Chartered status will help provide the recognition among colleagues and those within the sector that I’m capable of delivering sound woodland management decisions. This is especially important for me having not taken a traditional route to forest management. I trained as a primate behavioural ecologist only gradually becoming more involved with forestry through a succession of jobs involving woodland surveying and management in the UK. Becoming a member will allow me to keep up to speed with the latest thinking and developments in UK Forestry.
As an Associate member the desire to achieve full membership is a strong positive force for continued learning about forestry. For example, I’ve recently completed training for assessment for bats, continuous cover forestry and will shortly be undertaking the Forest Industry Safety Accord (FISA) training for Forest Works Manager and Main Contractor Management. As well as helping fulfil CPD requirements this helps me to become more qualified and knowledgeable as I work towards chartered status.
The emphasis on developing critical thinking is also very important as the ability to reflect on management decisions is very important within woodland management; an area where there is often more than one way to solve the same problem.
Working within a wildlife trust means I have strong ecological and conservation awareness when appraising woodlands. These skills are important for safeguarding well managed woodlands and the species they support but they must be used in conjunction with sound forestry best practice. A healthy, biodiverse, woodland is a well-managed one. The emphasis of the ICF on research evidence and learning is important to me as it helps me ensure I make the best possible decisions when planning woodland management.
The pride associated with being able to use the famous MICFor letter after my name. Membership is rightly prized as it demonstrates to clients, colleagues and the public my capabilities and experience within an increasingly competitive sector.
Because of the long and impressive history as the authoritative voice on all forestry related matters. Also, because the people I’ve met through my work and respected as foresters or woodland managers have recommended joining. The recommendation of highly capable and competent people indicated to me the calibre of the people within ICF.
As well as demonstrating my continued commitment to the forestry industry, I believe that chartered status will be a strong foundation upon which to develop my career and build professional relationships based on trust and respect.
Being chartered reassures my clients that they are working with someone that has achieved industry recognition.
Being a member means I have people I can talk to about issues I want to know more about. Through the commitment to continued professional development, the Institute encourages me to better myself by learning more about the industry as…
Being chartered gives me professional recognition and reassurance to my clients of the quality they are seeking.
ICF Membership has provided me with the opportunity to learn from other professionals, to better understand the different pressures and opportunities within the wider industry.
Being chartered has enabled me to contribute to enhancing the overall status of the arboricultural profession, which is very important to me.
I feel that one of the most important parts of being a member is the need to undertake and record CPD.
Being chartered is a clear indication of my values.
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