A brief history of the Institute of Chartered Foresters
The Institute of Chartered Foresters (ICF) was founded in 1925 as the Society of Foresters of Great Britain.
It became the Institute of Foresters in 1974 and was incorporated by Royal Charter in 1982, becoming the Institute of Chartered Foresters.
Its objectives have always been:
- the maintenance and improvement of the standards of practice and understanding of all aspects of forestry and arboriculture.
- the protection of the public interest and the promotion of the professional status of foresters and arboriculturists in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
The future of Professional Forestry and Arboriculture
Nearly a century after its establishment, the Institute of Chartered Foresters is the leading professional body for foresters and arboriculturists in the UK, providing platforms for professional learning and collaboration on the latest research, news and issues facing the sector.
The Institute now has over 2,000 members representing a wide range of roles in the sector – from forest managers to land agents. From those working in harvesting and marketing to those consultants working in multi-disciplinary teams. From arboriculturists and urban foresters to research scientists and academics.
The Institute is working with both industry and higher education institutes to promote forestry and arboricultural career paths to young people, in order to ensure the continued growth of this dynamic sector.
