Forest Research, in collaboration with universities and stakeholders, are actively engaged in furthering our understanding of climate change to influence government policy and practitioner guidance. In many instances, this involves the proactive involvement of land managers in projects and two-way knowledge sharing between researchers and practitioners. Here are some exciting opportunities to get involved with current climate change and resilience-focused research projects and initiatives across the UK.
Forest Research is leading a new Defra-funded Centre for Forest Protection research project, which aims to create a new catalogue of species mixtures with drought adaptation potential and provide updated guidance for policy and practitioners. To reach a consensus on the most promising species mixtures for drought adaptation, which will then be tested in trials, we are looking to capture the experiences and options of people with direct experience (past or present) of planting, managing or overseeing tree species mixtures.
To get involved and help shape future drought guidance, please complete our online survey by 31 October 2025.
Share your experiences of mixed species planting to help inform cutting-edge research trials and shape future UK forestry adaptation guidance
Low commitment – the survey should take about 15 minutes to complete
Join our project mailing list to be among the first to receive a new mixed species catalogue
The respected British Woodlands Survey was established in 2012 as an independent vehicle to gather evidence about the nations’ woodlands and those who care for them. In this latest edition, researchers want to hear from woodland owners and managers about their experiences, and of their hopes and fears for the future.
Environmental change is already altering the ecology of our woodlands, affecting timber prices and productivity, impacting financial sustainability and more. Do you think some of these impacts may be positive as well as negative? Do you think you need better financial support or advice? What are the biggest barriers you face in managing your woodland? Would you like to be better connected with others? Could information technology support you better? This is your chance to have a say!
The British Woodlands Survey 2025 (BWS2025) remains open until the end of August. Taking part is important for all woodland owners, forestry and land agents, forestry professionals, businesses, land-owning organisations, and others.
The British Woodland Survey offers a powerful vehicle for anyone who owns and manages woodlands in Britain to have a say and influence policy and practice
It is taken seriously by decision makers among our most influential environmental bodies and organisations, including government bodies
It’s an opportunity to share how you are affected and how you think we should plan to promote greater woodland resilience
Sylva Foundation and Forest Research are working in partnership to deliver Forest Lab, an innovative application on the myForest platform with supporting research projects that enable managers to collect and share data from their woodlands to help support environmental research and improve our understanding of resilience in a changing climate.
Projects explore a range of specific ecological condition subjects including Ips typographus, wildfire, tree species suitability, tree growth and acute oak decline (AOD).
To take part in Forest Lab, you need to set up a free account on the myForest platform and agree to the Engagement Agreement.
Collaborate with other woodland managers and scientists by participating in research projects
Access complimentary training and workshops
Help researchers improve our understanding of different issues affecting the resilience of UK forests
Help provide additional data to compliment the National Forest Inventory
