Membership

Founded in 1925 as the Society of Foresters and granted a Royal Charter in 1982, the Institute of Chartered Foresters has over 1000 members both in the UK and overseas.

ICF membership embraces the full range of professionals involved in forestry and arboriculture and related disciplines – in the private sector, central and local government, research councils and universities and colleges. The Institute provides services to assist members including support and promotion of the work of foresters and arboriculturists; information and guidance to the public and industry about the specific expertise offered by those in the profession; and training and educational advice to students and professionals looking to build upon their experience.

Once you achieve Professional membership of the ICF you can practice as a Chartered Forester or Chartered Arboriculturist, giving you a competitive advantage over non-members in recognition of your success. See Routes to Membership.

As a Licensed Member Body of the Society for the Environment the Institute is able to offer Corporate members of the ICF the opportunity to apply to become a Chartered Environmentalist.

Membership Grades

Chartered Membership of the ICF is internationally recognised as a badge of excellence.

Membership benefits include The Chartered Forester magazine, recruitment services, priority opportunities to book for ICF National Conferences and Field Tours and subscriptions to the Institute's acclaimed journal Forestry, structured Continuing Professional Development (CPD) assessment and, above all, the opportunity to join a truly sustainable profession which shapes our environment. Whether you are a student, an experienced practitioner, or simply have an interest in the management and enhancement of trees and woodlands in all their forms, the ICF welcomes you to its membership:

Student Member
Those who are studying in higher education.

Associate Member
Those who have completed their initial professional education, and are now working towards chartered status.

Professional Member
Recognises members' technical and professional competence and confers Chartered status.

Fellowship
This is awarded to senior members of ICF recognising their talent, expertise and particular contribution to the profession.

Supporter
This is open to individuals with an interest in forestry and arboriculture and who wish to support the ICF.