The Forestry Commission is looking for new volunteer members to serve on its Forestry and Woodlands Advisory Committees (FWAC) in England. It is an excellent opportunity for Chartered Members to get involved and help to shape the way the sector leads in terms of protection, improvement, and expansion of woodlands.
They are looking to appoint individuals with expert knowledge and a passionate interest in forestry and woodlands issues and are keen to increase the number of younger professionals on the committees. Where a younger person cannot commit to serving an initial three year term the Forestry Commission is prepared to consider a lesser term of two years.
The FWACs also have a role in advising on ‘disputed cases’ in respect to new woodland creation and Felling Licence applications. The Committees consist of an independent Chair and up to 11 volunteer members who bring a range of interests to the Committee.
There are a total of nine FWACs across five Forest Services Areas: Yorkshire and the North East, the North West and West Midlands, the East and East Midlands, the South East and London, and the South West.
Each Committee normally meets three times a year, including occasional joint meetings of Committees within the Forest Services Area where two operate. There are occasional ad hoc meetings of Committees, depending on local demands. Members should, therefore, be in a position to be able to volunteer up to five days per annum on FWAC work.
The process requires the completion of the expression of interest form below by an individual or by a nominating organization. This should be returned with the candidate’s Curriculum Vitae by 30th September 2019. If the expression of interest is returned by the nominating organisation they should confirm that the candidate has agreed to be nominated. If the form is returned by the candidate, then they should provide confirmation if their application is supported by a nominating organisation.
Applications will be accepted by post or email commissioners@forestrycommission.gov.uk
Download an Expression of Interest Form here.
More information is available on the Forestry Commission website: https://www.gov.uk/government/groups/forestry-and-woodlands-advisory-committees
