Branch out for forestry fun in Balloch

Those who are thinking about a career in forestry, woodland or conservation are being given a unique opportunity to meet businesses and individuals from these industries at a showcase and fun day in Inverness. 

The event, called Branch Out, will be held at the Scottish School of Forestry in Balloch, Inverness on Saturday 16th September where up to 20 exhibitors will take part. 

The event will cover a wide range of areas including commercial forestry, woodland management, recreation, conservation, renewable energy and local produce.  Exhibitors will demonstrate their products and there will be a lot of hands on activities and competitions for adults and children to make the event lively and interactive.

Amazing displays of tree climbing will be carried out by professional tree surgeons from the Arboriculture Association, and if people bring their own mountain bikes, they can have a go on the Forestry Commission's North Shore off-road bicycle course.  There will be demonstrations from championship chainsaw carvers, a bagpipe maker, an axe thrower, tree fellers, forestry machines and a log house builder.

The Scottish School of Forestry has a new state of the art wood-chip heating plant constructed from locally sourced wood, and a classroom which will be officially opened soon. 

The event is organised by Careers Scotland Highlands and Islands, Scottish School of Forestry and Lantra, the sector skills council for environmental and land-based industries, who are all members of the Forest Education Initiative, Highland Cluster Group.  The event aims to increase the understanding and appreciation of the environmental, social and economic potential of trees, woodlands and forests. 

Roger Muhl, chair of Highland Forest Education Initiative said:  "Forests and woodlands form a major component of the Highland landscape and are a valuable resource in providing a wide range of environmental and economic benefits to the region. The use of woodlands for education, recreation and nature conservation is increasing year on year and this, together with rapidly increasing production of timber for industry, offers a diverse range of employment opportunities for local people."

Fiona MacInnes, Careers Scotland adviser said:  "Already, skills gaps are being identified in the forestry sector.  Our aim is to broaden horizons, so that people considering their options are aware of the variety of interesting and worthwhile careers in forestry and related work."

The event is free and people of all ages are welcome to come along, starting at 10am and finishing around 4 pm.