About the event

An increasing number of people are choosing to invest their savings in the purchase of woodland, for the many recreational, ecological and physical benefits that owning such a space can bring. While there are an enormous number of practical issues to consider in the management of deciduous woodland - don’t let that put you off!

Our tutor, Ross Packman, has gained practical woodland management experience with the National Trust, and the Wildlife Trusts in both Surrey and the Isles of Scilly. He is keen to help guide you on your exciting journey.

On this one-day introductory course, the morning session will concentrate on everything from basic woodland ecology to applying for management grants. After an early lunch, we will then head out into the ancient woodland of Nower Wood, where we will observe habitat management in action. 

We realise that each parcel of land is unique, therefore we encourage attendees, prior to the course, to pass on any specific questions they may have, which we can then cover in a Q&A on the day.

This course is targeted at those who are thinking of investing in a small woodland or those who already have done so.

Tutor Profile – Ross Packman

With a varied background in marketing, journalism and outdoor adventure instruction, Ross retrained in environmental land management with the East Devon National Trust ranger team in 2012.

Joining Surrey Wildlife Trust (SWT)’s Countryside Team in 2017, Ross lead staff and volunteers in practical habitat works across the Trust’s 60+ reserves and sites, including the ancient woodland sites of Sheepleas, Staffhurst Wood and Norbury Park, as well as assisting with the Trust’s 400-strong herd of Belted Galloway cattle.

Joining the Education Team full-time in 2022, Ross is now an Engagement and Conservation Officer for the Wilder Schools project, encouraging local educators to improve biodiversity in their grounds and take more of their lessons outside.

Before joining SWT, Ross lead international volunteer groups in practical conservation works in Iceland and the Caribbean, as well as assisting with island recovery projects in the Isles of Scilly and the Outer Hebrides.

In addition to his conservation work, Ross is also a qualified Lowland Walking Leader and Paddlesports Instructor who enjoys hiking, swimming and eating in his spare time.