Course Overview
Bridging the gap between environmental guidance and operational delivery, the course will help you
1. Understand the implications of NRW's latest protected species guidance (May ’26) and how it may influence forestry planning and operations in Wales.
2. Explore how current Forestry Commission and Natural England species guidance is applied in England and identify areas of commonality and difference.
3. Learn practical approaches to assessing and managing risks associated with protected species, priority habitats, and designated sites.
4. Work through real forestry case studies to understand how guidance can be applied proportionately and effectively in operational situations.
5. Develop systems and decision-making processes that help reduce delays, improve compliance, and strengthen relationships with regulators and stakeholders.
About your trainer, Steve Knight
With over 30 years of experience, including two decades in government bodies, the Forestry Commission England, Wales and Natural Resources Wales, Steve Knight is a seasoned leader in land management and conservation.
Now leading Clunside Forestry and Ecology Services, and armed with forestry and ecology degrees, Steve excels in sustainable woodland management and forest design.
He also teaches environmental courses, provides specialised training in forest management and ecology, climate change and mitigation, and has led teams in designing woodland management plans for England and Wales.
Steve Knight has also designed and lectured at degree level on environmental topics such as Woodland ecology, EIA, taxonomy, climate change, woodland management and conservation.