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Tree Lady Talks: Ancient Woodland, Coppicing, and the Future of British Woods

This episode explores how Britain’s ancient woodlands evolved from bustling, managed landscapes into the darker, neglected woods many people know today — and why restoring woodland management could be key to biodiversity, timber security, and human wellbeing. It works because it pairs nostalgia with hope: listeners get a vivid sense of loss, then a practical path forward.Episode summaryTree Lady talks with Luke B, author of Ancient and Senior Advisor for Trees and Woodlands with the National Trust, about the deep history of British woods and the urgent need to bring woodland management back. The conversation covers ancient woodland definitions, coppicing, wood pasture, selective felling, deer pressure, ash dieback, plantations on ancient woodland sites, and the cultural value of reconnecting people with woods.

Key topics covered

• What qualifies as ancient woodland in England, Wales, and Scotland

• How wood pasture, coppicing, and pollarding shaped historic woodlands

• Why today’s dark, dense woods are a relatively recent development

• How coppice restoration creates vital habitat for butterflies, birds, and other wildlife

• Why coppicing is culturally important but economically difficult at scale

• The role of continuous cover forestry and selective felling

• Horse logging and low-impact timber extraction methods

• How plantations on ancient woodland sites can be restored

• The impact of deer browsing on woodland regeneration

• Ash dieback, ecological change, and opportunities for regeneration

• Why native lime trees are a living link to deep woodland history

• The future of woodland culture, local timber, and human connection to nature

Notable moments

• Luke shares how stories like Robin Hood, Star Wars, and The Lord of the Rings drew him into the woods as a child.

• The discussion explains that many ancient woods were once open, busy, and highly managed rather than dark and untouched.

• Coppicing is described as a habitat engine: different regrowth stages support different species at different times.

• Luke explains that most coppice products are likely to remain luxury items, so broader subsidy and support are needed.

• The episode highlights the value of restoring neglected ancient woods and removing conifers to let native woodland life return.

• The conversation closes on a vision of woods that are alive with people, wildlife, and new woodland culture.

GuestLuke B — Senior Advisor for Trees and Woodlands, National Trust; author of AncientTakeawayAncient woodlands are not museum pieces. They are living systems that need active, sensitive management to support wildlife, people, and the next generation of woodland culture.Suggested quote

Copy

“The wood is the special thing — the trees come and go, and it’s the woodland ecosystem that we need to look after.”

Resources mentioned

• Ancient by Luke B

• The Wood Age by Roland Ennos

• Kathy Willis, Good Nature

Keywordsancient woodland, coppicing, wood pasture, selective felling, woodland restoration, biodiversity, ash dieback, deer management, native lime, timber security, nature connection

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Summary

In this episode of Tree Lady Talks, Sharon discusses the newly released handbook on UK urban tree allometry with experts Joe Fennell and Luke Fay. The conversation covers the importance of understanding tree growth data, the process of data collection and cleaning, and the practical applications of this data in landscape design. The handbook aims to provide a comprehensive overview of tree characteristics, including mature tree dimensions and predictive models for tree growth, emphasizing the need for standardized data in urban forestry. In this conversation, Luke Fay and Joe Fennell discuss the importance of tree data standards and the opportunities for utilizing tree data in various applications, including local government feasibility studies and evaluating government funding for tree planting. They emphasize the need for more comprehensive data collection methods and the potential for remote sensing to enhance tree valuation. The conversation also touches on practical applications of tree growth models and the future directions for tree data collection, highlighting the significance of evidence-based approaches in arboriculture.

Takeaways

The handbook provides essential data on urban tree growth.
Understanding tree dimensions is crucial for effective management.
Data cleaning standardizes various tree measurement methods.
Mature tree characteristics can inform landscape design.
Predictive models help estimate tree growth and dimensions.
The data is based on actual observations from the UK.
Variability in tree growth must be considered in predictions.
The handbook includes statistical models for tree characteristics.
Collaboration among professionals enhances data collection efforts.
Future tree planting must consider mature canopy sizes. The growing conditions and management affect tree data significantly.
Tree data standards are crucial for consistent data collection.
There are opportunities to predict tree growth using existing data.
Local governments can utilize tree data for feasibility studies.
Growth curves are essential for understanding long-term tree growth.
Remote sensing can enhance tree valuation and ecosystem service calculations.
Standardizing data collection methods is vital for future analysis.
The industry has a wealth of data that can be better utilized.
Funding is necessary to advance tree data research.
Collaboration and data sharing can benefit environmental planning.

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Summary

In this episode of Tree Lady Talks, Sharon interviews Henry Kuppen, a tree ambassador from the Netherlands, about the concept of 'tree guests'—a reframing of pests and diseases that affect trees. Henry discusses the importance of biodiversity in managing tree health, particularly in relation to the oak processionary moth. The conversation explores various management techniques, the ecological impact of these pests, and the legal and ethical considerations surrounding tree management. The episode emphasizes the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the need for a more holistic approach to arboriculture. In this conversation, Sharon and Henry Kuppen explore the complex relationships between microorganisms, invasive species, and human impact on ecosystems. They discuss the role of trade and travel in spreading diseases like Xylella, the importance of native versus non-native species, and the need for a shift in perspective from an ego-centric view of ecosystems to one of acceptance and understanding. The conversation emphasizes the importance of biodiversity and the need for a more holistic approach to managing tree guests and other species in our environment.

Takeaways

Henry Kuppen is now a tree ambassador, focusing on promoting the importance of trees.
The term 'tree guests' reframes pests and diseases as natural components of tree ecosystems.
Biodiversity is crucial for managing tree health and resilience against pests.
The oak processionary moth poses risks primarily to human health rather than tree health.
Management techniques for pests should be targeted and specific to minimize ecological impact.
Chemical solutions are not the only option; natural predators should be considered.
Legal standards in tree management are evolving to prioritize ecological balance.
Invasive species require careful management to protect native ecosystems.
Understanding the food chain can help in accepting tree guests as part of nature.
The conversation highlights the responsibility of humans in declining biodiversity. Microorganisms play a crucial role in ecosystems and can spread diseases.
Human activities, such as trade and travel, significantly impact the rise of invasive species.
The increase in pests and diseases is linked to climate change and loss of natural predators.
Xylella poses a significant risk to various tree species, particularly olives and grapes.
Native species should be prioritized in rural areas, while urban areas can accommodate a wider variety of species.
Understanding the life cycles of tree guests can foster respect and acceptance rather than eradication.
Ecosystem management should focus on ecological balance rather than human-centric views.
Education and research are vital for effective biosecurity measures.
Acceptance of tree guests can lead to a richer understanding of biodiversity.
A shift in perspective is necessary to address the challenges posed by invasive species.

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Paul Chatterton is a writer, researcher and campaigner. He is Professor of Urban Futures in the School of Geography at the University of Leeds and is currently Director of the University's Sustainable Cities Group which launched the ground breaking MSc Sustainable Cities. Paul is also co-founder and resident of the award winning low impact housing co-operative Lilac and helped set up local civic groups Leeds Commuity Homes and Kirkstall Valley Development Trust. His recent books include Low Impact Living and Unlocking Sustainable Cities with Pluto Press. He is also co-founder of the public charity 'Antipode' dedicated to research and scholarship in radical geography

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Dinah Bornat Session Chair

Director ZCD Architects

Dinah is an expert on child friendly cities and has researched and published extensively on the subject. She is a Mayor's Design Advocate for the Mayor of London, a design review panel member for Harrow and Hounslow Councils, a Wise Friend for Urban Design London and a member of the Hackney Regeneration Design Advice Group.

As well as the GLA she has worked closely with local authorities across the capital, including Hackney, Tower Hamlets, LLDC and Islington. At present the practice is working on a number of major and smaller scale regeneration projects, contributing to the design as well carrying out their pioneering children and youth engagement work.

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Dinah is an expert on child friendly cities and has researched and published extensively on the subject. She is a Mayor's Design Advocate for the Mayor of London, a design review panel member for Harrow and Hounslow Councils, a Wise Friend for Urban Design London and a member of the Hackney Regeneration Design Advice Group.

As well as the GLA she has worked closely with local authorities across the capital, including Hackney, Tower Hamlets, LLDC and Islington. At present the practice is working on a number of major and smaller scale regeneration projects, contributing to the design as well carrying out their pioneering children and youth engagement work. She is a Director at ZCD Architects

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Ed is a civil engineer and graduate of Imperial College. He has a Masters Degree in Hydraulic Engineering from the Universidad National Autonoma de Mexico.

He is a Vice President of the Institution of Civil Engineers which is now 200 years old and has a global membership of 92,000 professionals.

Ed is a Senior Director of Expedition Engineering and was instrumental in the growth of Expedition from a “back-bedroom start-up” to Building Magazine’s Engineering Consultant of the Year in 2011.

He is known as an innovative designer specializing in complex multi-disciplinary and regeneration projects. He was Expedition’s Director responsible for the London 2012 Velodrome and the Infinity Bridge in Stockton.

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Picture the scene.

During lockdown, Noel enters an empty restaurant, empty but for restaurant tables upon which are television monitors of many interviews streaming on a loop, and on the far wall, banks of speaker systems. The 'Culture' bart has been set up with virtual drinks and a special 'Literary Corner' for readings from some of the authors involved in Season 1, again via TV monitors.
However, tonight Noel, although he doesn't know it, is walking into a trap. Thinking he has engineered a huge suprise for the Tree Lady Talks host, his wife Sharon, he is unaware that she has actually turned the tables on him, and he will be doing the hosting instead whilst she mingles with the monitors and generally has a good time!
The Master of Ceromonies awaits their arrival - hopefully he can busk his way through the evening and link up the highlights which include contributions from John Parker of the Arboricultural Association, Jon Ryan LBI, Richard Collins, Darren Morcroft, John Tucker, Punam Krishan and many more.

Will he pull it off? Tune in to find out! 

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Ed is a civil engineer and graduate of Imperial College. He has a Masters Degree in Hydraulic Engineering from the Universidad National Autonoma de Mexico.

He is a Vice President of the Institution of Civil Engineers which is now 200 years old and has a global membership of 92,000 professionals.

Ed is a Senior Director of Expedition Engineering and was instrumental in the growth of Expedition from a “back-bedroom start-up” to Building Magazine’s Engineering Consultant of the Year in 2011.

He is known as an innovative designer specializing in complex multi-disciplinary and regeneration projects. He was Expedition’s Director responsible for the London 2012 Velodrome and the Infinity Bridge in Stockton.

In 2009, Ed and the two other owners of Expedition set up a social enterprise called the Useful Simple Trust and gave the company to the employees. He is now a Trustee of the UST, which has a number of award-winning companies specialising in Engineering, Communications Design, Architecture, Education and Sustainability.

He is a Royal Academy Visiting Professor of Innovation and a member of the UK’s i3P Strategic Leadership Group which is focused on innovating across the built environment.

He co-created cross industry initiatives including: the Constructionarium, the Get It Right Initiative and the Expedition Workshed.

Along the way he appeared in 35 Television programs on engineering and apparently has a fan in Japan!

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Yvonne is an urban greening and climate resilience strategist and advises governments internationally on urban greening. Yvonne is currently collaborating on the development and implementation of Green Riyadh with the Riyadh Development Authority. Green Riyadh aims to create 3300 new parks and gardens, and to plant 7.5 million trees by 2030.
 She has advised local and state governments around Australia, having led the City of Melbourne’s Urban Forest and Ecology team for several years, and internationally on how to green cities and adapt to extreme climate conditions. She is impact focused and helps governments to accelerate policy change and implementation

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Yvonne is an urban greening and climate resilience strategist and advises governments internationally on urban greening. Yvonne is currently collaborating on the development and implementation of Green Riyadh with the Riyadh Development Authority. Green Riyadh aims to create 3300 new parks and gardens, and to plant 7.5 million trees by 2030.
 She has advised local and state governments around Australia, having led the City of Melbourne’s Urban Forest and Ecology team for several years, and internationally on how to green cities and adapt to extreme climate conditions. She is impact focused and helps governments to accelerate policy change and implementation

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Howard Gray is the PR & Specification Consultant at Green Blue Urban

Howard spends much of his time travelling the country. He carries out CPD presentations and site visits to assist contractors with their tree planting projects ensuring GreenBlue benefits are understood and his enthusiasm for this is legendary.

With nearly 40 years of experience planting trees in urban settings, he is committed to seeing every tree getting the best possible opportunity to attain its potential.

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Howard has travelled extensively for the past few years, educating and presenting superior tree establishment methods to wide audiences from many different disciplines. Widely recognised as a passionate urban tree enthusiast within the UK.

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In this episode of Tree Lady Talks, Sharon interviews Zazie Todd, an animal behavior expert, about her book 'Bark' which focuses on understanding and helping fearful, anxious, and reactive dogs. They discuss the outdated training methods that can harm dogs, the importance of recognizing signs of anxiety, and the benefits of positive reinforcement training. Zazie emphasizes the need for dog guardians to understand their pets' emotions and the various causes of fear and anxiety, including genetics and early experiences. The conversation also covers practical tips for managing separation anxiety, the role of medication, and the significance of routine in a dog's life. Zazie encourages dog owners to seek help from professionals and highlights the ongoing research in animal behavior that continues to enhance our understanding of dogs as sentient beings. 

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The Tree Lady talks to Jonathan Drori CBE about his book 'Around The World In 80 Trees'. Here is a snip from his CV:-

An experienced chairman, trustee and adviser, Jon helps organisations to develop strategy, drive performance and engage new audiences with services that they'll value. He is unusual in bridging disparate fields; public engagement and outreach, education, governance, technology, media, science and culture, and in being able to make valuable, senior connections across them.

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The Tree Lady talks to Jonathan Drori CBE about his book 'Around The World In 80 Trees'. Here is a snip from his CV:-

An experienced chairman, trustee and adviser, Jon helps organisations to develop strategy, drive performance and engage new audiences with services that they'll value. He is unusual in bridging disparate fields; public engagement and outreach, education, governance, technology, media, science and culture, and in being able to make valuable, senior connections across them.

Buy the book on Amazon

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Henry Kuppen, Director Terra Nostra,  Knowledge Centre for Trees and Soils.

Henry Kuppen is an arboricultural consultant from the Netherlands. He started his education in forestry and began his professional career as a tree surgeon at Copijn Tree Surgeons in 1983. In 1989 he won the Dutch national tree climbing championship, and in 1994 he started his own arboricultural company in the south of the Netherlands . Based on his passion for culture influenced pleached tree monuments he then also started a pleached tree nursery.
Here he talks to Sharon about tree pests and disease management in the  Netherlands, and this has bought fresh thinking on new landscape design. They also discuss the wonderful Linden squares!  Read his full biography here.

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Henry Kuppen, Director Terra Nostra,  Knowledge Centre for Trees and Soils.

Henry Kuppen is an arboricultural consultant from the Netherlands. He started his education in forestry and began his professional career as a tree surgeon at Copijn Tree Surgeons in 1983. In 1989 he won the Dutch national tree climbing championship, and in 1994 he started his own arboricultural company in the south of the Netherlands . Based on his passion for culture influenced pleached tree monuments he then also started a pleached tree nursery.
Here he talks to Sharon about tree pests and disease management in the  Netherlands, and this has bought fresh thinking on new landscape design. They also discuss the wonderful Linden squares!  Read his full biography here.

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Part Two of this weeks special podcast episode featuring John Tucker, David Rose, Joe Coles, and Olivia Ransome.

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The Woodland Trust

The Tree Lady Talks  - - Woodland Trust Special

In this two-part edition of the podcast, Sharon talks to no less than seven interviewees about their role in working with or for the charity.  

Part One.

Woodland Trust Website

Facebook

Youtube

Stand Up For Trees

Darren Moorcroft - CEO

Darren has been responsible for: the Trust’s acquisition strategy – growing the estate to c29,000 hectares across the UK; expanding our woodland creation with schools, local communities and partners to over 4 million trees/annum; and our restoration of over 2,000 ha/year of ancient woodlands. He now leads the UK’s largest woodland nature conservation charity, with over 500,000 members and supporters. Read Darrens 2019 Biog here

John Tucker - Director of Woodland Creation

Chartered forester with 40 years experience of multi purpose forestry, John has  worked for Woodland Trust in a variety of forest management roles since 1994 and for the last 11 years have focused on woodland creation work with farmers and landowners across the UK. He has held a variety of technical committee appointments including CLA Forestry Committee, FC Regional Advisory Committee and the FC Woodland Carbon Task Force.

His proudest achievement has been to play a small part in reconnecting farmers with trees and foresters with farmers.

Joe Coles - Urban Programme Leader

Joe leads the Woodland Trust’s Urban programme in the UK, encouraging residents and Local Authorities to protect and enhance the urban forest for the environment, people and nature. With a background in Environmental Science, Landscape Architecture, nature conservation and sustainability, he draws on his experience of civil service and council employment to help facilitate collaboration between citizens and governing bodies. “With a greater understanding of the benefits of trees to environment and society, and respecting the passion people have for them, we can ensure the future of our urban landscapes are greener and more sustainable”

David Rose - Farmeco Chairman

Chairman of Farmeco Community Care, a community benefit society, a separate business that rents land and buildings from the main farm. Its core purpose is to reconnect people with land, food and the environment. Read David's full biog here.

Featuring are also :-

Olivia Ransom, EYFS Teacher at Poplar Farm School, 

Naomi Tilley, Woodland Trust Lead Campaigner

Alex Lidis, Volunteer for the Woodland Trust

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Soundbites from the Woodland Trust Chief Executive Darren Moorcroft, Director of Woodland Creation John Tucker, Street Tree guru Joe Coles, and Farm Eco (working with the Woodland Trust) David Rose, prior to the full episode airing from the 27th November.  

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Global Tree Health

The Tree Lady Talks  - - to Dr David Coyle

Dr. David Coyle is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Forestry and Environmental Conservation at Clemson University.  His Extension Forestry program focuses on forest and tree health and invasive species management in forests and managed landscapes across the Southeast. Previously, Dave ran the Southern Regional Extension Forestry – Forest Health and Invasive Species program, which provided hands-on training, electronic resources, and other services pertaining to management of native and invasive forest insects, plants, and diseases to forestry professionals throughout the southeastern U.S.

Follow Dave on :-

Facebook: Southern Forest Health and Invasive Species Outreach & Education page: https://www.facebook.com/southernforesthealth

Facebook: Southern Tree and Forest Health Diagnostics page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SouthernTreeHealthDiagnostics

Full biog on the SHA website

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Dr. David Coyle is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Forestry and Environmental Conservation at Clemson University in South Carolina.  His Extension Forestry program focuses on forest and tree health and invasive species management in forests and managed landscapes across the Southeast. Dave is a big proponent of using social media as a teaching tool for forest health, and you can find Dave’s forest health outreach work on Twitter (@drdavecoyle) or Instagram (drdavecoyle) where he regularly posts about invasive pests and all things related to trees.  Here's his soundbite from this weeks Tree Lady Talks podcast.

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Tree Lady Talks, Episode 10 in discussion with Pete Wharton, founder of Wharton Natural Infrastructure Consultancy, a multi-disciplinary business. Sharon and Pete discuss what it's like building a business through an economic crisis, people management in unprecedented times of furlough, and virtual team-building, including Zoom meetings and managing staff mental health through difficult periods during this pandemic. A fascinating insight from one of the industry's leading professionals.

Follow Pete on :-
Facebook: @WhartonNIC
Instagram: @Wharton_nic
LinkedIn: @Whartonnic
Twitter: @WhartonNIC

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Summary

In this episode of Tree Lady Talks, Sharon discusses the transformative 3-30-300 rule with experts Cecil Konijnendijk and Dirk Voets. They explore the importance of urban greening, the scientific methodology behind the rule, and its global impact on city planning and public health. The conversation highlights community engagement, the challenges faced by urban foresters, and the need for innovative funding mechanisms to support green initiatives. The episode concludes with a vision of a greener future where nature and urban life coexist harmoniously.

Takeaways

The 3-30-300 rule emphasizes 30% canopy cover and 300 meters to green spaces.
Urban greening is essential for public health and climate adaptation.
Satellite imagery is used to assess tree coverage and park accessibility.
Community engagement is crucial for successful urban forestry initiatives.
Cities like Manchester are leading examples of livable urban environments.
The 3-30-300 rule has gained traction internationally, influencing policy.
Cultural sensitivities must be considered in urban planning.
Quantifying ecosystem services is vital for demonstrating the benefits of trees.
Funding mechanisms need to be restructured to support urban greening.
Retrofitting cities can create more green spaces despite existing infrastructure.

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Pete Wharton, of Wharton Natural Infrastructure Consultants, discusses the highs and  lows, and also the challenges of running a multi-disciplinary practice. Full episode out now!

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Including today:-
Dr James Canton, Author of 'The Oak Papers'.
Stephen Taylor, Author of 'Oak: one tree, three years, fifty paintings '.
Irina Antonets  Designer, Artist,Illustrator and creator of the Humanum Lignum project
Dr Gabriel Hemery author, tree photographer, and silvologist

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Soundbite from this weeks podcast - an Art & Literature Special, featuring Dr James Canton, author of 'The Oak Papers', Artist Stephen Taylor, author of 'Oak: one tree, three years, fifty paintings ', and author Dr Gabriel Hemery, with a great contribution from Irina Antonets  of Humanum Lignum fame  (full episode only).
Out on Friday October 30th. For more information on these people go to the company website - see the VideoBite at on Youtube. 

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Sue James trained at the Architectural Association and worked in private practice in West Wales.  In parallel she has provided consultancy services with a focus on the public realm and is a founding member of the Trees and Design Action Group. She has also advised Ecobuild (now Futurebuild) on content for the conference and seminar programme for many years. In this clip she describes her dream scenario on Tree Lady Talks.

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Sue James trained at the Architectural Association and worked in private practice in West Wales.  In parallel she has provided consultancy services with a focus on the public realm and is a founding member of the Trees and Design Action Group. She has also advised Ecobuild (now Futurebuild) on content for the conference and seminar programme for many years. In this clip she describes her dream scenario on Tree Lady Talks.

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Tree Aid helps the drylands of Africa to lift themselves out of poverty and protect their environment.
We speak to their Chair, Shireen Chambers MBE, Georges Bazongo, Operations Director, and fundraisers  Bell Martin & James Ogilvie about the work done by this fabulous charity.

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TREE AID helps people in the drylands of Africa to lift themselves out of poverty and protect their environment. People here live in some of the toughest conditions on earth and trees are essential to their survival. Trees provide nutrition, generate income and help to create a healthy environment.TREE AID works with local communities to help them protect and grow trees, for themselves and for future generation.
In this podcast episode, Sharon interviews Shireen Chambers MBE, Georges Bazongo, and Bell Martin about the ways in which they support the charity. 
A fabulous listen in every way! Full episode out from Friday 16th October.

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Vikki Bengtsson is an ecologist and has worked professionally with nature conservation since 1992. Up until 2003, she worked in England and now works primarily in Sweden. Vikki has worked throughout her career with issues relating to practical management and restoration of ancient trees and wood pastures. She also trains arborists, landscape architects, site managers and planners in the care and management of ancient trees. She was project manager for the European VETree and VETcert projects developing training and a certification system for veteran tree professionals across Europe.

Xander ‘AntBoy’ Johnston, a young naturalist, currently at high school, who specialises in wood ants and rare and endangered invertebrates found in the Scottish highlands. Xander has recorded over 800 hours volunteering in the last 4 years, and has become a respected expert in the field of entomology. Xander shares his knowledge and his passion for conservation by creating videos for his YouTube channel (www.xanderjo.co.uk).He has also appeared on a number of occasions on national TV, including the BBC watches, Countryfile and Blue Peter, helping to highlight the importance of insects to the nation.

 Xander strongly believes that “Insects are the foundation of the ecosystem, without them nothing would survive, including us!”

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Vikki Bengtsson discusses veteran trees and ecology to Tree Lady Talks as part of this double-header, leading into Xander Johnston, 'Ant Boy' talking about all things Ants! 

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Xander Johnston, 'Ant Boy' as he is known to Countryfile, Springwatch and Autumnwatch viewers, talks about all things Ants to Tree Lady Talks, as part of a double header with Vikki Bengtsson who discusses veteran trees and ecology.

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Summary

This conversation explores the intricate politics surrounding street trees, focusing on their historical significance, community engagement, and the ongoing challenges in urban forestry. Camilla Allen, a landscape architect and environmental historian, discusses the Sheffield street tree crisis, the role of trees as living memorials, and the importance of public advocacy and education in tree management. The dialogue emphasizes the need for collaboration between professionals and communities to ensure the sustainable future of urban trees. Relevant papers, as Camilla touched on regarding the sycamore gap, are here 

Crow, Jim ‘The tale of a tree: An archaeological history of Sycamore Gap’, Current Archaeology, December 2023

Ferguson, Bruce K. ‘Symbolic meanings of ordinary city streets and their trees’ Frontiers in Psychology 2023

Hanscam, Emily and Holtorf, Cornelius ‘Rooted in the Future, A cultural ecology of the Sycamore Gap Tree’ Current Archaeology, December 2023.

Chapters Rough Timings

00:00 Introduction to the Politics of Street Trees
02:46 Sheffield's Street Tree Crisis
05:53 Historical Perspectives on Tree Planting
09:02 The Multifaceted Role of Trees
11:49 Living Memorials and Their Significance
18:00 The Politics of Tree Management
23:58 Community Engagement and Tree Advocacy
29:50 Cultural Significance of Trees
36:02 The Future of Street Trees
41:50 The Charter for Street Trees

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Johan Östberg is an associate professor at the Department of Landscape Architecture, at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences in Alnarp, where he´s been working since 2007. Johan has a M.Sc. in Landscape Planning from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (2008), a PhD in Landscape Planning also from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (2013) and has been working as a researcher and teacher since 2014. 

Apart from his academic career he is also and ISA Certified Arborist and active as a consultant, where he is running a consultant networking comprising of consultants from a different profession, working together to create management plans for larger tree populations in Sweden. Here is the link Johan spoke about in his interview with regard to a neighbourhood masterplan.

Cecil Konijnendijk has been an urban forestry researcher, educator, advisor, and speaker for over 25 years. His passion has taken him to different parts of the globe. Cecil’s publications have included books such as ‘The Forest and the City: the cultural landscape of urban woodland’ and the Routledge Handbook of Urban Forestry. He co-founded the scientific journal ‘Urban Forestry & Urban Greening’ and was also a key force behind the annual European Forum on Urban Forestry. Since 2016 has been a professor of urban forestry at the University of British Columbia, Canada. This summer he relocated to Barcelona and set up the Nature Based Solutions Institute together with Johan Östberg 

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Johan discusses how we can make sure nature is in the heart of our urban areas with colleague Cecil Konijnendijk. Here's his soundbite.

Johan Östberg is an associate professor at the Department of Landscape Architecture, at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences in Alnarp, where he´s been working since 2007. Johan has a M.Sc. in Landscape Planning from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (2008), a PhD in Landscape Planning also from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (2013) and has been working as a researcher and teacher since 2014. 

Apart from his academic career he is also and ISA Certified Arborist and active as a consultant, where he is running a consultant networking comprising of consultants from a different profession, working together to create management plans for larger tree populations in Sweden. 

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Cecil discusses how we can make sure nature is in the heart of our urban areas with colleague Johan Ostberg. Here's his soundbite. 

Cecil Konijnendijk has been an urban forestry researcher, educator, advisor, and speaker for over 25 years. His passion has taken him to different parts of the globe. Cecil’s publications have included books such as ‘The Forest and the City: the cultural landscape of urban woodland’ and the Routledge Handbook of Urban Forestry. He co-founded the scientific journal ‘Urban Forestry & Urban Greening’ and was also a key force behind the annual European Forum on Urban Forestry. Since 2016 has been a professor of urban forestry at the University of British Columbia, Canada. This summer he relocated to Barcelona and set up the Nature Based Solutions Institute together with Johan Östberg 

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Featuring three specialists and including contributions from members of the public:-

• Matilda Van Den Bosch, a trained physician and a PhD in landscape planning and public health. Currently, she is an assistant professor at The University of British Columbia in Canada with a joint appointment between the Faculties of Medicine and Forestry. She is the primary editor of the Oxford Textbook of Nature and Public Health, published by the Oxford University Press in 2018. Click here for the link to her published paper.
• Dr Punam Krishan, doctor, life coach and writer currently working as an NHS GP in Glasgow.  Senior clerical lecturer at the University of Glasgow. Trustee and Glasgow regional director for the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine. Click here for more about Punam.
• Clare Olver, Programmes Manager,Mersey Forest. Clare has been involved in land management for over 25 years, and having worked previously in the private sector, has wide-ranging experience of strategic land regeneration. Clare has an extensive knowledge of partnerships, organisations and landowners across North West England, and is a key player in delivery of the Northern Forest.  Click here for more information on the work at the Mersey Forest.

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Featuring three specialists and including contributions from members of the public:-

• Matilda Van Den Bosch, a trained physician and a PhD in landscape planning and public health. Currently, she is an assistant professor at The University of British Columbia in Canada with a joint appointment between the Faculties of Medicine and Forestry. She is the primary editor of the Oxford Textbook of Nature and Public Health, published by the Oxford University Press in 2018
• Dr Punam Krishan, doctor, life coach and writer currently working as an NHS GP in Glasgow.  Senior clerical lecturer at the University of Glasgow. Trustee and Glasgow regional director for the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.
• Clare Olver, Programmes Manager,Mersey Forest. Clare has been involved in land management for over 25 years, and having worked previously in the private sector, has wide-ranging experience of strategic land regeneration. Clare has an extensive knowledge of partnerships, organisations and landowners across North West England, and is a key player in delivery of the Northern Forest.

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Featuring Richard Collins, Director at Landvest Developments, and with contributions from Tracy Clarke of Tracy Clarke Tree Consultancy, Dr Suzy Cardy, Chartered Ecologist, Catherine Xavier of Guarda Landscape, Chartered Landscape Architect, and Joshua Daniels, Senior Site Manager at Wates Residential.

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‘Build, Build, Build’. But what does this mean for the natural environment? Listen to what happens, why and where things are heading in a time of change for planning.  We speak to Richard Collins, Director of Landvest Developments, and consultants who work in the industry – Tracy Clarke (Chartered Arboriculturist), Dr Suzy Cardy (Chartered Ecologist) and Catherine Xavier (Chartered Landscape architect). 

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Mima Letts is the Assistant Forester on the Chatsworth Estate in Derbyshire and also the Founder and Director of Tree Sparks. Mima studied Forestry at Bangor University after stumbling across the course when trying to work out what to do after school.
Lacey Rose grew up on the 53° N parallel in Labrador, Canada. Graduating from the University of New Brunswick in 2006 with a Bachelor of Science in Forestry, Lacey has been a Registered Professional Forester in Ontario since 2008. Listen to them as they talk with Sharon about their career, their hopes for the industry, and their journey so far

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Assistant Forester at Chatsworth House, Derbyshire. 

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County Forester at Renfrew, Ontario, Canada.

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In this conversation, Sharon interviews Jaroslav Kolarik, CEO of SafeTrees and member of the Arboriculture Academy in the Czech Republic. They discuss the role of the European Arboriculture Council (EAC) in promoting arboriculture in Europe and the certification programs offered by the EAC. They also talk about the importance of certification for arborists and the challenges of raising awareness and understanding of arboriculture among the general public. They touch on the development of European Arboriculture Standards and the upcoming conference in Prague. They also discuss the tree assessment and tree value calculation standards and the need for a unified approach to tree care. The conversation discusses the importance of valuing trees and the challenges in calculating their value. It emphasizes the need to consider the eco-benefits, property value, replacement value, wildlife value, and ecosystem value of trees. The conversation also touches on the role of municipalities in decision-making and the irreplaceable nature of trees. The interviewee highlights the importance of proper tree assessment and the need to consider the age structure, species structure, and maintenance history of trees. The conversation also explores the concept of canopy cover and the challenges of tree planting and aftercare. The interviewee shares insights into the arboricultural scene in the Czech Republic, including the strict legislation around tree felling and the growing number of arborists, including women, in the industry. The interview concludes with a discussion on the ambition of the European Arboricultural Council to spread the standards and promote tree care at a higher level.

Sound Bites

• "EAC was created to increase the level of Arboriculture in Europe and the first products were certification programs, European tree worker and European tree technician."
• "Certification is necessary to choose qualified companies or individuals for tree care work, especially when larger financial amounts are invested."
• "The certification for veteran tree specialist is a jewel among arboriculture qualifications, focusing on the care of irreplaceable old trees and the ecosystems connected to them."
• "In our cities, mostly in the cities in southern part of Europe without trees we are not going to survive really in the cities."
• "Just imagine that if we just consider the tree being represented only by let's say some replacement value but the replacement itself is going to happen within 60 years."
• "The first questions should not be about the value, about the money because that's only the last resort how to express the value of the trees."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Background

04:06
Promoting Arboriculture in Europe: The Role of the European Arboriculture Council

06:28
The Importance of Certification for Arborists

12:09
Developing European Arboriculture Standards

19:26
Understanding Tree Assessment

25:32
Valuing Trees Beyond Replacement Cost

27:18
Valuing Trees: Eco-Benefits and Property Value

28:47
Challenges in Tree Valuation and Replacement Value

31:13
Considerations for Proper Tree Assessment

32:43
Canopy Cover: Visualizing Tree Presence

45:14
Challenges and Best Practices in Tree Planting and Aftercare

50:28
The Growing Arboricultural Scene and Diversity in the Czech Republic

53:11
Spreading Tree Care Standards Across Europe

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On being Arboricultural Manager for the London Borough of Islington, heat mapping to create green space in essential areas, and his 'dream scenario'.

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Jon Ryan talks in this podcast about being a tree officer and why we need more tree planting where society needs trees most.

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A precis of this weeks interviewee, John Parker, is that he is  Technical Director at the Arboricultural Association, where he has worked since August 2019. He has more than ten years of experience in public sector tree management and from 2012-2019 was a member of the Executive Committee of the London Tree Officers Association, which he Chaired in 2016-18, and until 2019 was a Director of the National Association of Tree Officers, amongst a long list of experience which he goes into in further detail in todays Tree Lady Talks.  

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