THE days of forestry being only for ‘burly, bearded lumberjacks’ are long gone. That's why Forestry Journal is this month launching a new series to celebrate the industry's modern-day 'Lumberjills'. 

'Women in Forestry' will showcase just that - the women who are working with the world's trees each and every day. From craftspeople to operators, researchers to planters, we want to shine a light on the heroines of our sector. 

Launched in March's edition of the magazine and across our online channels to coincide with International Women's Day, the feature will continue to prove that forestry is for everyone. 

READ THE FIRST OF THE SERIES: Women in Forestry: Forestry and Land Scotland's Victoria Potts

Victoria Potts is the first to feature in our series. Speaking of her experiences, the Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) craftsperson said: “It has been really enjoyable and really challenging, both mentally and physically. I have only been doing it for a year and a half, so I am still learning. 

“I really enjoy becoming good at something I never thought I’d be good at, and facing fears head on. That comes anywhere in this job.

“We drive on difficult terrain at times, we’re using chainsaws. I have my small trees ticket. I never thought I would love cutting trees down. That goes against why I came into this job, but the satisfaction I get out of pushing myself is what I enjoy.” 

Writing in March's edition of Forestry Journal, editor John McNee said: "It is important to highlight and celebrate the contribution of women across the industry if we want more to pursue it as a career. And we should.

"Forestry has a skills shortage that is only predicted to get worse between now and 2030.

Forestry Journal: Ros Wardman has recently told of her experiences in a bid to encourage more women into forestryRos Wardman has recently told of her experiences in a bid to encourage more women into forestry

"In terms of recruitment, we’re missing out on 50 per cent of the population if we can’t demonstrate that forestry is a sector in which women can thrive.

"Sharing their stories isn’t just about novelty or trying to show the industry isn’t quite as male-dominated as some might think (though that is important – I have no doubt the prospect of entering an all-male workplace would be daunting to many if not most women).

"It’s also valuable to learn how they got their start and the journey taken towards their current role." 

This series will continue in future editions of Forestry Journal. If you’d like to take part, email jack.haugh@forestryjournal.co.uk