In 2026, we will return to the subject of innovation, building on discussions held at our National Conference in 2018 with a future-focused theme of Innovation for a Resilient Tomorrow. We will explore how forestry should adapt and stay relevant to the needs of society now and in the future, contribute to wellbeing and foster hope in an era of uncertainty.
Exploring regenerative culture, we will look at future innovative solutions to societal challenges, including environmental, social and economic challenges. We will address how to create regenerative relationships at a local, regional and national level and ensure resources remain available for future generations. We will pose the question of what advancements are needed to balance human and natural needs and whether that will be through technology, different systems to manage our resources or promoting a circular economy.
We will also examine how people will view, connect with and ultimately value trees and urban forests in the future.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be a part of this forward-thinking conference, bringing together professionals from across the diverse forestry and arboriculture sector to help shape the future.
Become a Sponsor or Exhibitor
If you’re interested in sponsoring or exhibiting at our National Conference 2026, you can find out more in this document. To discuss any of the sponsorship or exhibition opportunities, please contact our Business Development Manager, Vanessa Wilhelm.
Venue and accommodation
Join us at the award-winning conference venue ICC Wales to be inspired and network amongst nature with the conference room and outdoor terraces adjacent to woodland. There are a range of dining and bar options in the vicinity of ICC Wales to continue networking after the conference with exclusive delegate offers.
The recommended hotel is Premier Inn Newport Wales which is a 15-minute walk to the ICC Wales. To browse other hotels in the area, please visit the Hotel Map website. The page shows live rates and availability enabling delegates to book the best available rate at a hotel of their choice at the time of booking. Please note the Premier Inn is not available to book through the Hotel Map and must be booked directly.
Enter the Educational & Scientific Trust ticket ballot
The Institute’s Educational and Scientific Trust (EST) is funding two free tickets for a student and early career professional to attend this conference. The EST is offering the packages outlined below and applications will close on 6 February 2026.
- One Student Conference Ticket and Dinner Ticket including accommodation and travel expenses
- One Early Career Professional* Conference and Dinner Ticket, including accommodation and travel expenses
*Early career professionals are defined as being in the first ten years of their career.
Applications are only open to members of the Institute of Chartered Foresters. The winner will be picked by ballot and the prize is non-transferrable, no alternative is offered. If the winner is not able to take up their prize, they must inform the Institute at the earliest opportunity so that it may be reallocated.
Winners will be informed by email by 13 February 2026. Unsuccessful applicants will still be able to apply for tickets priced at the Early Bird rate until 28 February 2026 (subject to availability).
