Introduction to tree measurement (Mensuration)

Date: Friday 05 June 2020

Instructor: Kevin Penfold MicFor

Location: South Downs National Park Authority, South Downs Centre, North Street, Midhurst, West Sussex GU29 9DH

About:    

This course is aimed at woodland owners, land agents and managers who require a basic knowledge of tree and timber measurement.  The course is an introduction to timber measurement and will include:

At the end of the course you will be able to:

• explain and apply the conventions for measuring diameter and tree height
• have knowledge of the tools and equipment required 
• estimate the volume of individual trees
• explain and apply the conventions for setting out sample plots
• calculate number of trees and estimated volumes per hectare.
• measure felled timber
• be aware of the publications and resources available to extend your knowledge in forest mensuration and inventory.

The day will be split into three sessions; the first session will cover the terms and conventions, mensuration tools and principals of woodland inventory.  The second session will be an outdoor session to measure felled and standing timber in the wood.  The final session will be to process the data collected to calculate timber and tree volumes.

Duration:  10.00am to 4.00pm (exact timings to be confirmed)

Price:  RFS members £75.00 / non RFS members £85.00

Note: Course attendees are advised to bring packed lunch, but tea and coffee will be provided.

About the tutor:

Kevin Penfold MicFor has over 35 years’ experience working with and managing woodlands. He spent 25 years of his career with the Forestry Commission in roles such as Forest District Manager, Operations Manager (for 11 years), Planning Forester, Technical Trainer, and Forester.  In 2012 Kevin established his own business and now manages a wide range of woodland types with differing objectives, undertaking the marketing and supply of timber, contract management, health and safety management, woodland establishment, and woodland regeneration for private woodland owners.  A past approved forestry technical trainer, assessor, and examiner, he has a high level of technical competence having represented forest industry interests at a national level with the HSE.

About the South Downs National Park Authority:

This course is delivered by the RFS in partnership with the SDNPA who are generously hosting the course at the South Downs Centre, Midhurst.  The South Downs National Park is the third largest National Park in England and has the largest National Park population, with 117,000 residents. From rolling hills to bustling market towns, the South Downs National Park’s landscapes cover 1,600km2 of breathtaking views, including 18 distinctive landscapes, 13 European wildlife sites and more woodland than any other National Park in England or Wales. The South Downs National Park Authority (SDNPA) is responsible for keeping the South Downs a special place, including conserving and enhancing the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the area. It is also the planning authority for the National Park. The Authority is a public body, funded by government, and run by a Board of 27 Members.  For more information visit their website www.south-downs.gov.uk