Crofter Phil Knott will be opening the gates of his award-winning Wildlife Croft at Drumfearn, Isle of Skye, to share his experience of creating and managing a diverse young woodland.
The free showcase event is aimed at encouraging other crofters, farmers and land managers to grow trees for the environment and add value to a crofting or farming business.
The Walking & Talking Trees: winter management of a young woodland event is taking place on Thursday 30th October from 10am to 1pm.
Speaking ahead of the croft visit, Phil Knott said:
"Our croft woodland has become the heart of everything we do here – from producing food and firewood to creating new habitats for wildlife. I’m looking forward to sharing what has worked for us, especially the practical side of managing a young woodland through the winter months."
Visitors will learn how Phil has expanded his 3.8-hectare croft by planting locally sourced native trees, fruit trees, hedges, shrubs, wildflower meadows and ponds, creating a resilient mixed-age woodland and a haven for biodiversity.
The trees also provide shelter for polytunnels, a source of firewood, charcoal, and food, as well as supporting Phil’s own nursery, Drumfearn Trees.
During the morning, Phil will demonstrate his winter woodland management techniques, including pruning, pollarding, coppicing, thinning and wood chipping, and discuss his plans for the future. He will also share how he grows trees from seeds and cuttings for the nursery.
Staff from Scottish Forestry and the Croft Woodland Project will also be on hand to explain the range of funding and support available for crofters and land managers who want to integrate trees into their land.
The event is part of the Integrating Trees Network, a farmer and crofter-led initiative supported by the Scottish Government and Scottish Forestry.
The network aims to share real-life experiences of planting and managing trees, helping others learn how trees can deliver benefits for land, business, and the environment.
Lyn White, forestry and farming development officer at Scottish Forestry, added:
"The Integrating Trees Network is all about sharing knowledge and learning from people who have first-hand experience of planting and managing trees.
“Phil’s croft is a fantastic example of how trees can bring multiple benefits – from shelter and income to biodiversity and resilience – and we’re delighted he is opening it up to inspire others."
The event is free to attend, with tea, coffee and biscuits provided.
Booking is essential and is carried out through the Integrating Trees Network ticket site.
