Women have long played an important role in the forestry sector. From the trailblazing work of the Lumberjills of the Second World War to the many women working in a range of roles across the nation's forests today, their contributions continue to support these special places. This article celebrates their stories and highlights the achievements of women in forestry.
An innovative celebration of women in forestry
To honour this legacy, the Forestry Commission, Forestry England and Forest Research, supported by Defra, commissioned The People’s Picture to create a large-scale photo mosaic. The artwork features images and stories from women across the forestry sector, both historical and current.
Visit the link below to explore the mosaic and discover some of their stories and achievements.
The Lumberjills of the Women's Timber Corps
During the Second World War (1939-1945), a rising demand for timber and lack of male forestry workers created a need for women to join the Women's Timber Corps.
Known as the Lumberjills, thousands of women rose to the challenge and took on the physically demanding tasks of forestry, from felling and loading trees to driving tractors and operating sawmills.
Their resilience and determination paved the way for future generations of women in forestry. Discover more of their story online.
Roles for women in forestry today
As tree planting increases across the country, so too does the demand for a diverse, skilled forestry workforce.
Today, there is a wide range of careers in forestry available to women of all backgrounds, from foresters, ecologists and tree surgeons to working in conservation and scientific research. There are also lots of exciting wider roles linked to the nation’s forests, from business planning and management to leisure and tourism.
Whether working outdoors or supporting behind the scenes, women continue to shape and sustain our woodlands for future generations.
Inspired to hear more?
Watch our video to hear directly from women working in forestry today.
