Top performing forestry graduate at UHI Inverness wins Tilhill award
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A graduate at UHI Inverness has won an award for a report she prepared on woodland creation.
Dr Leila Eadie, a Forestry HND graduate from the Scottish School of Forestry, won the Tilhill Award for Best New Planting Application.
It followed a report she prepared on woodland creation in the forestry policy and law module of her course.
She developed a forest design plan which considered the land capabilities, management aims, local wildlife and wider landscape when choosing tree species for the planting application.
"It's all about putting the right tree in the right place, to use a popular phrase, and that's what forestry should be; a productive investment but also an opportunity to enhance our landscapes for future generations of people, plants and wildlife," she said.
She was presented with a specially-carved wooden trophy and £250 prize money to recognise her achievements.
Tilhill, which provides forest and woodland management services, presents awards to top performing students at universities offering forestry-related subjects across the UK as part of its work to strengthen links with future foresters.
Dr Eadie, now geographical information systems and technology manager at Fountains Forestry, studied forestry after changing careers from her previous job as an academic researcher.
"Living in the Scottish Highlands you see forestry all around and this stirred my interest in finding out more about the cycle of timber production," she said.
"The course at the Scottish School of Forestry was excellent, taught by lecturers with industry experience and a wealth of knowledge to share.
"It helped prepare us for working in the field, and the year out spent within a company was particularly useful."
She took up a permanent job with Fountains Forestry following a placement there and is now involved with mapping, apps, drone imaging and analytics.
David Edwards, Tilhill’s forestry director, congratulated her on the award.
"Scotland has set ambitious tree planting targets to combat climate change and the forestry industry needs more people like Leila choosing to enter the sector to ensure we help meet woodland creation targets to sequester carbon, provide wildlife habitats, prevent flooding and supply much needed home-grown timber," he said.
Neil Cleland, depute head of the Scottish School of Forestry, said: "Leila showed great enthusiasm and determination whilst studying at the Scottish School of Forestry.
"Her application demonstrated a clear understanding of the requirements, and the quality of her work was extremely high.
"We wish her all the best for her career endeavours and congratulate her on receiving this award."
