Northwoods is currently running a new training course to support the emerging biomass market in the North East of England.  Following the success of the ignite woodfuel training programme, Northwoods has recognised that the remaining elements of the biomass supply chain need to be established and trained to the appropriate level.  We have developed a bespoke training package dealing with the production and processing of biomass.  

The aim of the Energy Crops and Logistic Training project is to provide training courses which address the establishment, processing and logistics associated with the production of short rotation coppice (SRC) and the handling and supply of SRC, woodchip and wood pellets.

The project is a direct response to an identified skills need which is emerging in Northumberland (and the UK more widely), following the creation and expansion of markets for biomass at the medium and large scale across the North East.

The Energy Crops and Logistic training is directed towards the farming and forestry sector in particular.  Small to medium farming and forestry enterprises are invited to participate in several training events.  The purpose of these courses is as follows:

·         Introduce the economic and technical considerations of establishing and maintaining Short Rotation Coppice and forestry energy crops;

·         Give a detailed understanding of the economic and technical considerations of hauling and handling energy crops of all types.

·         Provide opportunities for beneficiaries to share experiences and create informal learning networks within Northumberland's emerging biomass industry.

·         Assist forestry and farming businesses to diversify into new markets at a time of considerable uncertainty for all land-based industries.

The project comprises a series of co-ordinated practical and classroom-based seminars and workshops:

Day One:   Establishment and Management

Day Two:   Agronomy

Day Three: Harvesting and Logistics

Want to find out more?

If you would like further information on the courses or you would like to find out when the next courses are running please contact us.