Organisers are gearing up for the 2024 Scotland’s Finest Woods Awards which this year has four key themes.

Climate, community, forestry, and farming will be at the heart of the event and competition for the Climate Change Champion Trophy is expected to be particularly strong.

Jean Nairn, executive director of Scotland’s Finest Woods, said: “Forestry and agriculture play a vital role in the rural economy of Scotland and we are proud to celebrate that in our awards. But they are also an important player in the nation’s attempts to move to net zero and tackle climate change – helping the environment not only by reducing CO2 but also by reducing the risk of flooding and protecting vital peatland habitats, as well as helping agriculture thrive.

“Last year it was great to see lots of community involvement, from both young and old, in the awards and we are expecting the same again in 2024. It is vital the fight against climate change involves all sectors of society so everyone can help mitigate, educate, and adapt to the challenges we face in Scotland and across the globe.

“Across Scotland, we know there are inspirational people who are making a difference through their commitment to the woodlands they own, manage, and volunteer in. This is the chance to celebrate them.”

The full list of awards is open to anyone with a high-quality project, whether that be a school or pre-school nursery, a forestry business – small or large, an expert forester, farmer or crofter, or a community woodland.

Guy Watt, Chair of Scotland’s Finest Woods, the charity which operates the programme, said: “It was a pleasure to once again be at the Royal Highland Show to celebrate some wonderful work being done across Scotland. This year is already looking set to be a great success.

“It is important we celebrate and champion the environment as well as the community and commercial work which contributes to a wonderful diversity of woodlands in our country.

“Praise should also go to the judges, whose knowledge and guidance are vital to producing an awards programme that is of the highest excellence. We should also thank entrants for taking the time and effort to take part in what is a fantastic celebration of trees, woodland, and forestry in all its forms.”

Entries must be submitted by 23:59 on Sunday, March 31. Full details, criteria, and entry forms are available at www.sfwa.co.uk