The UK Forestry Jobs Newsletter shares the best curated forestry jobs in the UK, from tree planting to director level.
The UK timber market is still in a cautious phase, with price stability across most grades but pressure on costs everywhere. Timber prices have risen sharply since the pandemic, with log prices up by nearly 100% in some areas compared with five years ago, and another 40–50% increase over the last two years alone. That’s pushing up costs for sawmills, contractors, and anyone buying finished timber for construction, fencing, or garden products.
Haulage Costs Driving Costs
Haulage is where the squeeze is really hitting. Diesel costs have been volatile, and there’s ongoing disruption in global freight, with shipping routes rerouted and surcharges added for Middle East and North Africa markets. That means the cost of getting timber into the UK, and moving it around the country, is higher and less predictable. For contractors, hauliers, and woodland businesses, the takeaway is clear: timber is more expensive, haulage is tighter, and margins are being squeezed in a fragile market.
Reasons to be Cheerful: 1, 2, 3, 4…
But timber markets are cyclical, and we’ve seen ups and downs before. The industry has already bounced through several cycles since the 2000s, and long‑term demand for wood products looks strong as construction, packaging, and green materials continue to grow. That means there’s still real job security in forestry, timber, and haulage roles, even when the short term feels tough.
Keep safe and enjoy the summer sun.
Jack
P.S. What’s it like from your experience? Are you long-term positive or worried about the future. Reply to this and let me know. Oh and check out the job posts on our Facebook page - remember to like and share them!
Jobs Spotlight
In this section we highlight our favourite opportunities each week.
What?: Forester
Who?: Englefield Estate
Where?: Hampshire and Berkshire
How Much?: £Competitive + Benefits
What?: Forest Craftsperson
Where?: Clydebank, Scotland
How Much?: ££30,414 - £31,814
In the news this week…
🌲 The Scottish government has announced that tree planting in Scotland fell again last year, with new woodland creation down and a worrying drop in the number of trees reaching the target.
This comes despite ongoing commitments to support the industry, expand forestry and meet climate goals, and it’s a clear signal that the government is struggling to keep pace with ambition. For anyone in the UK forestry community, it’s a reminder that planting targets are not just a headline, but a real challenge to deliver on the ground.🌲