Forestry Science Symposium 2026

Theme:

Green Horizons: Advancing Science and Innovation for Sustainable Timber Resources

Dates: 24–26 November 2026

Location: Paul Sauer building, Stellenbosch University, South Africa

Hosts:

Forestry South Africa, South African Institute of Forestry and Stellenbosch University

Organising committee:

Wayne Jones (SAIF)

Ronald Heath (FSA)

Bruce Talbot (SU)

Katy Johnson (FSA)

Intsia Kriel (SAIF)

Stefan Links (FSA)

Justin Erasmus (SU)

This symposium will bring together researchers, practitioners, industry leaders, policymakers, and students to explore how science and innovation can strengthen the sustainability, resilience, and value of South Africa’s timber resources. The programme is designed to reflect both the established strengths of the sector and the emerging challenges shaping its future, including climate resilience, forest health, biodiversity, digital forestry, advanced tree improvement, wood products innovation, and sustainable production systems. The aim is to promote dialogue across the full forest value chain, from genetics and silviculture to sensing, processing, and ecosystem stewardship.