Celebrating the ICFR’s Forestry Science Symposium Winners

Over two days, the Forestry Science Symposium welcomed 209 delegates who engaged with 51 informative, cutting-edge research presentations and 29 poster displays. While the true winner was the forestry sector itself, housing remarkable talent, five presenters distinguished themselves in the eyes of the judges tasked with selecting the best full presentations and speed talks (in both open and student categories), as well as the top poster. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all winners, but particularly ICFR colleagues Dr Danvir Ramesar and Nigel Kombora, who claimed the open and student speed talk categories, respectively.

Dr. Danvir Ramesar – Speed Talk: Near Infrared Spectroscopy in Monitoring Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Pools in Forestry Soils

Attending my first Forestry Science Symposium and winning a presentation award was an empowering experience. It has instilled in me a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to advancing our sector scientifically while strengthening the community that supports it. The quality of presentations across various research areas was outstanding, each offering a comprehensive and engaging overview of the work propelling the sector forward and maintaining its global competitiveness.

The Forestry Science Symposium is essential for staying connected with the diverse research being conducted in our field. It provided me with insights into topics such as climate modelling, plant breeding for improved germplasm, pest and disease management, and conservation forestry. Moreover, it serves as a vital platform for fostering collaboration and networking. The thriving nature of forestry research, and the sector, is a testament to our collaborative approach. Thus, I view the Speed Talk Award not just as a personal achievement, but as recognition of the collective efforts and supportive environment fostered by my colleagues at the ICFR and those across the forestry sector.

Nigel Kombora – Speed Talk: Defoliating Insects and Their Impact on the Productivity of E. dunnii Through Artificial Defoliation

The Forestry Science Symposium was an exceptional platform to showcase the rich and diverse research taking place within the forestry industry, both in South Africa and internationally. The presentations were of remarkable quality, covering a wide array of topics including pest and disease control, breeding, climate change, modelling, and advanced technologies in precision forestry. The event highlighted the extensive scope of forestry, from pre-planting decision-making to the processing of final products. It was inspiring to witness the dedication of forestry companies, research institutes, individual researchers, and students, all committed to the industry’s growth and sustainability.

Being selected to present a speed talk in front of industry professionals was an honour, and winning the Speed Talk Student Category Award was an even greater privilege. This recognition has reignited my passion for forestry and its research. Being chosen from a pool of impressive student presentations reassured me of the significance of our work. This sentiment was echoed by Dr. Ronald Heath, Director of Research and Protection at FSA, who exclaimed, “I don’t know how they achieved this!” Such praise has strengthened my belief in the transformative potential of the research conducted at the ICFR and has reinvigorated my commitment to my scientific endeavours.