Can we talk about the forest?
Welcome to a day about forests and biodiversity!
Free admission!
February 28, 2026
Can we talk about the forest?
The forest is important to many people – for biodiversity, for the climate and for the people who own, use and live in it. At the same time, forestry and nature conservation often arouse strong opinions. Welcome to a day where you can take part in different perspectives!
FULLY BOOKED
There has been a lot of interest and all places are now filled. If you would like to participate, but have not had time to register, you are welcome to put yourself on the waiting list. In the event of any cancellations, we will contact participants in order of priority.
Email katarina.berlin.thorell@leader-sjuharad.se to put you in line.
During the day
Place: Rådde farm, Länghem
Day and time: Saturday 28/2 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Registration: Fully booked. Email if you want to be put on the waiting list, katarina.berlin.thorell@leader-sjuharad.se.
Food: We offer lunch and coffee. Please notify us of any special dietary needs when registering.
The day is free and open to anyone who wants to learn more about forestry and biodiversity.
Program
09.00: Drop in for coffee and a roll
09.30: What is biodiversity in the forest and why do we need to talk about it? Introduction and lecture with Katarina Berlin Thorell, Leader Sjuhärad.
10.00: How are the birds and other biodiversity doing in the forests of Western Sweden? Christer Johansson, BirdLife Sweden.
10.30: Biodiversity in private forestry, Maria Lennartson, Southern Forest Owners.
— Short break —
11.15: Close-to-nature forestry – what is it, and can it be a win-win for both the forest owner and nature? Lennart Berglind, More4pcs.
11.45: ”"”In the head of a forest owner” – a conversation about views on forestry, property rights and biodiversity. Torbjörn Engström, Länghem and Hans Palmqvist, Blidsberg.
— Long lunch with mingling, activities and inspiration —
13.45: Practical conservation tips to promote biodiversity in your forest. Boel Nilsson, Swedish Forestry Agency
14.30: Workshop with coffee and dip: How can we come together about the forest? A way forward for both the forest owner and the ecosystem.
15.30: Summary of the day and conclusion
It happens during lunch
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Tip walk – take a break outdoors and test your skills.
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Art gallery – vote for your favorite species in the forest and participate in a prize draw.
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Mini exhibition – get inspiration and learn more about the forest's species. Take the opportunity to pat a moss and feel a lichen.
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Mingle – meet today's speakers and invited guests, including BirdLife Sweden, Södra, Skogens Kraft, Hushållningssällskapet Sjuhärad and Arena Skog.
Meet a lecturer…
Christer Johansson, BirdLife Sweden
Forest birds are important indicators of biodiversity and provide clear signals about the health of our forest ecosystems. Christer Johansson works as an expert in forest issues at BirdLife Sweden, Sweden's national bird association and part of the global network BirdLife International. The organization works to protect birds and their habitats through nature conservation, research and knowledge dissemination.
An important part of BirdLife Sweden's work is to strengthen the dialogue between forestry and the rest of civil society - and that is also why the organization is participating in Forest Day. Based on the role of birds in the forest, Christer will highlight how forestry can take the consideration of birds and other biodiversity that is necessary to achieve our environmental goals.
Listen to Christer at 10:00: How are the birds and other biodiversity doing in the forests of Western Sweden?
Katarina Berlin Thorell, Leader Sjuhärad
Why do we need to talk about forests and biodiversity? Do we need to care about the wood grouse, capercaillie and the other species that live in the forest? What is the real benefit of biodiversity?
Katarina Berlin Thorell is project manager for Ekoboost, our project focusing on natural benefits and biodiversity. She is an agronomist with a master's degree in biology and has extensive experience - including as an agricultural advisor.. Katarina is driven by combining conservation issues with profitable production – allowing different perspectives to meet and find sustainable solutions.
Listen to Katarina at 9:30: What is biodiversity in the forest and why do we need to talk about it?
Lennart Berglind, More4st
What is close-to-nature forestry? Lennart Berglind, forestry advisor at the company More4st, answers that question in his presentation.
Lennart will share thoughts and illustrative examples in words and pictures along with a background on the basics of this decent and useful way of farming. Some cultural input into this forest approach can also be promised, as well as literature tips and concrete experiences.
Listen to Lennart at 11:15: Close-to-nature forestry – what is it, and can it be a win-win for both the forest owner and nature?
Do you have any questions? Let us know!
