Get Wildfire Ready: Join Us at Rottal Estate on 13th November

Wildfire risk is increasing across the UK, and preparedness is key. The Heather Trust, in partnership with Pasture for Life, is hosting the Wildfire Ready Event on Thursday, 13th November 2025 at Rottal Estate, Kirriemuir, Angus, bringing together farmers, land managers, and rural professionals for a practical, hands-on day of learning and networking. Spaces are still available, and we’d love to see you there!

What you can expect from the day:

The day will be hosted by our director, Katrina Candy, with contributions from experts across wildfire management, policy, and land use. Highlights include:

Guest Speakers:

• Eduardo Chivite (Vallfirest) will share lessons from Spain’s large-scale wildfires and strategies to strengthen preparedness in the UK.

• Kenneth Barbour (Scottish Fire & Rescue) will discuss Scotland’s most severe wildfire season in 2025 and key lessons for response and prevention.

• Colin Maclean (Cairngorms National Park Authority) will provide insight into wildfire planning and the seasonal fire byelaw.

• Nadia Flaherty (Scottish Land & Estates) will outline current Muirburn policy and the challenges it poses for managing wildfire risk.

  
  

Practical Workshops & Demonstrations:

Attendees will take part in breakout sessions led by Michael Bruce to assess current fire preparedness and response strategies. Field demonstrations from the Angus Moorland Group, Vallfirest, and Hosetech will showcase field techniques for wildfire risk reduction, such as firebreak construction and vegetation clearance, as well as fire suppression.

Panel Discussion:

A cross-sector panel including representatives from NFUS, Scottish Fire & Rescue, Cairngorms National Park, Scottish Land and Estates, and others will explore collaborative approaches to wildfire prevention and land management.

Networking & Next Steps:

The event will also provide opportunities to connect with fellow land managers and discuss next steps for forming local fire groups, accessing resources, and further training.

Event Details:

• Date: Thursday, 13 November 2025

• Venue: Rottal Estate, Glen Clova, Kirriemuir, Angus

• Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm

• Tickets: £50 per delegate (includes lunch and refreshments)

  
  

There’s still time to secure your place at this essential event for anyone involved in land management.

Or contact chloe.thornton@heathertrust.co.uk for more information.

Don’t miss this chance to gain practical skills, expert insights, and make vital connections to better prepare your land and community for wildfire risks.