The aim of this Ignite course is to provide producers of firewood with the knowledge and skills to produce sustainable and viable firewood for the long term future, focusing on an added value product that meets the modern consumer's needs.
Course Content
Firewood as a renewable fuel
The carbon balance of firewood
Drivers for an increase in demand for renewable fuels
Sources of timber for firewood
Woodlands
Tree surgery
Reclaimed wood
Turning timber into firewood
Seasoning
Equipment
Matching different raw material to equipment
Handling and delivering firewood
Depot layout and design
Handling equipment
Delivery methods
Reducing handling
Introduction to markets for firewood
Domestic / commercial
Rural / Urban
Economics of firewood supply
Scale
Costs / income
Market prices
Streamlining techniques to lower overheads
General Information
Throughout the course participants are encouraged to contribute their own experience either of woodfuel or of other aspects of renewables to the group. There is a lively, good humoured atmosphere at courses, where participants can discuss issues of particular relevance or interest to themselves and the group within the framework of the course.
Lunch and all refreshments will be provided and please bring a waterproof and boots as we will be leaving the confines of the classroom!
For content or technical enquiries please contact Will Richardson on 01765 609355 or will.richardson@ruraldevelopment.org.uk
