Alumni events

Forestry and Woodland Forum – Sector professionals gather for a day of insight and connection

The Royal Agricultural University (RAU) and the Forestry Commission are hosting a special forum for landowners, agents, managers, rural professionals and anyone with an interest in the future of our landscapes with regards to woodland creation, productive forestry, and regenerative land use.

This unique event held across the RAU campus and Sapperton Wilder, will bring together practitioners and experts working at the forefront of land use and regeneration. The day will offer practical insight, thoughtful discussion and opportunities to connect with others shaping the future of our countryside.

The event will be co-chaired by Dame Fiona Reynolds, Chair of the RAU’s Governing Council, and Sir William Worsley, Chair of the Forestry Commission.

Programme Highlights:

1. Keynote address by Sir Charlie Burrell, champion of rewilding and founder of the Knepp Estate.

2. Expert-led sessions on:

5. Agroforestry: Opportunities & Approaches

5. Productive Forestry: Building Resilience

5. Managing Deer Populations

3. Farm walk and site visit showcasing real-world applications of regenerative woodland management

Guests will also enjoy a field-to-fork lunch, including delicious venison burgers provided by regenerative farmer and Forestry Commission Woodland Ambassador, Andy Gray. Transport to the farm site and all refreshments are included.

This is a valuable opportunity for rural professionals to connect with peers, engage with the latest thinking in forestry and land use, explore regenerative land management in practice and discover approaches that aids businesses, biodiversity and climate resilience.

Spaces are limited, so early booking is strongly encouraged. Please book via the link https://www.eventbrite.com/e/woodland-and-forestry-forum-2025-tickets-1479948849849

1972-1975 REM Grand 50th Reunion

Are you part of this cohort? Please get in touch with us for your 50th Grand Reunion. Plans include a lovely drinks reception and dinner. Email alumni@rau.ac.uk for more information.

Wednesday, 22 October 6:00pm to 8:00pm

180th Lecture Series ~ Making Farming Buzz Again

The fifth 180th anniversary lecture will take place on Wednesday 22 October 2025 in the Boutflour Hall, at the Royal Agricultural University, delivered by Ann Conquest of Land Use Consultant (LUC), Associate Director, Rural Land Management and Duncan Westbury, Dean of Land and Property Management at the Royal Agricultural University.

Ann has over 20 years' experience in implementing and designing Agri-Environment schemes, having previously worked for Natural England. Ann has a proven track record of effective partnerships working to find effective solutions to challenging situations. She has worked extensively with farmers, NGOs, Local Authorities and large landowners and estates on a wide range of projects, aiming to benefit people, nature and the rural economy. 

Professor Duncan Westbury joined the Royal Agricultural University in September 2023 after over 12 years at the University of Worcester and nine years at the University of Reading. He has a very strong background in applying ecological principles to habitat creation and management, with specific research experience on the management of agroecosystems to support biodiversity whilst simultaneously supporting ecosystem services within agricultural landscapes.

Come along to learn what is being done to making farming buzz again, enhance biodiversity and ecosystem services in agriculture landscapes.

Tickets and parking are free. Visit this link to book on Eventbrite.

180th Lecture Series ~ Water, Wastewater, Everywhere... Every drop counts!

The final 180th anniversary lecture will take place on Wednesday 12 November 2025 in the Boutflour Hall, at the Royal Agricultural University, delivered by Professor Kiran Tota-Maharaj, RAU Professor of Water Resources Management and Infrastructure, and Andrew Blackhall, CEO Water Research Centre.

Water, wastewater, everywhere… Every drop counts! And every drop connects to our energy industries and food sectors. Did you know the water is deeply connected to our Energy and Food? In this 180th Anniversary Lecture Series, in partnership with the Water Research Centre Ltd (WRc), we'll explore Microbial Electrosynthesis (MES), as a game-changer and revolutionary technology. Imagine microbes and electricity transforming wastewater into valuable resources, addressing the challenges of the Water-Energy-Food (WEF) Nexus. Uncovering how these fascinating technologies clean water, generate energy, and can even produce food, maximising the potential of our precious water resources.

Professor Kiran Tota-Maharaj is a distinguished engineer, academic, and environmental leader whose career is dedicated to advancing sustainable water resources management. Currently, Professor of Water Resources Management and Infrastructure at the Royal Agricultural University (RAU) and Technical Director for Water, Wastewater and Environmental Engineering at the Water Research Centre Ltd (WRc), he effectively bridges industry and academia through collaborative research, practice, and education. 

Andy Brackhall will be presenting on the following topic: River Deep, Mountain AI: Research Driven, Artificial Intelligence for a Sustainable Future. Currently, Andy is Managing Director at the Water Research Centre (WRc). He is an Environmental Scientist, with a background in Automotive Engineering. He holds a Master’s in Business and is a Chartered Director. 

Come along to hear their extensive knowledge of water operations and learn about innovative solutions for sustainable water resource management.

Tickets and parking are free. Visit this link to book on Eventbrite.