A STUDENT has told of her delight after receiving a prestigious award for her wildfire research. 

The University of Cumbria’s Laura Elizabeth Sleep (Lulu) claimed the Tilhill Forestry Award for the Best Dissertation on her BSc (Hons) Forest Management course.

Lulu was presented with a specially-carved oak trophy and a £250 gift voucher for her work, which saw her compare the differences in forest recovery following wildfires in British Columbia. 

Lulu said: “I am delighted to receive this recognition and award from Tilhill Forestry for my dissertation project – a reflection of my hard work throughout my Forest Management degree.

“I chose to study the effects of wildfire severity on forest recovery in British Columbia whilst on a voluntary internship at the Alex Fraser Research Forest in 2023.

“I was keen for my dissertation to contribute to research on current threats to forestry from climate change.

"Wildfires are a threat to forests worldwide and wildfire size and intensity throughout British Columbia is increasing and worsening with climate change.

"Within B.C. there is an urgent need to reassess post-fire forest management techniques which are costly and can cause negative ecological impacts. My dissertation compared the differences in forest recovery following three different severities of wildfire.”

James Harrison-Moore, Tilhill forest manager, who presented the award to Lulu, said: “Recognising the dedication, hard work and achievements of students like Lulu is a true honour.”

About Lulu’s achievements, Matt Robson, associate professor at the University of Cumbria, said: “Lulu has shown exceptional dedication to her degree studies.”