Growing forest values theme of conference
From the Spring 2007 edition of Bush Telegraph Magazine.
More than 300 foresters working for government, private growers and the timber industry gathered in Coffs Harbour in June to attend the joint Australian and New Zealand Institutes of Foresters Conference.
Staged every four years, the 2007 conference was focused on the theme ‘Growing forest values’, with a range of speakers from the two countries, along with field trips to local forests.
According to organisers, the theme was chosen to reflect not only the economic value of forests, but also the increasing recognition of the social and environmental benefits of forests and the contribution this made to the wellbeing of society.
Australian Institute President, Dr Peter Volker, said that foresters have traditionally managed forests for these values, but that the profession needed to be more forthright in sending this message to the community.
Forests NSW was a proud conference sponsor, with a number of staff presenting papers. A stand highlighting the organisation’s work in carbon trading, timber certification and tree breeding also attracted delegates during breaks.
For more information on professional foresters, see www.forestry.org.au
Communications, Maitland
