Membership Magazine | 2021 ISSUE 01

Membership Magazine | 2021 ISSUE 01

2 32021 Issue 01 cif-ifc.org 2021 Issue 01 cif-ifc.org

BMO Canadian Institute of Forestry Mastercard

LET'S GROW TOGETHER

Do you have theBMO Canadian ForestryAssociation Mastercard? In 2014, the CIF absorbed the BMO Canadian ForestryAssociation Mastercard as a legacy project. Revenuesgenerated by the credit card partnership have since supportedthe Institute.

What do you need to know? What's in it for you?

If you already have the Canadian Forestry Associationcard, you don’t need to do anything! Keep using yourcard for your everyday purchases and BMO willcontinue to contribute a percentage of your purchasesback to the CIF. Your card will be replaced when itcomes due for renewal with the new card image.

If you don’t already have the card – Apply now!

You earn AIR MILES reward miles or cash back everytime you a make a purchase.

With every purchase, BMO makes a contribution to CIFat no additional cost to you. It’s an easy way to supportthe programs and initiatives the CIF offers as thenational coordination point and catalyst for action inforestry.

® Registered trademark of Bank of Montreal.

®* Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated. Used under license.

®† Trademarks of AM Royalties Limited Partnership used under license by LoyaltyOne, Co. and Bank of Montreal.

We have recently introduced the BMO Canadian Institute of ForestryMastercard. The new card features the CIF-IFC logo and you can

continue to earn rewards with every purchase.

More information on how to apply:

www.cif-ifc.org/mastercard

®†

®*®BMO Canadian Institute of Forestry Mastercard

LET'S GROW TOGETHER

Do you have theBMO Canadian ForestryAssociation Mastercard? In 2014, the CIF absorbed the BMO Canadian ForestryAssociation Mastercard as a legacy project. Revenuesgenerated by the credit card partnership have since supportedthe Institute.

What do you need to know? What's in it for you?

If you already have the Canadian Forestry Associationcard, you don’t need to do anything! Keep using yourcard for your everyday purchases and BMO willcontinue to contribute a percentage of your purchasesback to the CIF. Your card will be replaced when itcomes due for renewal with the new card image.

If you don’t already have the card – Apply now!

You earn AIR MILES reward miles or cash back everytime you a make a purchase.

With every purchase, BMO makes a contribution to CIFat no additional cost to you. It’s an easy way to supportthe programs and initiatives the CIF offers as thenational coordination point and catalyst for action inforestry.

® Registered trademark of Bank of Montreal.

®* Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated. Used under license.

®† Trademarks of AM Royalties Limited Partnership used under license by LoyaltyOne, Co. and Bank of Montreal.

We have recently introduced the BMO Canadian Institute of ForestryMastercard. The new card features the CIF-IFC logo and you can

continue to earn rewards with every purchase.

More information on how to apply:

www.cif-ifc.org/mastercard

®†

®*®

Table of Contents

A Message from the President ............................................................ 4A Message from the Executive Director ............................................. 52020–21 Board and Executive Members ........................................... 62021 Committees .................................................................................. 7A look inside the Current Issue

The Forest Chronicle: June 2021 VOL 97 NO 02 ........................................... 8News from the Institute ....................................................................... 9

Protecting One of Canada’s Rarest Ecosystems

Making History in Nova Scotia

Section Highlights: Algonquin ............................................................. 12Section Highlights: Northwestern Ontario ......................................... 13Section Highlights: Ottawa Valley ....................................................... 14Section Highlights: Vancouver ............................................................. 15Section Highlights: Rocky Mountain ................................................... 16Member Q & A: Vicki Gauthier ............................................................ 18

11

20

26

Gender Equality in Canada’s Forest Sector ........................................ 22Q & A with: Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC)

Senior Vice President, Kate Lindsay .................................................... 24

Silver Ring Ceremonies

Forests without Borders ...................................................................... 28In Memorium ......................................................................................... 29Sustaining Corporate Members .......................................................... 29

http://www.cif-ifc.org


52021 Issue 01 cif-ifc.org4

We cannot speak for how other sectors are coping with the challenges of the pandemic. We would believe that as forestry practitioners, our experience with continuous adaptation has helped us keep managing Canada’s forests as we always have…just differently.

The planned launch of new initiatives developed by the National Office will provide a contemporary visual identity for the CIF-IFC and make it easier for members to join our ranks and find information about national and local events.

Sincerely,

Richard DominyPresident

Welcome to 2021 issue 01 of The Leader.

A Message from theA Message from theExecutive DirectorPresident

We are building on our highly capable and inclusive Team with the addition of new staff. We are undergoing a brand refresh with our new primary and heritage logos, launch of our new website, membership value-proposition and associated communications plan.

Thanks to the work of the National Forest Week (NFW) Committee, the poster and daily sub-themes for NFW, September 19-25, 2021, have been finalized and sponsored. We have an enthusiastic NFW Engagement Coordinator, Esmée Schimmelpenninck, on-board to help us expand our outreach and explore new activities across Canada for this important event. Building on last year’s successful pilot, we will again collaborate with Resource Works in our efforts.

In previous messages I have written about the great work the CIF-IFC is co-leading with the Centre for Social Intelligence on Gender Equity in Canada’s Forest Sector – now referred to as Free to Grow in Forestry, with an expanded mandate to go beyond women to include other underrepresented groups. Please check out the Free to Grow in Forestry website at www.freetogrowinforestry.ca to see the substantive efforts that have been made, access seminal documents tools and podcasts, and learn how to take action on moving #ForestryForward. Please show your support by joining our mailing list on the site. It would be great to see all CIF-IFC members sign up and share with others! In addition, we are pleased to welcome John Boakye-Danquah to the National Office Team. John joined us in May 2021 as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to conduct additional research and gather evidence on the barriers and challenges faced by under-represented groups in Canada’s forest sector, including women and Indigenous peoples, immigrants, people with disabilities, visible minorities and LGBTQ2S+. The research outcomes will provide policy recommendations on programs and actions to support Free to Grow in Forestry for the advancement of gender diversity and inclusion in the sector.

We are hiring new staff members to take on other key positions: Forest Communications Advocate and Forest Education Coordinator. The Forest Communications Advocate, working closely with the Forest Advocacy Committee, will be instrumental in helping the Institute advocate for sustainable forests and to better fulfill our motto of serving as the voice of forest practitioners. The primary

goal of the Forest Education Coordinator will be to lead in the development of national forestry-focused programming and educational materials, creating valuable resources and professional development opportunities for educators and teachers.

Significant efforts have been made to strengthen the governance of the Institute and to bolster programs and products through three task forces. The Forestry Chronicle Task Force has developed and is implementing a strategy to raise the profile and increase the searchability of the Institute’s official, professional and scientific journal since 1925. Progress regarding the strategy will be assessed in the fall. The Silver Ring Task Force has undertaken a deep dive into all aspects of the Silver Ring Program, including the school admissions process. This work will continue into the fall. The Task Force on Sections will be wrapping up in June following a comprehensive governance review. Efforts will then revert back to the Policy and Governance Committee, such as updating the Section Handbook, proposing revisions to the By-Laws as appropriate, helping to revitalize sections in need, and creating new sections with an appropriate transition plan.

Lastly, please support our programs and initiatives by applying for the CIF-IFC BMO MasterCard through our website at: www.cif-ifc.org/mastercard. With every purchase, BMO makes a contribution to CIF-IFC at no additional cost to you, and you can earn reward miles or cash back too.

Thank you for your support!

Sincerely yours,

Mark PearsonExecutive Director

It is an exciting time to be part of the National Office and our Institute!

The CIF-IFC is the oldest forestry society in Canada. We are committed to providing a voice for forest practitioners for the next 100 years. As new graduates enter our ranks, we welcome them into the profession and look forward to working with them and supporting them.

Considering all that has gone on in this past year, and how everything has changed and is different – our good work within our forests continues. Worldwide the forest ecosystems are the most important biome on the planet, providing life supporting air, clean water, habitat for wildlife among many others. More importantly we have found solace in our forests during this challenging period in our history. We have learned through science the importance of these trees and their effect on humans as they walk, stroll, and hike through the forests.

In many of our workplaces, seasonal staff are invigorating our ranks and tackling the always endless summer field work. Tree planting, forest health surveys, permanent sample plot re-measurements, silviculture assessments, and urban forestry work (to name a few) are continuing. We have stricter procedures in place to keep the workplace safe and are using new technology to stay in touch.

2021 Issue 01 cif-ifc.org




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2020-21 Board and Executive Members 2021 Committees2020-2021 National ExecutiveThe CIF-IFC Executive (President, Vice President, 2nd Vice President and Past President) provides leadership to the CIF-IFC Board of Directors, and oversees CIF-IFC operations, major decision-making, needs and concerns.

Effective governance is underpinned by strong leadership and well- functioning committees. The CIF-IFC has several committees focussing on key areas to help leverage the Institute for success. By actively participating in one (or more!) of the various CIF-IFC committees, you have the chance to represent your local Section and be involved in a meaningful way.

COMMITTEE – Chair / Co-Chair

FOREST ADVOCACY – Mark Pearson

NATIONAL FOREST WEEK – Doug Reid

MEMBERSHIP – Luc M. Rainville / Sean Greene

NATIONAL AWARDS – Brad Epp

FINANCE AND AUDIT – Richard Dominy / Brad Epp

POLICY AND GOVERNANCE – Richard Dominy / Luc M. Rainville

2ND VICE PRESIDENT NOMINATION – Richard Dominy

HOST ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING & CONFERENCE PLANNING

– Nicholas Dormaar

THE FORESTRY CHRONICLE TASK FORCE – Ron Ayling / Mark Pearson

SECTIONS TASK FORCE – Mark Pearson

SILVER RING TASK FORCE – Alex Drummond / Ken Farr

The Forestry program at the University of Toronto's Daniels Faculty provides a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach to education and research, preparing graduates to make transformative contributions to meet the pressing ecological, social and economic challenges of our times while cultivating the skills and knowledge required of today's forestry professionals.

Visit daniels.utoronto.ca to learn more.

DANIELS Forestry

Master of Forest Conservation (MFC)Master of Science in Forestry (MScF) and PhD

2020-2021 National Board of DirectorsThe CIF-IFC Board of Directors consists of representatives from our 19 regional sections from across the country, and one International section. The Board of Directors provides guidance to the Executive and actively voices questions, ideas and concerns to address the needs of both CIF-IFC members and the forest and natural resources sectors in Canada.

SECTION – Director / Chair

VANCOUVER ISLAND – Margaret Symon / Graham Sakaki

VANCOUVER – Brian Boswell / Bill Bourgeois

CARIBOO – Nicholas Dormaar / Lisa Wood

THOMPSON OKANAGAN – N/A

KLONDIKE – N/A

ROCKY MOUNTAIN – Ron Hall / Bev Wilson

SASKATCHEWAN – Vicki Gauthier / Lorne Renouf

PRESIDENT – Richard Dominy

VICE PRESIDENT – Brad Epp

2ND VICE PRESIDENT – Doug Reid

PAST PRESIDENT – Luc M. Rainville

MANITOBA – Brad Epp

SOUTHERN ONTARIO – Terry Schwan

OTTAWA VALLEY – Mike Rosen / Ken Farr

ALGONQUIN – Allison Winmill / Glen Prevost

CENTRAL ONTARIO – Trevor Jones / Bob Elliot

NORTHWESTERN ONTARIO – Karen Saunders / Brian Campbell

LAKE OF THE WOODS – Janet Lane

NORTHERN ONTARIO – Jim Duncan / Rob Galloway

ORLÉANS – Pierre Fontaine

MARITIMES – Ed Czerwinski

NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR – Joseph Bowden (Chair) / Andrew Penny (1st Vice-Chair)

INTERNATIONAL - UK – Geraint Richards

We are always looking to bolster our committees and efforts. If you are interested in learning more or joining a committee, please email: [email protected]



mailto:mpearson%40cif-ifc.org%20?subject=Committee%20Member%20Inquiry


Editorial How Perseverance and Passion Brought Me to Canadian forestry!Katalijn MacAfee

Associate EditorsAssociate Editors/Corédacteurs

Scientific and Technical Papers Urban forestry research needs identified by Canadian municipalitiesJacques Larouche, Danny Rioux, Adrina C. Bardekjian, and Nancy Gélinas

Harvest volumes and carbon stocks in boreal forests of Ontario, CanadaMichael T. Ter-Mikaelian, Stephen J. Colombo, and Jiaxin Chen

Growing our future: Assessing the outcome of afforestation programs in Ontario, Canada Georgina K. Magnus, Elizabeth Celanowicz, Mihai Voicu, Mark Hafer, Juha M. Metsaranta, Andrew Dyk, and Werner A. Kurz

Sowing the future: A better understanding of Corporate-Indigenous Community Economic Partnerships in the Québec forestry sectorHelin Dura, Jean-Michel Beaudoin, and Thierry Rodon

Modeling tolerant hardwood sapling density and occurrence probability in the Acadian forests of New Brunswick, Canada: Results 14 years after harvestingMohammed Henneb, Gaetan Pelletier, Mathieu Fortin, Nelson Thiffault, and Marie-Andrée Giroux

A Look Inside the Current Issue

The Forestry Chronicle June 2021 VOL 97 NO 02

The Forestry Chronicle, first published in 1925, is the official journal of the Canadian Institute of Forestry/Institut forestier du Canada, and provides information to forest practitioners about professional and scientific management of forests and their resources. The Forestry Chronicle offers forest practitioners in Canada and around the world with a means to communicate with their peers in the professional community.

Professional Papers Wood supply challenges in Alberta – Growing more timber is the only sustainable solutionBradley D. Pinno, Barb R. Thomas, and Victor J. Lieffers

Advancing the application of remote sensing for forest information needs in Canada: Lessons learned from a national collaboration of university, industrial and government stakeholdersNicholas C. Coops, Alexis Achim, Paul Arp, Christopher W. Bater, John P. Caspersen, Jean-François Côté, Jeffery P. Dech, Adam R. Dick, Karin van Ewijk, Richard Fournier, Tristan R. H. Goodbody, Chris R. Hennigar, Antoine Leboeuf, Olivier R. van Lier, Joan E. Luther, David A. MacLean, Grant McCartney, Gaetan Pelletier, Jean-Francois Prieur, Piotr Tompalski, Paul M. Treitz, Joanne C. White, and Murray E. Woods

A business case for climate change adaptation by forest industry in central Canada: Presented at the CIF/IFC 2020 National Conference and 112th Annual General Meeting held 15–17 Sept. 2020Sheri A. Andrews-Key, Paul A. LeBlanc, and Harry W. Nelson

Book Announcements Introduction to Forestry and Natural Resources 2nd Edition

Book Reviews The World’s First Woman Forester: A Path Through the Trees Mary Sutherland – forester, botanist & woman’s advocate

Dendroecology, Principles and Practices

NEWS FROM THE INSTITUTE

CIF-IFC National Office was pleased to host two virtual forums in February 2021 that brought together stakeholders from across the forest sector. The purpose of each forum was to identify needs and gaps to support knowledge transfer of innovative tools, technologies and research in both Central and Western Canada. Both forums featured short presentations made by researchers and experts providing both national and regional/local perspectives followed by moderated breakout discussion sessions to facilitate interaction among participants and speakers.

Innovative Forest Solutions Forum Hosted in collaboration with the Manitoba and Saskatchewan Sections, the forum took place on February 23, 2021 and was well-attended by 39 participants. The forum facilitated the dissemination of current research and technologies within two research areas relevant to Saskatchewan and Manitoba:

• Soil mapping

• Growth and yield of trees under global change and adaptive silviculture

Practitioners Forum: Strategies to Advance Sustainable ForestsHosted in collaboration with the CIF-IFC Cariboo and Rocky Mountain Sections, this forum was well-attended by 59 participants and took place on February 25, 2021. Similar to the forum above, it facilitated the sharing of current research and technological advancements within two research areas relevant to central British Columbia and Alberta:

• Characterization of forest biomass to better support the bioeconomy

• Growth and yield of trees under global change and adaptive silviculture

A summary report of group discussions for each forum can be found on the CIF-IFC website below:

cif-ifc.org/innovative-forest-solutions-forum-presentations

cif-ifc.org/practitioners-forum-presentations

These knowledge exchange events were offered free of charge and provided valuable learning and sharing opportunities for forest practitioners, including a space to build working relationships between developers and end-users, as well as foster increased awareness of new tools, techniques and technological advancements in forest research.

Virtual Forest Practitioner Forums

Mark your calendars! The 2021 CIF-IFC National Conference & 113th Annual General Meeting (AGM) will take place October 6-7, 2021. Hosted in collaboration with CIF-IFC Cariboo Section, the Conference will, once again, be an entirely virtual event, hosted through a digital yet fully interactive platform.

Under the theme “Rooted in Resilience,” the Conference will explore the challenges faced in a changing forest sector and how innovation, reconciliation and diverse perspectives can offer a path forward in this uncertain reality. The Conference program will showcase the changing approaches to forest management in Canada and abroad to address social license, a low-carbon economy, and conservation of old-growth forests. Participants can also expect to learn about novel approaches that have allowed the forest sector and resource-based communities to recover from massive forest disturbances.

This year’s event will, as with previous in-person Conferences, enable open dialogue and discussion, promote knowledge exchange, facilitate networking opportunities and feature numerous social events. More information, including details about registration, can be found on the event webpage: cif-ifc.org/2021-conference-agm

We hope to see you there virtually in October!

Virtual 2021 CIF-IFC National Conference & 113th Annual General Meeting

The Forestry Chronicle is now on social media! Be sure to give us a follow to stay up to date on the latest Forestry Chronicle news and issues.

@TFCJournal



https://pubs.cif-ifc.org/doi/abs/10.5558/tfc2021-011






























Paying homage to CIF-IFC’s longstanding historyAs part of the brand refresh, a Heritage Logo was also developed and will be used for merchandise and specialty items, such as Awards produced for the National Awards Program. You will notice that the Heritage Logo incorporates the iconic tree from the original CIF-IFC logo. With the CIF-IFC being the oldest forest society in Canada, it was important for us to pay tribute to the Institute's legacy dating back to 1908.

Show your CIF-IFC spirit! Branded merchandise coming soon…We are excited to announce that soon, you will be able to sport CIF-IFC branded merchandise! Our refreshed website (anticipated to launch this summer) will feature an e-store where you will be able to find a variety of items with the new CIF-IFC logo, as well as a ‘vintage’ line highlighting our Heritage Logo. Stay tuned!

In 2018, we began to explore the idea of a corporate identity brand refresh project and contracted a graphic designer to begin the creative process. The project was put on hold for a few years, and then in late-2020, was revisited and started again. The process was collaborative, involving a number of check-ins, creative presentations, and opportunities for feedback and iterations from CIF-IFC Staff, National Executive, and the Board of Directors and Chairs.

After an immense amount of hard work, collaboration, and a thorough creative process, we were very pleased to have debuted our new logo and refreshed brand in May 2021. The new logo is refined, elegant, and forward thinking. The icon represents a multitude of symbolisms and meanings, reinforcing our mandate to maintain and promote the integrity of the forest sector to all peoples. Like the branches of a tree, we are continuously growing and moving toward new and exciting opportunities.

CIF-IFC has a new look! Did you hear?

SCHOOL RECIPIENT

Cégep de St-Félicien Nadia Bourque

Collège Boréal Claire Binette

College of New Caledonia Natasha Lebiadowski

Northern Alberta Institute of Technology Gareth Carey

University of Alberta Fionnuala Carroll

University College of the North Hadley Stinson

Université de Moncton, campus d’Edmundston Naomi McMahon

University of Northern British Columbia MacKenzie Kerr

University of Toronto Alexandra Farkas

Silver Ring CeremoniesCongratulations to the CIF-IFC Silver Ring recipients and CIF-IFC Gold Medal winners across Canada for 2020-2021! The Silver Ring Program represents an ever-evolving commitment to welcome new graduates to the profession of forestry, and uphold them to the CIF-IFC Code of Ethics, and unite forestry graduates at a national level. This long-standing tradition has been in place since 1967! The Institute is pleased to see that schools and students are still finding ways to celebrate this great achievement with their friends, family, and colleagues, despite the limitations presented by COVID-19 health and safety precautions.

Collège Boréal - Claire Binette.

(Left) MacKenzie Kerr from UNBC with Nicholas Dormaar, CIF Cariboo Section. (Right) Cégep de St-Félicien - Nadia Bourque.

Silver Ring Ceremony hosted by the Cariboo Section for Students from UNBC and CNC.

11

CNC - Natasha Lebiadowski.

Université de Moncton, campus d’Edmundston - Naomi McMahon.

Don’t see your school listed? Email us at [email protected] to be recognized in the next issue of The Leader!

As the CIF-IFC and its members have a passion for forests and nature, the new colour palette commends this appreciation with attractive green and blue tones, and a pop of orange and yellow.

In case you missed it: Check your inbox to read the full story on the CIF-IFC logo and brand refresh! An email was sent to all members on May 26, 2021 with the subject line “Special Announcement: The new CIF-IFC logo is finally here! / Annonce spéciale : Le nouveau logo de l'IFC-CIF est enfin là !”.

Thank you! A special thank you to those who took the time to complete the Survey for CIF-IFC Logo Refresh. We received 231 responses and the majority were in favour of the logo and visual identity being updated.

NEWS FROM THE INSTITUTE




SECTION HIGHLIGHTS SECTION HIGHLIGHTS

CIF Algonquin Section Partners in Late Winter Forest Science SeminarOn March 2, 2021, the Canadian Institute of Forestry’s (CIF) Algonquin Section hosted a virtual forest science seminar in partnership with the Friends of the Petawawa Research Forest and the Near North Chapter of the Ontario Woodlot Association (OWA). There were four presentations during the session including: Bioheat Options and Opportunities by Glen Prevost of FPInnovations, The Economic Case for Tree Marking by Al Stinson, Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (retired), A Novel Control for Invasive Buckthorn by Allison Winmill of Lallemand Plant Care, and Community Forest Owners Cooperative Pilots by John Pineau of the Ontario Woodlot Association. The event was well attended with over 30 participants. A draw for donated items from each organization was held, with the three lucky winners receiving a CIF ceramic mug, a Friends hat and sweater, and an OWA emergency first aid kit. The Algonquin Section has several other events in the queue for late spring and summer, in hopes that the pandemic will finally be under control.

A Field Trip and Lunch at the Shaw WoodsOn Wednesday, December 9, 2020, several members of the CIF Algonquin Section took part in a field trip to Shaw Woods near Eganville, with this year’s Algonquin College Forestry Tech Students. The late fall day was cool with snow starting to accumulate on the ground, but the fresh air energized the group, who were all just a bit tired of zoom lectures and of being inside more than usual.

The students were treated to a catered lunch that included salads, sandwiches and wraps, courtesy of the Algonquin Section. Prizes including t-shirts, sweatshirts and hats were given out to students

achieving high academic levels so far during the year. In addition, all of the students received wireless chargers from LimGeomatics, who had provided a guest lecturer in the program’s remote sensing class earlier in the term.

Algonquin Section Councillor John Pineau, and member Peter Arbour (also the Forest Tech Program Coordinator) tagged-teamed an impromptu presentation on the benefits and value of CIF membership to the students and were able to recruit several new student members and student reps for the Section Council. The Council welcomes Cyril Cook

and Brittany Mackenzie as the Algonquin College Reps for our Section for 2020-21!

The CIF Algonquin Section has a long and positive history with Algonquin College’s Forest Tech Program including the silver ring ceremony, an annual awards dinner, special events and activities, and an annual pizza lunch and presentation. Although there have been some adjustments this year due to the pandemic, there has still been good interaction and engagement with the students. In fact, a large contingent of students has volunteered to help with the annual memorial tree plants in the Nipissing Forest and Algonquin Park in May 2021.

Rings Delivered!The Northwestern Ontario Section has always celebrated the accomplishments of students graduating from the forestry schools at the Silver Ring Ceremonies. These events are typically led and organized by students. Last year (2020) was a bit of a downer as planned events were abruptly cancelled, or went online. The Pandemic would not defeat us again!

In 2021 both schools held online ring ceremonies. Our Section helps try to ensure that the ring continues to be a ‘gift’ by helping them find donors. At Lakehead University, Brelynn Howard secured donations from the Faculty of Natural Resources Management to cover their ring costs, and from Greenmantle Forest Management Inc. to cover event costs. Though we weren’t able to hold an in-person event, those funds will be available for next year. At Confederation College, Marissa Leger pulled together donations from KBM Resources Group, Faculty at Confederation College, Rutter Urban Forestry, Domtar Dryden and our Section to cover the costs of their rings. Thanks to all the donors for their support.

I did my part by delivering rings to Lakehead students — at home — as they studied for their exams. It was a truly great experience to see the smiles on their faces (or in their eyes) from a safe distance. All the students received their rings in time for their ceremonies, and Brian Campbell and I did our best to deliver the Ring Ceremony address to the two classes. Congratulations and best of luck to the classes of 2021!

PREPARED AND SUBMITTED BY:

CIF Algonquin SectionPREPARED AND SUBMITTED BY:

Doug Reid, CIF 2nd Vice PresidentCIF Northwestern Ontario Section

Algonquin SECTION Northwestern Ontario SECTION

Algonquin Section Director Allison Winmill presents on control of Buckthorn during the recent Late Winter Forest Science Seminar.

An Algonquin Forestry Tech Student with his safety-conscious snowman at Shaw Woods.

Lakehead University Students show off their silver rings. Pictured (clockwise from top left) are Anders Van Damme, Taylor Hall, Michael Jamie Jacques, Michael Dyer, Jacob Worrall and Brelynn Howard (hand only), and Colin Lee-Mitchell.

Canada’s valued forests and urban areas are threatened by invasive species.

Help us better understand the current health of Canada’s forests, become a community scientist, and report the health of trees in your area!

www.invasivespeciescentre.ca/treecheckform

Tree Check Form

Survey your trees!





La Cité – OVS’ Forestry SchoolWhile recent pandemics may not have been kind to many, the Ottawa Valley Section (OVS) of the CIF has continued to be the voice of the forest practitioner in the nation’s capital. The Ottawa Valley Section is indeed “special” – the only CIF Section that straddles two provinces (Ontario and Quebec), that operates in a bilingual format in a mix of forest, field and city that includes over 1.5 million people around the nation’s capital. The annual December Forest Seminar on December 9, 2020 was a great success with the topic “Climate Change and Biodiversity Loss” co-sponsored by the Eastern Ontario Model Forest. It featured speakers from the Haliburton Forest (a 40,000-ha block of private land forest near Algonquin Park), the Canadian Forest Service and Dobson Farms - a local farm engaged in sustainable forestry practices. We are proud that our OVS Council is involved in other key, national CIF committees: Chair Ken Farr sits on the Policy & Governance Committee, with Jim Farrell helping out on the Forest Advocacy Committee.

Which leads us to La Cité – Ontario’s largest francophone college and the only forestry program in the Ottawa Valley Section (Ontario has 1.5 million francophones out of a population of 14.7 million). In past years, OVS helped deliver memorable Ring Ceremonies to the graduating class and presented the Gold Medal Award to the top La Cité student. Again, restricted by COVID, the Section decided to send an inspirational letter from Chairman Ken to each of the 35 graduates - extolling the virtues of being a forest professional and of being a member of CIF.

The history of La Cité is an interesting one. Its roots are in Algonquin College in Pembroke, ON which began operation in 1967 when colleges replaced “vocational schools” throughout the province. The forestry program was first established, in English only, in 1969 and quickly became the “flagship program” of the College. Six years later in 1975, the course was offered in English and French. In 1980, Reynold Richemond, a young Haitian-born forester, a Laval University graduate with experience working for the Quebec government as well as CIDA in Africa, was hired as one of three permanent professors of the burgeoning faculty. He has stayed with the College since that time and is today the Coordinator of the course now situated in Ottawa, ON.

In the 1980’s there was a strong movement in Ontario to secure language rights for francophones faced with rising assimilation and below average salaries. Bill 8 – guaranteeing French language services to Ontario francophones in designated municipalities became a reality. Francophone-directed School Boards for elementary and secondary schools (in both the Public and Catholic systems) were created. Similarly, the post-secondary system was looking to establish its own francophone presence. In 1990 La Cité Collégiale was formed in Ottawa, with the francophone forestry program brought from Algonquin College in Pembroke to a campus in Hawkesbury, ON in 1990 and finally to Ottawa in 1995. The school changed its name from La Cité Collégiale to La Cité in 2013.

Today, the College has about 5,000 students in total with 30 students/year graduating from what is now called, Techniques en environnement forestier. Luc Rainville, a Cité graduate was elected CIF President in 2019/20, the first from La Cité. Uniquely situated on the ON/QC border, the College continues to attract about 60% of its students from Quebec with the other 40% from Ontario, New Brunswick, western Canada and even some African countries. About 1,500 have graduated from the course over the years which has established a unique partnership with the Université de Moncton for those wanting to continue their degrees in forestry. Today La Cité has three programs within the Techniques en environment forestier framework – “Pratiques” (a 1-year course as a “forest worker”) Technique (a 2-year technical course) and the Technologue course (3 years). With solid, consistent support from the College administration, the forestry course has changed as society has changed. Today, it features a diverse and enthusiastic Consultation Committee drawn from the forestry community to help set course direction. It also features almost the same number of female graduates as male graduates with more courses exploring the environmental/ecology and IT sides of forestry. An urban forestry/arboriculture course is also offered. The future looks bright for La Cité - OVS hopes to present more forestry rings there next year in person. Vive La Cité!


Michael Rosen, R.P.F., Director CIF Ottawa Valley Section

Ottawa Valley SECTION

Victor Brunette, OVS Council, CIF Gold Medal Winner, Mike Rosen, Director OVS and Reynold Richemond, Course Coordinator (2015).

The Vancouver CIF Section has had a very active year despite the challenges of COVID-19We have been able to host a full season of virtual “dinner” meetings this year with good online attendance by members. We have hosted a total of seven meetings so far with presentations via Zoom with approximately one meeting per month starting in Sept 2020. Presentations have been followed by lively question and answer sessions with the Zoom medium not seeming to inhibit members from voicing their opinions and asking questions.

We have had a wide range of presentation topics including Current and Future Benefits of LiDAR, First Nations in the Forest Sector, Achieving Social Licence, In the Shadow of the Red Cedar, Caribou Management, Landscape Unit Planning and Forest Stewardship, and, finally, Advances in Forestry and What Still Needs to be Done.

We have been honoured to have a bounty of renowned and respected experts as our speakers this season including Nicholas Coop, UBC Forestry Professor; Cameron Brown, Forsite Consultants; Christine Gelowitz, CEO of the Association of BC Forest Professionals; Alexa Young, BC Council of Forest Industries' Vice President of Government and Public Affairs; Wade Davis, Author and UBC Professor of Anthropology; Cole Burton, Canada Research Chair in Terrestrial Mammal Conservation and UBC Forest Management Assistant Professor; Dianne Nicholls, BC's Chief Forester; and John Innes, UBC's Dean of Forestry.

A couple of fortunate outcomes of virtual meetings due to Covid this year have been 1) the ability to more easily arrange speakers that are not local to Greater Vancouver, and 2) the ability to attract members and others to participate that would normally find it too far to travel to our meetings. While we all miss the social aspects and networking opportunities provided by in-person meetings, we are considering if we can continue to include a virtual component to future events when COVID is over.

Our eighth and final meeting of the season will be held on May 25 when the topic will be Window on the World: Forest without Borders Projects Overseas. Speakers will be Forest without Borders representatives Peter Ackhurst, Alan Fry, and Jerry Benner. For more information about our monthly Dinner Meetings or the Vancouver Section in general please visit: www.cifvancouver.org

Not all forestry jobs require a university degree. As the regulator of professional forestry in BC, the Association of BC Forest Professionals offers Reserved Titles for several categories of Associate Registrants: l Forest Technician and Certificationl Natural Resource Professionall Accredited Timber Cruiser (ATC)l Accredited Timber Evaluator (ATE)l Silvicultural Accredited Surveyor (SAS) Learn more about the pathways to a career

in forestry and how you can qualify at:

www.abcfp.ca

There’s room in

foresTry for everyone


CIF Vancouver Section

Vancouver SECTION





CommunicationsThe CIF-RMS held its second virtual Annual General Meeting (AGM) on April 29, 2021 using Zoom. It was attended by 23 members. A review of the past year’s activities was provided and an opportunity to engage with the membership provided valuable feedback to CIF-RMS council. The AGM minutes once finalized will be posted on the CIF-RMS website www.cif-rms.org. The CIF-RMS launched social media accounts in 2019. Join us on Instagram @cif_rms, Twitter @CIF_RMS, and Facebook @CIFrockymountain for Alberta forestry content and CIF updates!

Student EngagementAs part of our regular efforts to introduce the CIF-RMS to potential members, we held a virtual CIF introduction presentation to students at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) on January 18, 2021 and University of Alberta (UofA) on February 2, 2021. For the second year in a row, the annual Chili Cook-off was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The UofA will provide a team to this year’s Quiz Bowl to be held in October.

AwardsThe CIF Rocky Mountain Section presented the Tree of Life award (virtually) to Tom Lakusta and Sharad Karmacharya during the CIF-RMS Annual General Meeting on April 29, 2021. These individuals will be similarly announced at the CIF National Awards ceremony to be held in October 2021.

The 2020 student award winners were announced. At the University of Alberta, Douglas Burton received the RMS-CIF Bursary, Fionnuala Carroll received the CIF Gold Medal, and Dominique Letourneau received the RMS Field Camp award. At the Northern Alberta Institute of Forestry, Gareth Carey received the CIF Gold Medal, and Justin Parsons received the RMS Book Prize.

Technical SessionsA Technical Session, originally scheduled for the April 2020 was held on November 19, 2020. The event, “Timber Supply in Alberta’s Forests – These are Risky Times” was CIF-RMS’s first foray into virtual conferencing. There were around 100 online participants with 12 speakers. Thanks goes to Dr. Vic Lieffers from the University of Alberta for organizing and moderating the program, and to Jeff Renton who managed the virtual event using the Remo platform. The Tech Session concluded that the sustainable way of increasing wood supply is by growing more wood through tree improvement and intensive silviculture programs to increase timber productivity, reduce rotation lengths, and close timber supply gaps. A summary for this event has been published in the Forestry Chronicle. “Wood supply challenges in Alberta – Growing more timber is the only sustainable solution” by Bradley D. Pinno, Barb R. Thomas and Victor J. Lieffers Available at:www.pubs.cif-ifc.org/doi/pdf/10.5558/tfc2021-012

The presentations for this event have been posted on the CIF National webpage: www.cif-ifc.org/events/cif-technical-workshop-timber-supply-in-albertas-forests-these-are-risky-times

CIF-RMS collaborated with CIF National and the CIF Cariboo Section on a virtual conference held on February 25, 2021. The purpose of the Practitioners Forum: Strategies to Advance Sustainable Forests was to identify needs and gaps to support knowledge transfer of innovative tools, technologies and research in Western Canada. Fifty-nine participants heard presentations from subject matter experts and took part in moderated group discussions on two topic areas: 1) Characterization of forest biomass to better support the bioeconomy; and 2) Growth and yield of trees under global change and adaptive silviculture. Presentations from the event are in the process of being posted on the CIF National webpage: www.cif-ifc.org/practitioners-forum-presentations

The Spring Technical Session entitled, “The Changing Face of Silviculture: From Basic to Intensive Management” was held on Thursday, April 22, 2021. The technical session was geared towards practitioners interested in the sustainability of Alberta’s forests as influenced by the use of different silvicultural practices, ranging from basic to intensive management. This virtual conference hosted as many as 82 participants from Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan. Thanks goes to Andy Shandro from the Province of Alberta and Dr. Brad Pinno from the University of Alberta for organizing and moderating the Program. Julie Benedik and Lindsay Dent managed the technical logistics and the Remo platform.

Presentations will be made available for online access.


CIF Rocky Mountain Section

Rocky Mountain SECTION




Getting to know Vicki I am a graduate of Lakehead University’s forestry degree and master’s degree programs. During my school years, I spent my summers supervising tree plants, site preparation and aerial spray programs which prepared me early for my Silviculture career path. The first half of my career was spent working for industry in Saskatchewan.

In the second half of my forestry adventures (so far), I continue to work for the Forest Service at the Ministry of Environment here in Saskatchewan. I have been a CIF member since I was a student at Lakehead.

Recently, I have enjoyed terms as our Section’s Treasurer, Chair and now Director, as well as representing Saskatchewan on the national membership committee. As an involved member of the Saskatchewan Section, the CIF has provided me with many opportunities to meet new people, work on interesting and important committees, gain new skills and experience and make a difference for our local forestry community.

Member Q & A

Member Profile: Vicki Gauthier

Academic background: HBScF & MF, Lakehead University

Affiliated CIF Section: Saskatchewan

Years Active in CIF: 30

When did your interest in forests begin and what led you to pursue a career in the forest sector?

Like many foresters, I spent my childhood outdoors enjoying our family cabin in the woods. By the end of high school, I knew I wanted to study science and continue to be outside. A degree in forestry was my best option for this and Lakehead University’s forestry degree was where I found my love of silviculture and forestry people.

Could you describe a few memorable experiences or highlights you have had in your career?

An early memorable experience I had was taking a high school student out to experience a typical field day in the career of a forester. Twenty years later on a Forestry Teacher’s Tour, I met that student again and she’s now a high school science teacher. She told me she never forgot that day in the woods with me and it influenced her decision to become a science teacher! Of course, we took a selfie together.

What motivated you to become a CIF-IFC member and what does being a CIF-IFC member mean to you?

One of our instructors at Lakehead University was Sarah Gooding and she inspired me to join the CIF in my first year. Sarah tirelessly helped and encouraged the student committee with any CIF event and she is still a fantastic role model for what a CIF member should be. I am proud to be a CIF member today because of the great initiatives this organization continues to pursue, the great members I’ve met from across the country and that the CIF is the national voice of Canadian forest practitioners!

What words of advice would you offer a new practitioner entering the sector?

My advice to new forest practitioners is to join the CIF (if you aren’t already a student member) and get involved in your Section’s council. You will learn organizational and planning skills through the CIF that will help you at all stages of your career. And you will meet the best people from across Canada who are just as passionate about forestry as you are!

My mom and I travelling to the Newfoundland & Labrador CIF National Conference and AGM in 2013 (near St. John’s, NL).

Field tour stop (near Weyakwin, SK).




Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt comprises 15 properties: the Rocky Point property, consisting of 1100 ha, is the southernmost point on Vancouver Island. This land contains Garry oak ecosystems, which are among the rarest ecosystems in Canada. Rocky Point is also a hot spot for wildlife and species at risk, including some of the most obscure threatened and endangered species.

Natural Resources Canada’s Federal Lands Program assists CFB Esquimalt in managing their lands and protecting natural resources as well as species at risk. James Miskelly, a Forestry Officer with the Federal Lands Program, explains: “We consult with the Department of National Defense on their projects and determine what their priorities are. We support them to figure out whether their footprint has a potential impact on species at risk.” For more than twenty years, the Federal Lands Program has been helping to steward the Rocky Point property. For the last ten years, this has been part of a more intensive restoration project. This project seeks to restore the natural structure of degraded meadows and oak woodlands through the removal of young conifers and non-native shrubs and has been supported by funding from the Department of National Defence and Environment and Climate Change Canada.

Southeastern Vancouver Island ecosystems evolved with frequent, low-intensity fire. Most of these fires were set by Indigenous peoples to maintain important food plants, like great camas. Charcoal records

show that fire has been common on the landscape for at least 8000 years. In the absence of fire, some oak woodlands around Victoria have progressed to tall thickets of native shrubs, while others have converted to Douglas-fir forests. Douglas-firs quickly outgrow the original oak woodland, which kills sun-loving native flora. Invasive species also pose a threat to Garry oak ecosystems. When scotch broom and gorse enter a meadow area they convert it into a dense shrub thicket, simultaneously eliminating the light that used to reach the ground level and dropping litter. They change nutrient and fire dynamics and obliterate the original meadow until there is nothing alive under them.

To restore the oak woodlands, the Federal Lands Program removes scotch broom, gorse and young conifers to aid the natural ecosystem. Young conifers are killed by girdling when they can’t be safely felled. Prescribed fire, another method of restoring the ecosystems, was reintroduced in 2017 and will be an important method of maintenance for these ecosystems. After the removal of the invasive species, the Federal Lands Program adds plugs or seeds of the original meadow flora to areas left bare after treatment to recompose the ecosystem. This also stops the ecosystems from becoming repopulated by opportunistic vegetation.

Though Garry oak ecosystems occupy less than 1% of Canada’s land mass, roughly 20% of the plants that have been listed under Canada’s Species at Risk Act (SARA) occur in these ecosystems. The Rocky Point property specifically supports the largest Canadian population of 6 different endangered plant species.

The Rocky Point project has its challenges. Conifer-in-filling because of disruptive fire regimes and invasive species are common to Garry

An open meadow with Garry oak, badly invaded by Scotch Broom. The same scene after removal of Scotch broom, with native understory flowers blooming.

Protecting One of Canada’s Rarest Ecosystems: The Federal Lands Program’s Restoration

Project at CFB Esquimalt’s Rocky Point Property

oak ecosystems. It is difficult to develop techniques to keep up with the regrowth of invasive species. It is also challenging to handle the biomass generated by the removal of shrubs and trees that have no value, without causing disturbance to the environment. However, it is extremely important work. “Garry oak ecosystems are almost gone from our area,” explains Miskelly. “They’re down to a few percent of their original cover on the land within a very urbanized environment. There are very few big pieces of Garry Oak Ecosystem left.”

The work that the Federal Lands Program does at the Rocky Point Property is also critical to the recovery of the disproportionate number of endangered species that live there. If the property were neglected, these species could not be recovered in Canada. So far, this restoration project has improved training conditions, enhanced habitat for rare species and reduced fire hazard. To maintain this progress, the site will require stewardship indefinitely.

“Rocky Point is a very special place,” says Miskelly. “It is not a park or a protected area but it happens to protect a very large and diverse Garry oak ecosystem landscape. It’s one of the only places in Canada where you can see the interplay between all of the habitat types, like oak woodlands, prairies, the wetlands and the drylands. It might be the only place in western North America where wolves are still hunting in an oak savannah. Rocky Point is a place highly worthy of care and stewardship.”

In the wake of this project, the native spring flora, like great camas, foothill sedge and endangered seaside bird’s-foot lotus, has come back. Suppressed for so long, the Garry oak ecosystem’s characteristic plants struggled under the shade of broom and gorse. Today, they are thriving. Species at risk are also responding. Large mammals, like Roosevelt elk and wolves, have increasingly been spotted on site in the last five years.

A Garry oak woodland immediately after removal of a dense growth of young conifers; understorey vegetation is severely suppressed.

The same scene after seeding, natural recovery, and prescribed fire.




In 2018, the Canadian Institute of Forestry (CIF-IFC) and the Centre for Social Intelligence (CSI), launched the Gender Equity in Canada’s Forest Sector National Action Plan initiative, the first public-private sector partnership in Canada’s forest sector focused on gender equality.

Now, three years later, all of the deliverables set out in the initiative and more have been achieved, and stakeholders across the forest sector have taken action in their spheres of influence to make it more welcoming to everyone.

LGBTQ2S+, and people living with disabilities are all under-represented in Canada’s forest sector, from technical to executive-level positions.

“It is incredible to see all that has been achieved over the past three years, over and above our initial expectations. Especially since we had to pivot to online meetings during a time of great uncertainty as a result of COVID-19,” explains Luc M. Rainville, CIF-IFC Past President.

Working collaboratively with the National Steering Committee, a framework for action within three pillars of activity were outlined.

“These 3 years have been action-packed! In addition to what has been accomplished through the initiative, our partners have implemented actions in their own spheres of influence as well, from new workplace initiatives to representation on Boards and much more. These actions show the wide-ranging impacts of our efforts,” mentions Kelly Cooper, CEO and Founder, CSI.

Moving forward, the next phase of this initiative will focus on a regional context by engaging forest sector organizations along the supply chain, through diversity and inclusion training. These efforts will lead to greater impacts on the ground. Additional research will also be conducted to fill data gaps identified in the first phase.

“We believe these actions will create a sector where everyone feels they belong. A more diverse and inclusive workforce has the potential to strengthen the sector making it more resilient, profitable and productive,” says Cooper.

Research shows there is a strong business advantage for supporting gender equality in the workplace, including better financial performance, employee recruitment and business outcomes.

“The CIF-IFC is proud of everything that has been accomplished in the first phase of this project and we are eager to continue this important and timely work to move the forest sector forward,” concludes Rainville.

Stay tuned for the next project update!

Gender Equity in Canada’s Forest Sector PROJECT UPDATE

Guided by a shared vision that “Canada has a diverse and inclusive workforce that provides the foundation for a thriving forest sector and healthy communities”, the National Steering Committee, comprised of 16 leaders from government, industry, academia, Indigenous, and non-profit organizations, have provided strategic guidance on the National Action Plan and framework for action.

The initiative’s mission to lead transformational change on gender equality in the forest sector, working collaboratively to engage, attract, retain and advance women has expanded over the 3 years to encompass diversity and inclusion as a whole. Current data shows that women, Indigenous peoples, new Canadians, visible minorities,

PILLARS OF ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHTS

1. Building the Evidence Base Establish a baseline through data collection and analysis on gender representation and equality in the forest sector regarding women and underrepresented groups, as well as identify gaps in future research to pursue.

a. “Evidence on Diversity in Canada’s Forest Sector” Examines data related to women and underrepresented groups in Canada in order to show past progress and better understand the current situation and challenges.

b. “Indigenous Women’s Leadership in the Forest Sector” Profiles the accomplishments of Indigenous women in the forest sector, through interviews, aiming to shed a different light and appreciation for their contributions.

c. “Qualitative Interviews with Women in the Forest Sector” Highlights women from various positions, their experiences and reasons on what drew them to the sector.

d. 10 Principles for Gender Equity Guiding principles organizations can follow.

2. Fostering an Inclusive Culture Develop tools and resources to support the sector in developing a more welcoming workplace culture.

a. “A Plan to Eliminate Resistance to Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace” Designed for organization leaders/change agents seeking to advance gender diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

b. “Inclusive Leadership – Creating a Culture of Empowerment, Accountability and Belonging” Highlights best practices from leading companies certified in gender equality.

c. “Getting into Team – Leveraging Power and Privilege” Outlines how to become an ally, including leveraging and sharing power and privilege for good.

3. Repositioning the Sector Develop branding and targeted communications that attract and retain underrepresented groups; promote the benefits of diversity and inclusion; measure and track performance.

a. Branded the initiative as “Free to Grow in Forestry” and launched a microsite (www.freetogrowinforestry.ca) that is a one-stop-shop to learn more about the initiative, the partners involved, and resources to take action. All the resources and reports listed above can be found on the website, with additional ones being added over the next few months.

b. Implemented a targeted communications plan through the initiative’s social media channels and beyond with the development of a new “Free to Grow in Forestry” podcast series. The first episode aired in May 2021 and future episodes will be posted monthly. The podcast will feature guests from all groups in the forest sector, experts and organizations sharing their stories on inclusion and diversity.

c. Developed a results framework to report and monitor progress.

The Free to Grow in Forestry podcast is now live!

Listen anywhere, anytime—find us on your favourite

podcast platforms or tune in on the Free to Grow website.

freetogrowinforestry.ca/podcast

For each pillar of action, three sub-committees that include members of the National Steering Committee and other stakeholders of the forest sector met regularly to develop strategic implementation plans specific to their respective pillar.

Stay connected by following Free to Grow in Forestry on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube or subscribing to the email list. Help spread the word by

using the hashtag #ForestryForward.



https://www.freetogrowinforestry.ca/podcast

http://www.facebook.com/freetogrowinforestry/

http://www.linkedin.com/showcase/free-to-grow-in-forestry/

http://www.twitter.com/freetogrow

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQIFrL8atNDNW7yZ1gazqHg

http://www.instagram.com/freetogrowinforestry/


http://www.twitter.com/freetogrow_

http://www.facebook.com/freetogrowinforestry/


http://www.linkedin.com/showcase/free-to-grow-in-forestry/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQIFrL8atNDNW7yZ1gazqHg


The coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) was a defining issue for the year 2020. What role did the forest sector play in meeting challenges like PPE shortages early in the pandemic?

Canada’s forest sector embraced our “essential industry” status early on during the pandemic. Our member’s top priority then – and now - is the health and safety of their employees as well as the workers throughout our supply chain. Without them, essential products that Canadians need from building materials, pellets and biofuels for heating systems, pulp for masks and hospital gowns, as well as toilet paper, paper towels, and sanitary wipes would simply not be available.

Foresters are deeply rooted within their communities. Within a month of COVID-19 arriving in Canada, FPAC members raised over $530,000 in donations to support pandemic relief measures. They also donated significant amounts of personal protective equipment, food items, and other necessities.

Other industries have faced challenges in keeping their workers COVID-19 free. How has the forest sector dealt with worker health and safety concerns in the workplace?

From the beginning of the pandemic, our sector worked quickly to put procedures in place that minimized exposure among employees, contractors, and management, and many implemented rapid testing and other contact tracing procedures to manage community spread. As vaccination efforts have ramped up, many of our companies continue to work with local health authorities to ensure employees and community members have opportunities to get their own doses.

Record lumber prices have been linked to the construction boom in the United States of America (USA) and Canada. How is the forest sector keeping up with the demand? How sustainable is this?

While Canadian mills have done their best to adjust to the increase in demand for lumber, market conditions and regulatory uncertainty in Canada have hampered our ability to bring new production capacity online.

Although we do expect the situation to stabilize, it remains unclear for how long demand—and by extension, prices—will remain high.

In response to the pandemic, companies in the forest sector have adjusted how they conduct business and operate. What do you anticipate the future outlook to be? Will these changes be permanent or are they temporary?

From an FPAC perspective, we are seeing more flexibility around hiring options (attracting talent from a larger geographic area), as well as growing internal capacity in organizing and attending virtual meetings, conferences and training. We have heard some truly innovative ways that members are rolling out new training programs (i.e. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion training) to staff, and the positive aspects of virtual training are likely here to stay.

How is the forest sector doing in terms of meeting current and future labour demands? New initiatives like Free to Grow in Forestry and Take Your Place are promoting more inclusion and diversity in the workplaces. What role can diverse and inclusive work cultures play in making the sector accessible to everyone?

The pursuit of diversity and inclusion is a priority for companies across our sector due not only to the moral imperative to support underrepresented groups, but also because of the effect diversity can have on team performance. Numerous studies support the conclusion that a diverse workforce is better equipped to solve problems, improve productivity, and improve mental health outcomes for employees. Likewise, strong corporate commitments to ESG (environmental, social and corporate governance) across Canada's forest sector reflect a growing consensus that these principles are central to our future growth and success.

The Government of Canada recently released the Federal Budget 2021. What role can the forest sector play in meeting future bioeconomy goals?

FPAC was pleased that the recent federal Budget allocated over $54 million to spur innovation in the forest sector through the Investments in Forest Industry Transformation (IFIT) Program.

Q & A with: Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC) Senior Vice President, Kate Lindsay The Future Outlook of Canada’s Forest Sector as a Resilient, Essential Service

The forest sector has already made significant investments in technologies to reduce wood waste and improve full fibre utilization, pursue opportunities for next-generation bio-refinery capabilities, and to make new bioproducts. Industry and government investments in research and innovation have led to a multitude of new bioproducts that displace more carbon intensive materials, reduce emissions, and create jobs – including the recent development of the world’s first biodegradable mask by Canadian researchers at FPInnovations - made from Canadian wood fibre. We expect our sector to become even more engaged in the bioeconomy as we move forward.

The previous USA administration and the Canadian forest sector were at odds with significant trade issues concerning lumber disputes. Should Canada continue to expand its international market trades?

Over the past several years, Canadian firms have steadily worked to diversify their exports to include emerging markets in Asia and more established markets in Europe and elsewhere. While the United States remains the largest global importer of Canadian forest products, Canada is also the largest source of pulp for China and second-largest for India, as well as the second-largest source of wood products for Japan. We expect these relationships to be maintained and developed further in the coming years.

In March of 2020, many articles were published concerning a huge increase in demand for toilet paper and other paper products? Do you think the public image of the forest sector has changed during the pandemic?

The COVID-19 pandemic made clear – in a way that no one could have predicted – that Canada’s forest sector provides products that are essential to life. Whether it’s toilet paper, sanitary wipes, food packaging or lumber – it all comes from the forest. From our perspective, there is a huge opportunity to build greater awareness and support among the public, investors, and government decision-makers for Canadian forestry and the sustainable products we produce. We are currently working on a campaign to do just that over the next year.

Any final thoughts on the future outlook of Canada’s forest sector? How optimistic should we be?

This past year brought with it the biggest health and economic crisis of our lifetimes, underscoring the greatest strengths and vulnerabilities of our country. For the forest sector, 2021 opens a window of opportunity to develop a long-term plan to accelerate innovation in the forest bioeconomy and forestry clean tech, make more forest-based products here at home, expand export markets, build bigger and better with Canadian wood, keep communities safer from fire, and get more Canadians working. You can learn more about FPAC’s vision toward recovery here: https://bit.ly/3odlxG2

Could you share your favourite forest-related story that relates to resilience, innovation and/or overcoming a unique challenge from the past year?

One of our proudest moments during this pandemic was the development of a biodegradable non-medical mask from what would otherwise have been wood waste – a Canadian innovation and the first of its kind in the world. This achievement could not have happened without the support and collaboration of Natural Resources Canada and the talented scientists and researchers at FPInnovations. Turning wood residues into low-carbon, value-added products such as face masks is just another way that Canada’s forest products sector can help power green recovery, while supporting markets and government efforts to reduce single-use plastics.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, the unprecedented use of non-biodegradable protective masks has become a major environmental concern.

And so, in June 2020, Natural Resources Canada, FPInnovations, and the Canadian Forest Industry accepted the challenge to produce a biodegradable non-medical mask in Canada.

A Canadian R&D Success• Researched and developed by FPInnovations’

researchers and partners using FPInnovations’ unique pilot facilities

• Developed hand-in-hand with commercial mask producers

• Manufactured with biodegradable material made from sustainable Canadian forest fibres and biodegradable bioplastic

• Ready for hand-off to a Canadian mask producer• Eco-friendly and ready for mass production at

a competitive cost• Direct outcome of Canadian leadership in

response to COVID

Technical performance • The green PPE mask would set the standard

for non-medical masks in terms of filtration, breathability, and biodegradability

• No new equipment is needed to produce these masks

• 85% filtration performance and biodegradability = a unique combination on the market!

• Recently attained the more demanding ASTM norms of filtration efficiency and breathability that are required for procedure masks

What’s next?A fully biodegradable procedure mask. Stay tuned.

CANADA’S FOREST SECTOR: A SUSTAINABLE SOLUTION TO THE ECONOMIC RELAUNCH OF CANADA

Canada Pioneers Green PPE - FPInnovations introduces world’s first ready-to-produce biodegradable and eco-friendly non-medical maskFPInnovations, in partnership with Natural Resources Canada, is pleased to present you with the world’s first non-medical fully biodegradable mask – proudly developed in Canada.



Nova Scotia is hardly the first province that springs to mind when thinking of Canada’s forest industry. Nevertheless, in 1927 it became the site of the world’s inaugural aerial dusting operation (spraying began after the Second World War) against an insect that was wreaking havoc in “natural” woodlands. It was carried out because a number of political forces – operating at the provincial, national, and international levels – coalesced to precipitate this historic event.

By the mid-1920s, Canadian forest entomology officials were anxious to try their hand at using aircraft to bomb forest pests with poison. The problem, however, was that the country’s military officials, who were eager to demonstrate the usefulness of their fleet of aircraft for civilian purposes, refused to carry it out. They argued that the special plane that the effort required was too expensive and flying over “virgin” forest was far too dangerous.

In the meantime, a major outbreak of spruce budworm was discovered on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia. Otto Schierbeck, a Danish-born forester, was in the province at the time and working closely with prominent forest industrialist and conservationist Frank J.D. Barnjum. The latter was keen to see the province improve its forest management practices by creating the position of Chief Forester. Barnjum coincidentally sought to foist Schierbeck into the post so that Schierbeck could facilitate Barnjum’s goal of building

Map of Nova Scotia that illustrates the location of the spruce budworm infestation, 1927.Source: Nova Scotia, Report of the Department of Lands and Forests, 1927 (Halifax: King’s Printer, 1928), 30A.

By: Mark KuhlbergProfessor, History Department, Laurentian UniversityPast Chairman, Forest History Society of Ontario

Making History in Nova Scotia

The First Aerial Application of Pesticides Over a Natural Forest, 1927

Airplane dusting on Cape Breton Island.Source: Nova Scotia, Report of the Department of Lands and Forests, 1927 (Halifax: King’s Printer, 1928)

the province’s largest pulp and paper mill. In an attempt to demonstrate the desirability of realizing these plans, Schierbeck depicted the budworm infestation as having the potential to destroy virtually all of Nova Scotia’s remaining timber supplies, and that he alone had devised an ingenious plan for countering the menace.

Just as fire breaks were cut in the woods to deprive a blaze of fuel, Schierbeck argued that cutting a cordon-sanitaire around the budworm infestation would contain it. To pay for the project and for future forest protection, he proposed levying a fee on the province’s licensees based upon the size of their timber limits.

None of this sat well with two powerful American firms that had large timber holdings in Nova Scotia. The Oxford Paper Company was based in Rumford, Maine, and was a dominant player in the fine paper industry in the United States. It owned the rights to harvest and export the pulpwood from “the Big Lease” on Cape Breton Island, which represented Nova Scotia’s best and largest block of spruce and balsam. Oxford was also well connected politically in the United States. In an effort to achieve its aims, it tapped these connections to arrange for Frank Craighead Snr., the head of forest entomology in the US Bureau of Entomology, to head to Cape Breton to investigate the situation. In doing so, Craighead conferred with his long-time friend and fellow bug specialist J. Malcolm Swaine, the head of Canada’s branch of forest entomology. Both agreed that the budworm infestation was nowhere near as dire as Schierbeck had portrayed and that Schierbeck’s plan of cutting a “bug break” around the budworm infestation would not work. Moths could easily fly over it and be carried significant distances by the wind.

Politics on the national and international levels then entered the picture. Oxford’s long-time legal counsel, James L. Ralston, ran in the federal election of 1926 in his native Nova Scotia. Although he lost, Prime Minister Mackenzie King appointed him Minister of National Defence later that year; Ralston was thus at the helm of the fledgling Royal Canadian Air Force. No sooner had Oxford Paper Company’s senior management team leaned on Ralston, than Ralston found the money to purchase the plane that was specifically designed for aerial dusting work, the Keystone “Puffer,” to carry out the mission on Cape Breton. Over the course of a few days in late June 1927, the plane dropped nearly three tons of poison (mostly calcium arsenate but also a bit of lead arsenate) over small sections of Crown and freehold land near Whycocomagh, which served as the operation’s base.

Careful records of that operation were kept, but there is no official record for the one that followed on its heels. The West Virginia Pulp and Paper Company (Westvaco) had been exporting pulpwood from Nova Scotia since the early 1920s. Its operations were based in

Guysborough County, just across the Strait of Canso from Cape Breton Island, in which the spruce budworm was also active. Not only was the firm closely associated with Oxford in its operations in the United States, but it had wisely chosen one of the Maritimes’ most prestigious law firms to handle its affairs in the province. Although exactly how Westvaco convinced Canadian officials to do its bidding is unclear, in short order the firm was relieved to hear that the perimeter of the budworm infestation on its timber limits was bombed with roughly twelve tons of poison in July 1927.

The flights were perilous, but the details of that aspect of the operation await another day and the publication of my forthcoming book on this subject, Killing Bugs for Business and Beauty: Canada’s Aerial War Against Forest Insects, 1913-1930 (forthcoming in 2021 with the University of Toronto Press). Regardless, a handful of Canadian foresters, entomologists, and pilots had made history in Nova Scotia over the course of mid-1927. It would be the first in what would turn out to be a truly extraordinary series of projects that employed the latest technology to battle insects that were besieging various stands of trees in Canada’s forests.

Cartoon depicting spruce budworm menace in Nova Scotia.Source: Halifax Herald, 20 April 1926




Forests without Borders

CNC: supporting a healthy northern BC resource sectorCNC’s Natural Resources and Forest Technology program produces top-quality graduates to meet the diverse needs of this vital sector, supported by expert faculty and hands-on opportunities through CNC’s research forest.

Learn how your staff can benefit from NRFT skills and experience. Visit cnc.bc.ca/nrft for more.

Arboretum at a new university in Pokhora Forests without Borders is in the process of developing a new project to help the natural resources department of a new university in Pokhara develop an arboretum. Forests without Borders is looking for help to raise the funds needed. As you may be aware donations to all charities is way down due to the public’s preoccupation with COVID-19. If you have ideas that may help with increasing donations and are willing to help please send an email to: [email protected]

Western Forestry Contractors' Association purchases FwB face masks FwB worked with Western Forestry Contractors' Association in British Columbia to supply 3 ply cloth face masks with both the Western Forestry Contractors' Association and FwB logos. The Western Forestry Contractors' Association has distributed the stylish masks to their members and clients. If your organization would like to do the same please send FwB an email: [email protected]

CIF Vancouver Section uses webinars to drive up donations and face mask purchasesWith social events now held via video conference CIF’s Vancouver Section invited webinar participants to consider purchasing a face mask or making a donation to FwB.

Children, education and the environmentForests without Borders is working with another Canadian charity, Charitree Foundation to help a primary school in Kalika, Kaski district about a one and half hour drive from the city of Pokhara, Nepal to plant trees and integrate environmental education into their curriculum. The school, Chandika Primary School was built in 1986.

Trees will be planted on school property and some on the land owned or worked by the school children’s family. School children will be responsible for caring for the tree seedling that they will plant at home. Teachers will visit the homes of the school children and the state of the tree at the student’s home will be evaluated by the teacher.

The deforested area around the school has been fenced off in March 2021 to ensure planted trees are not destroyed by animals and people using the area.

CIF Annual Conference Silent Auction for FwBPlan to bid on some excellent items for the home or your loved ones that will also contribute to helping people restore forests. A well-known artist of nature, Barry Kent McKay has donated an original painting of timber wolves valued at $1,500 for the auction.

Barry writes: “Personally, I’m no fonder of romanticizing wolves than I am demonizing them, but I am a huge fan of nature, of which wolves are an integral part in true wilderness, and they are endlessly fascinating in so many ways. That includes their howling, a strange, mournful sound that, like the call of a loon or the bugling of an elk says to me, here be wildness and nature unmarred by human hubris, greed and ignorance, vulnerable to our deadly administrations, but still intact, still the domain of the wolf, resulting from the three billion year history of the evolution of life on our planet.”

The painting is in oils on compressed acid-free masonite and is 24 by 30 inches.

In Memoriam: On behalf of the Canadian Institute of Forestry / Institut forestier du Canada (CIF-IFC), we would like to express our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the following CIF-IFC members who have recently passed.

As the national voice of forest practitioners, we would like to sincerely thank all our Sustaining Corporate Members who support our many programs and initiatives! For sponsorship information and opportunities, please contact us at: [email protected]

Gordon Stone Feb. 27, 1936 – Mar. 2, 2021

CENTRAL ONTARIO SECTION• CIF-IFC Past President, 2000-2001• CIF-IFC Tree of Life Award, 1994

Richard (Dick) Fry Nov. 16, 1941 – Mar. 7, 2021

NORTHWESTERN ONTARIO SECTION• CIF-IFC Tree of Life Award, 2000

Jack Wright 1931 – 2021

ROCKY MOUNTAIN SECTION• CIF-IFC Tree of Life Award, 1990

CYPRESS MEMBER

MAPLE MEMBERS

DOUGLAS FIR MEMBER




The Forest onYour Desktop

CIF-IFC National Electronic LecturesJoin us for a range of forestry and environmental topics to

support your continuing education and professional development needs!

On weekdays from: 1:30pm - 2:30pm (EDT)10:30am - 11:30am (PDT)

Registration is FREE!For more info:

www.cif-ifc.org/e-lecturesAll E-lectures arerecorded and stored inthe CIF-IFC archives

Our Forests — Continually Giving National Forest Week 2021 highlights how Canada’s diverse forests are connected to our everyday lives.

Forests are more important now than ever, a beacon of renewal, resilience and hope for the future. They off er a variety of products, social, cultural and health benefi ts and provide critical ecological functions. The forest sector is considered an essential service. Through sustainable forest management, we give back to our forests by ensuring they are renewed and remain resilient for a hopeful future.

SEPTEMBER19–25, 2021

What does the forest give to you? Let us know by using #NationalForestWeek!cif-ifc.org/national-forest-week

20210108-CIF-National-Forest-Week-Poster-8.5x11.indd 120210108-CIF-National-Forest-Week-Poster-8.5x11.indd 1 2021-06-04 2:05 PM2021-06-04 2:05 PM

Test your knowledge on multi-day field trips, collaborate in shared workspaces, and start your natural resource career through a cooperative work placement in our Forestry Technician - Conservation program. Degree pathway options are available through local partnering universities.Visit saultcollege.ca/forestry

EXPERIENCE OURHANDS-ON, FIELD-ORIENTATED APPROACH

Management Forester

An exciting employment opportunity awaits you with the Department of Environment, Energy & Climate Action. The province is seeking a forest professional with critical thinking and long term planning skills to work with a team of forestry and wildlife professionals to develop, test and monitor forest management treatments, with attention to climate change and wildlife implications on Prince Edward Island. Benefits include; vacation, sick leave, group benefits 50/50 cost share and pension. Make application to https://www.gov.pe.ca/jobspei/posting/government/external Salary Range: $32.57 - $40.70 per hour (Level 18) Bi-Weekly Hours: 75.0 hours bi-weekly PostingID: 145219

Management Forester An exciting employment opportunity awaits you with the Department of Environment, Energy & Climate Action. The province is seeking a forest professional with critical thinking and long term planning skills to work with a team of forestry and wildlife professionals to develop, test and monitor forest management treatments, with attention to climate change and wildlife implications on Prince Edward Island. Benefits include; vacation, sick leave, group benefits 50/50 cost share and pension. Make application to: www.gov.pe.ca/jobspei/posting/government/external Salary Range: $32.57 - $40.70 per hour (Level 18) Bi-Weekly Hours: 75.0 hours bi-weekly Posting ID: 145219


http://www.gov.pe.ca/jobspei/posting/government/external

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Documents

Membership Magazine | 2021 ISSUE 01