NZIF “Forester of the Year”

17 November 2005

NZIF “Forester of the Year” gains Royal Society Recognition

The New Zealand Institute of Forestry Inc (“NZIF”) 2005 Forester of the Year, Dr Andrew McEwen, had his award recognised at the Royal Society 2005 Science Honours Dinner in Wellington last night.

Dr McEwen, who is also Vice President of NZIF, received the award for to his commitment and contribution to the profession of forestry over the last 43 years. He played a significant role in the privatisation of the State-owned plantations in the late 1980s and early 90’s, and has also been involved in Treaty of Waitangi settlements involving forestry land.

In announcing the award, NZIF President Jaquetta (Ket) Bradshaw congratulated Andrew and thanked him for his contribution to forestry in New Zealand over a long and distinguished career. Ms Bradshaw also highlighted his contribution to the NZIF.

“His voluntary effort in producing a comprehensive weekly electronic newsletter benefits both the forestry sector and the professional standing of foresters and the Institute. In addition, he has been highly effective in creating opportunities for networking and in giving a sense of community for the forestry profession.”

On receiving his award, Dr McEwen thanked the Royal Society, observing:

“This award recognises professionalism within the forestry sector and acknowledges that our forests, both indigenous and exotic, are vitally important to the economic and environmental well-being of New Zealand”.

NZIF, with a membership of 780, is the organisation for the professionals in New Zealand forestry. Its main objective is to be an independent advocate for forestry, and to provide services and support to members, the profession, and the general public. Its members are concerned with the professional management of all forests, plantation and indigenous, protection and commercial.

The members can be found in forestry companies, consulting businesses, research institutes, educational facilities, government departments and providers of specialist services. The NZIF also operates a scheme that controls the registration and conduct of forestry consultants who provide forestry advice to the public. There are around 90 registered NZIF members.

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