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18 May 2008

Dr Morgan Williams elected NZIF Honorary Member

The New Zealand Institute of Forestry Inc (NZIF) elected former Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment Dr Morgan Williams an Honorary Member at its AGM in Palmerston North this week.

In moving the nomination at the Institutes annual general meeting, NZIF incoming President Dr Andrew McEwen noted that being elected an Honorary Member recognised service to the Institute and contribution to the practice of forestry in New Zealand.

Both prior to and in his role as Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment, Dr Williams has been a long standing advocate of the importance of land use in the maintenance of water quality and soil stability. He has consistently recognised the importance of forest and other woody vegetation, and his promotion of these views at the very highest levels of government has contributed to the recognition of the importance of the wider values of forests to the economy of New Zealand.

Dr Williams has also supported NZIF activities, particularly at recent conferences addressing issues of sustainable land use. This is a role he also undertook at this year’s conference, summarising proceedings and chairing the final panel session.

“We are delighted that Dr Williams was elected an Honorary Member of the Institute in recognition of his contribution to forestry and sustainable land use in New Zealand”, said Dr McEwen, “and this is of particular relevance given the focus of this year’s conference and its location in the Manawatu.”

ENDS

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