Christine Gelowitz

It stings a little every time I read an article or comment online that mischaracterizes forest management in BC or the role of forest professionals. I imagine many forest professionals likely feel a similar way, because a career in forest management is not just a job; what we feel for the forest is both personal and professional. …years spent working in forestry only deepens our connection on both a personal and professional level. No wonder most forest professionals feel a deep sense of responsibility to defend and speak out about forests.

As a result of this passion, the hundreds of comments submitted in the recent registrant survey came as no surprise to me… Many expressed a desire to see FPBC combat misinformation and provide unbiased information on areas of public concern. Registrants also suggested public education campaigns about the state of the forest, forest management practices, and the role of forest professionals; and they suggested looking for ways for forest professionals to be engaged in respectful, informed debate about forest management policies and practices.

I couldn’t agree more. FPBC is working on these things, just not at the scale I believe many desire. There are clear limitations about how and what FPBC can advocate for, and there are practical limitations based on our staff size and budget; however, we will continue to have a voice in forests and there are ways we can work together to amplify it. …Code Standard 8, Professionalism, encourages forest professionals to promote public knowledge with truthful, accurate information on forestry matters. I urge all practising forest professionals to use their expertise and voice to help combat misinformation about forests and forest professionals today.