Dorian Uzzell

The 81st Annual Truck Loggers Association Convention opened in Vancouver Wednesday, with a clear message about both the challenges facing the sector and the purpose of the gathering. TLA President Dorian Uzzell welcomed delegates by reaffirming the association’s belief “that a strong and sustainable working forest will generate long-term prosperity for the people of British Columbia,” and that those who work in the forests “must share in that prosperity.” He said the convention’s theme, Fostering Collaboration and Partnerships, reflects the TLA’s view that “the power of working together is the key to building a stronger and more sustainable forestry sector.”

Dorian Uzzell

While acknowledging strong attendance and thanking sponsors, Uzzell did not soften his assessment of current conditions, noting that while mill closures draw attention, “there is little said about the small independent operators” who are “the backbone of a healthy forest economy and the small rural communities of BC.” He warned that current policies are “creating inefficiency leading to the creation of uneconomical forests to operate in,” and stressed that the sector must be viewed as “having a symbiotic relationship” across the supply chain.

The convention formally began with a welcome and blessing from Squamish Nation Elder Calvin Charlie Dawson, who acknowledged the gathering on traditional territory and welcomed participants on behalf of the Squamish Nation and neighbouring Nations. Moderator Vaughn Palmer then opened the three-day program, expressing his admiration for the organization’s persistence in a difficult period for the industry before moving the conference into its first session.

Vaughn Palmer

Calvin Charlie Dawson