The Forest Enhancement Society of BC (FESBC) has been honoured with the prestigious 2024 Canadian Forest Management Group Achievement Award by the Canadian Institute of Forestry/Institut Forestier du Canada (CIF-IFC). The award acknowledges groups or teams that have made noteworthy and exceptional contributions to forest management in Canada. It recognizes the multidisciplinary nature of forest ecosystem management by honouring the various groups that must collaborate. The award promotes excellence and leadership in group contributions to Canadian forest management.
“Our organization was very pleased when we received notification that we were the fortunate recipients of the award for 2024,” remarked Dave Peterson, chair of the FESBC Board of Directors. “FESBC continues to play a key role in the forests of B.C., working with our partners to create healthier, more productive forests for the future. We are so proud to receive this award from a prestigious organization such as the Canadian Institute of Forestry/Institut Forestier du Canada that acknowledges the achievement of this collaborative group of people throughout our province.”
CIF-IFC recognized FESBC’s significant contributions to Canada’s economic and social well-being. Loni Pierce, president of CIF-IFC and Margaret Symon, vice-president of CIF-IFC, shared in a letter that, “The organization has funded and supported numerous forest enhancement projects, investing millions of dollars across British Columbia and creating over 2,100 full-time equivalent jobs in the B.C. Forest sector.”
Steve Kozuki, executive director of FESBC, highlighted the organization’s unique role as a catalyst, effectively bridging the gap between landowners, the province of British Columbia, and the private sector.
“By leveraging the strengths of these entities, FESBC has been able to consistently deliver excellent environmental outcomes, social benefits, and economic gains for all involved,” remarked Kozuki. “I would also like to acknowledge our Board and FESBC staff who have all contributed their expertise and wealth of experience to the organization.”
CIF-IFC also acknowledged FESBC’s dedication to collaborating with Indigenous partners by funding numerous projects led by or involving First Nations. FESBC’s collaborative approach, which brings together the provincial government, local governments, Indigenous peoples, citizens, forest workers, large companies, small companies, forestry associations, and many others, is helping to tackle the complex issues and challenges British Columbia’s forests face.
Kozuki shared, “Our model is to tap into expertise at the grassroots level in First Nations and local communities. People who know their local forests and their priorities come forward and propose projects that work for their circumstances, so it is a real honour to accept this award on behalf of all those who have worked so hard. Thank you again for this recognition. It will inspire us to continue doing more work like this in the future.