Board welcomes new member

VICTORIA – Al Gorley, chair of the Forest Practices Board, issued the following statement upon the cabinet appointment of a new board member announced by Forests, Lands and Mines Minister Pat Bell today:

“On behalf of board members and staff at the Forest Practices Board, we are pleased to welcome Bill Dumont to our organization. Bill brings a wealth of forest industry experience and in-depth knowledge of coastal forestry issues to the table, and will make a significant contribution to our work. His many years of experience with Western Forest Products, coupled with his international and First Nations work, will be a welcome addition to the diversity of experience and knowledge around the board table.”

Presently a consultant, previous positions held by Dumont include chief executive officer, Sarawak Forestry Corporation (Malaysia) and chief forester, Western Forest Products (BC). Dumont has been awarded the Distinguished Forester award from Association of BC Forest Professionals and a B.C. Environment Minister’s Award.

The Forest Practices Board is B.C.’s independent watchdog for sound forest and range practices, reporting its findings and recommendations directly to the public and government. The board:

• Audits forest and range practices on public lands.
• Audits appropriateness of government enforcement.
• Investigates public complaints.
• Undertakes special investigations of current forestry issues.
• Participates in administrative appeals.
• Makes recommendations for improvement to practices and legislation.

For further information:

Helen Davies
Communications
Forest Practices Board
Phone: 250 213-4708 / 1 800 994-5899