Forest Practices Board gets three new members

VICTORIA – Bruce Fraser, chair of the Forest Practices Board, issued the following statement upon the cabinet appointment of three new board members announced by Forests and Range Minister Pat Bell today:

“On behalf of board members and staff at the Forest Practices Board, we are pleased to welcome Andrea Lyall, Michael Nash and David Patterson to our organization. This trio brings an extensive knowledge of forestry-related issues to the table, and will make a significant contribution to our work.

“Ms. Lyall has had coastal forestry experience and brings a First Nations perspective to the board, Mr. Nash has community interests including wildland conservation and recreation in northern B.C. and Mr. Patterson has experience in B.C.’s interior working with certification and the transition from the Forest Practices Code to the Forest and Range Practices Act.

“It is with gratitude and good wishes that we bid goodbye to our outgoing board members. Their contributions to the board have been outstanding, and cumulatively they have provided a wealth of knowledge and insight during their terms.

“Geoff Battersby has been my vice-chair for the past four years, and has capably handled the responsibility. He has been an excellent advisor on community matters, especially as they relate to the growing interest in community forests in the interior of the province. His kindness and good humour made him an excellent part of our team, and we wish him the best in his future pursuits.

“Dave Mannix has brought practicality and humour to our meetings, providing insight into First Nations issues, and the knowledge of a man who has worked hands-on in forestry for the better part of his career. His no-nonsense approach to board meetings has kept us on topic and on task, and he will be missed.

“Mark Haddock has always brought thoughtful discussion and a legal perspective to board work. His knowledge of environmental law and his dedication to complex environmental issues have been of great value to clarifying board positions and responsibilities in our role as watchdog for forest and range practices in the province.”

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; and
• makes recommendations for improvement to practices and legislation.

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