In this issue, we write about the still unfolding scandal in the Oregon State University College of Forestry. It is meticulously researched and, we hope a thoughtfully written assessment of the so-called “Donato controversy”—a lamentable if not inexcusable act orchestrated from the shadows by at least two OSU professors and one Forest Service scientist. Read more
I have always had trouble with arithmetic. In public school, unable to memorize my addition tables, I completed my sums by pencilling peck marks in the margins and then counting them. This marginalia my teachers took as symptoms of idleness and dismissed me as an aimless kid who couldn’t add. Read more
Wildfire suppression costs may be reduced using new model. Recent research shows that using the right mix of agency and contract crews is the most cost effective way to fight fires rather than using contract or agency crews exclusively, according to Geoffrey Donovan, a research forester at the Forest Service’s Pacific Northwest Research Station. Read more
The WSCA is proposing Western Canada’s tree planting and forestry contractors meet this summer to draw up a collective strategy to address the sector’s labour capacity problems. Silviculture Sector Capacity Summit Tuesday 8 August 2006 9:00 am to 4:30 pm South Thompson Inn & Conference Centre 3438 Shuswap Road, Kamloops, B.C. V2H 1T2 Phone: 250-573-3777 Read more
Vancouver, B.C. – (March 16, 2006) – Roger Harris, former Skeena MLA and Minister of State for Forestry Operations, has been appointed Forest Safety Ombudsman by the BC Forest Safety Council. The position will enhance safety in B.C.’s forest industry as an impartial, confidential agent for change. Read more
The Employment Standards Branch will dedicate a full time officer this spring to inspecting silviculture operations and investigating complaints, continuing its special program from last year. At the same time BC Timber Sales has agreed to monitor Employment Standards Act Silviculture Regulation compliance on its forestry projects in 2006. BCTS contractors will be required to … Read more
The ministry of health has announced amendments to the Drinking Water Act Regulations for small water systems including silviculture camps. The new rules allow non-potable water for washing purposes and a more discretionary approach for previously mandatory construction permits and small water system certification requirements. This more flexible application of the regs will be guided … Read more