The New Zealand Institute of Forestry (NZIF) has announced the winners of its prestigious 2021 awards.
In what has been an exceptionally volatile year for many, the forestry sector remains a significant contributor to the New Zealand economy. NZIF President James Treadwell says the industry is working hard to benefit Aotearoa / New Zealand and New Zealanders, not only with significant returns to GDP but also to offer social benefits including carbon capture, recreation opportunities, clean water, biodiversity and general wellbeing.
“We’re fortunate with our high-calibre industry professionals who set the standards for others to aspire to. The NZIF relishes the opportunity to celebrate with ‘the best of the best’ and to proudly champion the recipients of NZIF’s awards,” says James.
This year’s recipient was acknowledged for their diverse skills and experience. These skills range from hard graft and commitment at grass roots level to high level policy planning, execution, and academic leadership.
The NZ Forester of the Year award went to Paul Millen and was presented to him by the Minister of Forestry Stuart Nash at the awards dinner. The awards were held at the Carterton Events Center in the Wairarapa on Monday 16th August following on from the conference which was held at Solway in Masterton.
The NZIF Forester of the Year is a highly coveted prize which rewards a person for their outstanding contribution to the forestry sector throughout the year. Paul is described as a visionary with the ability to bridge both academic and industry groups.
He is someone who understands the science and can communicate this to people at all levels from professional foresters to tree enthusiasts. His drive, energy, and capacity for work has made, and will no doubt continue to make, an outstanding contribution to the NZ forest industry.
The NZIF has also appointed a new Fellow, Murray Dudfield, particularly for his tireless work on rural fires over three decades.