FORESTRY PROFESSIONS ACT RECEIVES SECOND READING

Legislation governing the competency, conduct and accountability of forestry professionals in Saskatchewan received second reading in the Legislature today.

The Forestry Professions Act establishes the Association of Saskatchewan Forestry Professionals, an organization independent of government and industry, responsible for ensuring that its members maintain required standards for competency and conduct. Under the legislation, association members will have the exclusive right to use the titles Professional Forester, Professional Forest Technologist, Forester-in-Training and Forest Technologist-in-Training.

"This legislation protects the interests of the people of Saskatchewan by ensuring that registered forestry professionals making decisions affecting our forest's long-term health are competent, ethical and accountable," Environment Minister David Forbes said. "It also demonstrates our commitment to shared responsibility and accountability for sustainable forest management in Saskatchewan."

The Forestry Professions Act was developed in consultation with a wide variety of groups, including the Saskatchewan Section of the Canadian Institute of Forestry. The legislation is consistent with other Acts that currently govern professionals from various other disciplines, including agrologists, engineers and geoscientists. It provides an opportunity for voluntary professional registration and does not exclude individuals from the practice of forestry.

"This Act does not constitute a right to practice, but those retaining the services of a forester or forest technologist in Saskatchewan will now have the option of hiring a registered professional," Forbes said. "By offering a nationally-recognized registration program, Saskatchewan demonstrates that it is a desirable place to practice forestry and that the profession enjoys the same level of respect here as in other provinces."

British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland and Labrador all have legislation governing forestry professionals.

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

Earl Boulon Environment Prince Albert Phone: (306) 953-2439