Lessons from the last 40 years - A view from a New Zealand Forester

Authors: Andrew McEwen
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 2010, Issue N.Z.J.For. 55(4) 2011, pp 3-5, Jan 2011
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

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Abstract: Almost 40 years ago I presented a paper titled “Proposals to improve the image of forestry as a career”1 to a New Zealand Institute of Forestry conference. At that time the forestry profession was largely or totally unaware of such present day technologies and issues as: • Personal computers, the internet and Power Point • Mobile phones, twittering, tweeting and facebooks • Genetic modification • Forest certification • Climate change and emissions trading schemes • Payment for the provision of environmental services • Management of whole forests primarily for recreational purposes. Totally unforeseen in 1971 was the 1987 disestablishment of the New Zealand Forest Service. This was a government department formed in 1919 and responsible for plantation and natural forests, forestry training, research, policy advice to government and many other functions. It was responsible for the management of over 50% of the plantation forest area in New Zealand. Many employees, including me, had joined it with the intention of remaining with it for our entire career.

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