The New Zealand Institute of Forestry
The New Zealand Institute of Forestry is a national organisation of people involved in all aspects of the discipline of forestry. Incorporated in 1927, the Institute now has about 800 members from government, industry, research, teaching and consulting fields; it provides a professional umbrella for those involved in forest management, whether it be management of natural forests or plantations, for forest products, recreation, wildlife or natural habitat, or soil and water protection. The Institute's philosophy and forest policy is that forestry is conservation; in the words of the New Zealand Conservation Strategy, "Conservation is the management of human use of the biosphere to yield the greatest sustainable benefits to present generations while maintaining potential to meet the needs and aspirations of future generations." Conservation management of forests thus include preservation, maintenance, sustainable utilisation, restoration and enhancement of the forests and forest environment.
The objectives of the Institute are to serve members by:
- affording them opportunities to express and exchange views
- overseeing members ethics
- encouraging fraternity and "Esprit de corps"
- providing recognition of professional standards
- the publication of the Journal of New Zealand Forestry
The Institute is structured into local sections that hold meetings and field days. FORSOC is affiliated to the Institute and is invited to participate in the Canterbury local section activities. Those who would like to join the Institute as student members can do so by contacting Bruce Manley.