Woodlot licensee Mark Churchill is the Northern Interior's award winner of this year's Award of Excellence for Woodlot Management, Nechako Lakes MLA John Rustad announced today, on behalf of Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Steve Thomson.

Mark Churchill has managed a woodlot in Vanderhoof since 1998. He is known for his focus on reforestation and dedication to ensure wood waste is utilized by stock-piling fibre to supply new bio-energy operations. He also contributes to the success of other woodlots by working with licensees throughout the province and providing direction on forest stewardship activities.

Licensees that show exemplary leadership and contribution to woodlot management are recognized annually through the Minister's Award of Excellence for Woodlot Management.

Three regional awards are given: one for the Northern Interior, one for the Southern Interior and one for the Coast. Each award is for $2,500. Finalists are evaluated by a team with representation from the Federation of BC Woodlot Associations and the ministry.

Nominations for the 2012 awards are due by Dec. 31, 2012.

Quotes:

Steve Thomson, Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations -

"Mark Churchill's perseverance and leadership in woodlot management goes beyond the regular call of duty. His high level of expertise sets a great example for other woodlot licensees to strive to achieve."

John Rustad, MLA for Nechako Lakes -

"Mr. Churchill's openness to educate and share his knowledge with others is greatly appreciated. I congratulate him for his dedication and success."

Mark Clark, president, Federation of BC Woodlot Associations -

"Mark is recognized for his exemplary efforts in woodlot management. His focus on long-term sustainability and reforestation are two major components of achieving a successful, viable woodlot operation. This award is well deserved!"

Quick Facts:

• Woodlot licences are small, area-based tenures that combine private land with up to 800 hectares of Crown land on the Coast and 1,200 hectares in the Interior, and are managed by individuals, groups or First Nations.

• Woodlots are replaceable tenures, usually awarded for an initial term of 20 years.

• British Columbia has 866 active woodlots. Each woodlot generates jobs in planning, harvesting, road construction and maintenance, reforestation, silviculture and small-scale timber processing.

Learn More:

About the Federation of BC Woodlot Associations: http://www.woodlot.bc.ca/

About woodlot licences:

http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/hth/timber-tenures/woodlots/index.htm

Contact:

Media Relations
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261