Last week, Peter was able to attend the ISAO Conference (International Society of Arborists in Ontario) in Ottawa on behalf of P & A Urban Forestry Consulting. It was a wonderful learning opportunity. It was a positive experience and great to realize how fortunate we are in our industry to have so many young people engaged, eager to learn and helping to improve our industry.
Diana Beresford-Kroeger, as the keynote speaker with a medical background, presented thought provoking considerations on the many medicines and health-improving features of trees and forests for human kind.
With respect to the issues ahead, the Ministry of Labour representative presented information about how they enforce the provision of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and the responsibilities of the employers and employees, now that there is a Chief Prevention Officer at the Ministry of Labour.
Another theme that was presented was some of the pests that are and will be affecting our trees and some possible solutions. These include improving the soils for trees that are planted in the hopes of improving tree vigour and increasing their resistance to pests and environmental factors.
It was wonderful to meet so many other industry professionals and discuss some different ideas over the few days. There were many familiar faces that were great to catch up with, as well as many new faces that it was wonderful to meet. One face it was great to see was Michael Rosen, President of Tree Canada. It was fantastic to talk with such a prominent figure in the arboriculture industry.
At the 67th ISAO Annual Awards banquet, several industry members were recognized for their dedication related to Arboriculture. It was a wonderful surprise that Peter Wynnyczuk was one of the recipients! He was presented with a Special Achievement Award for his outstanding contribution to the Arboriculture Industry in 2015.
Thanks to the ISAO for another informative conference and for providing excellent speakers and a great networking environment. We look forward to next year!