Despite dire predictions around climate change, there are also new opportunities, including a strengthening bio-economy, increased support for green infrastructure, and the monetization of environmental attributes such as carbon offsets. A changing climate and the associated impacts are new realities affecting society, the environment, and the economy through a “ripple effect.” Forest owners will soon face a range of risks and opportunities, both new and familiar.
So now what? One answer, already known by forest managers and strongly endorsed by the United Nations, is that forests will play a key role in addressing climate change.
Nobody has all of the answers but it’s essential we all contribute to the question “So now what?” Bring your ideas and experience and join Forests Ontario on February 9 for the group’s annual conference, where expert speakers will share their knowledge on “Our Forests in a Changing Climate.”
Speakers and sessions include:
- Mark Robinson, Storm Hunters, keynote speaker
- Jackie Richard and Leanne Echum, Ontario Centre for Climate Impacts and Adaptation Resources – Climate Change and Adaptation in First Nation Communities
- Jeff Bowman, Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry – Hybridization of Flying Squirrels
- Jenny Gleeson, Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry – Managing your forests for climate change
- Malcolm Cecil-Cockwell, Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve Ltd. – Sustainably managing forests for carbon
- Alex Bilyk, Lakehead University – Drones: Seeing is believing
- Joseph Pallant, Brinkman Climate – Navigating Carbon Markets
- David Fisman, University of Toronto – Climate Change, Ecosystems and Infectious Diseases: The Road Ahead
- Lauren Cooper, Michigan State University – Adding value to forests
The Forests Ontario Annual General Meeting will take place on February 9 at 7:45 a.m., prior to the opening of conference. The conference will be held at the Nottawasaga Inn, located in Alliston, one hour north of Toronto. To register or learn more click here.