Erin Neave and Leanne Elliott made a joint presentation on CMFN's National Initiative on Bioenergy at the Woody Biomass Energy Research Symposium for the Northern Forest held at the University of Vermont in April. Their slideshow informed the audience on the status, opportunities and challenges of bioenergy in Canada, while highlighting the CMFN's and its members' role in this sector. The CMFN is developing tools for communities looking to build a bioenergy facility in their region. It is a three-part project, with a primer and website containing background, policy and program information, case studies, and resources, both which will be available soon. The third component is an online pre-feasibility tool that will be developed in the upcoming fiscal year. As a result of this conference, strong connections were made that will benefit the CMFN and its initiative as it moves forward.

Over 20 CMFN delegates traveled to Burgos, Spain in March, to attend the 2011 International Model Forest Network Global Forum, and the preceding Symposium on Ecosystem and Landscape-Level Approaches to Sustainability. With over 300 representatives from around the world in attendance, this meeting provided ample opportunity to meet and network with a broad range of Model Forests, regional Model Forest representatives, and partners. Everyone who participated was open to new ideas and developing partnerships, which further enforced the fundamental goals and objectives of the network. 

There were many similarities in themes and activities taking place between Model Forests, as well as a strong sense of support, with the network behind the activities of Model Forests and regional networks worldwide. Many opportunities were explored, such as understanding how other countries use forestry and non-timber forest products to produce an economy for their communities, and taking steps forward on the circumboreal initiative. As a result of the meeting, the CMFN better understands how its activities fit into the global framework, an important focus as it moves forward.

Every three years the International Model Forest Network (IMFN) Secretariat brings together members of Model Forests (and their respective regional secretariats) from around the world in one location. The IMFN Global Forum, as this gathering is called, is primarily a business meeting in which Model Forests share knowledge, review their accomplishments, problem solve and create strategic plans for the years ahead.

The Canadian contingent at this year’s gathering in Burgos, Spain will include Leanne Elliott and Brian Barkley from the CMFN, several member model forest representatives, as well as individuals from the Canadian Forest Service, the International Model Forest Network, and other influential organizations.   Several Canadian model forest’s were invited to showcase their unique projects during the much anticipated poster session. The Canadian contingent will also have several tables to display our uniquely Canadian content and contributions!

The Global Forum is open to Model Forest members only as it is primarily a business meeting of the IMFN. However, most Model Forest members attending the Global Forum will also participate in the International Symposium offering an excellent opportunity for Symposium participants to network with people directly involved in Model Forests around the world.  For details visit: IMFN Global Forum 2011

The Canadian Model Forest Network (CMFN) is pleased to welcome Brian Barkley back into our model forest family!  Brian has assumed the role as President of the CMFN and will be working alongside Leanne Elliott in her expanded role as National Coordinator.  Brian is a registered professional forester, and best known in model forest circles as the influential founding General Manager of the Eastern Ontario Model Forest (EOMF) - which he helped to establish in 1992 and then lead until 2009 when he ‘retired’.  This position followed his role as the Regional Forester for the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources operating out of Kemptville.