THE significant development work taking place in the local forest sector and the individuals guiding it were celebrated by the Forestry Department on December 9, 2022 as they celebrated forest heroes at the third annual Forest Heroes Awards Banquet at the Terra Nova All-Suit Hotel.

Senator Matthew Samuda, state minister without portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, lauded “the great and inspiring work and contributions through time, efforts, and accomplishments of community leaders, business enterprises, corporate entities, tree planters, and youth for their achievements” at the banquet.

Noting that the banquet was the final event of the inaugural two-day National Forestry Conference hosted by the department in association with the European Union, the minister said “these awards not only acknowledge that good work is being done, but that it is appreciated”.

CEO and Conservator of Forest Ainsley Henry concurred, noting that, “The theme of the conference ‘Forestry as a Business’, as articulated and demonstrated by presenters, participants, and exhibitors, prove that critical growth is taking place in the sector and the Forestry Department is proud to be both facilitator and actor.”

Among the recipients of the Lifetime Achievement Forest Hero awards at the banquet were:

• Lorrel Smith, OD – chairman of Dallas Castle local forest management committee

• Sharon McLean – chair of the Northern Rio Minho local forest management committee

• Phillip Thompson – project manager for the Buff Bay local forest management committee

• Herbert Foster – chairman of South East Cockpit Country local forest management committee

• Marilyn Headley, OD – former CEO and conservator of forests.

The forest champion award was won by Dr Satyanarayanna Parvataneni, while Lacey-Ann Bartley, managing director of Bartley’s All In Wood proudly accepted the forestry business leader award.

Several non-governmental organisations were also honoured, including the Trees that Feed Foundation; the South East Cockpit Country Local Forest Management Committee; and for private forestry, Ricky Jackson.

The Jamaica Public Service Company received an award in the corporate category; Petre Williams-Raynor in the media and public education category, and Jamila Falak James received the youth in forestry award.

Certificates of recognition were awarded to Food For the Poor Jamaica and Robert Morgan, Member of Parliament for “outstanding contributions to the forest sector”.