How will being an R.P.F. differ under licensing from what it is to-day?
Membership in the OPFA is voluntary at present. Under the new Act it is mandatory in order to practice forestry as described by the legislation. There will be a legal underpinning to the practice of forestry and inappropriate or illegal practice will be subject to legal action and fines. All foresters will be bound by the same professional standards of practice and Code of Ethics. Further, members could be subject to peer review and to public audit, as will the OPFA itself. This may sound a bit daunting, but these matters are part and parcel of an effective and active profession, and are common to other more high-profile professions. They enable it to fulfill its regulatory role in the public interest and help to bring respect to the profession and its members. As the profession of forestry becomes more active and effective in fulfilling its role, there will be a significant difference in how members are perceived and in their ability to have a positive influence on how forestry is pra
