Green light for forestry researcher

AWARD WINNER: Scion Forest Systems research leader John Moore won an award at the Forest Growing Research conference. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

A Rotorua-based researcher has received a top award at the Forest Growing Research conference.

Scion Forest Systems research leader John Moore snapped up the Communication and Sector Engagement award for his work in identifying opportunities to improve productivity and the value of forests and engaging with large and small forest owners to communicate the key findings of his research.

It was presented at the conference in Nelson this week.

Mr Moore started at Scion in 1994 before heading to Oregon State University for three years to do a PhD.

"I was back here for four years before I headed off again to Scotland, where I looked at wood quality in British grown tree species and how to get more wood used in construction. While I was there I also did a short course on science communication, which included engaging with the public and schools. In 2011 I came back to New Zealand and to Scion and since then I have been working in the area of forest management and wood quality."

The awards were introduced in 2011 by the Forest Owners Association to recognise research efforts in five key areas that underpin the success of forestry in New Zealand.

Mr Moore said he was thrilled with his achievement.

"It was really humbling to win the award, but also really nice to be acknowledged by my peers in the industry. The research that I do is quite applied and being able to communicate the findings to end users is important.

"As a scientist it is really satisfying to get published, but it is probably more satisfying to see people take the results of your research and implement them in practice," he said.

"Our vision at Scion is to create prosperity from trees. For this to happen, we need to be able to effectively communicate the results of the research that we do. While I was the fortunate recipient of the award, at the recent Forest Growing Research conference in Nelson there was recognition across the board for the way scientists were able to engage and communicate with their colleagues in the industry. This is great for both Scion and the wider forest sector."

Forest Owners Association research and development manager Russell Dale said the association brought together industry funding for research and provided a channel for obtaining matching public funding.