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COFI 2020 to look for ‘a path forward’ for BC’s forestry sector

From April 1-3, 2020, hundreds of forest industry stakeholders will descend upon Prince George, B.C., for the annual BC Council of Forest Industries (COFI) Convention at the Prince George Civic Centre.

“Every year, the COFI Convention brings together industry, business, government, and First Nations leaders to discuss current issues and future opportunities for B.C.’s forestry industry. It’s the largest gathering of the forestry sector in Western Canada, so it is a great opportunity to network and share ideas,” Susan Yurkovich, president and CEO of COFI, tells CFI.

Despite the challenging times the B.C. forestry sector has faced over the past year, Yurkovich believes the annual convention will be an opportunity to discuss a path forward for B.C.’s forestry sector.

Yurkovich gives her opening remarks at COFI 2019 in Vancouver.

In September 2019, COFI released a document called, “Smart Future: A Path Forward for BC’s Forest Sector,” which set out 60 different ideas intended to help secure the future of the industry. The themes from this document will be present throughout the convention.

“Smart choices made now can secure a bright future for our industry, and we can’t do it alone. Industry, government, workers, contractors, unions, communities, First Nations, must work collaboratively to pave the way,” Yurkovich said.

The three-day event will kick off with an ice breaker reception on April 1, followed by speaker sessions the next two days, including updates on markets, policy, and technology. Last year, presenters touched upon the need for greater co-operation and support for the forestry sector, and this will once again be a central topic at the event.

“Booth space has already sold out, so we’re looking forward to another successful convention,” Yurkovich added.

COFI’s special early bird rate is available until Feb. 28, 2020. For more information and to register, visit www.cofi.org/conventions/2020-convention.