Jamie Simpson, forestry program coordinator at the Ecology Action Centre has been an outspoken critic of the some controversial biomass harvesting methods carried out in Nova Scotia.

Simpson's photograph of a recent harvest carried out by Northern Pulp, showing a barren clearcut, has been shown by the media multiple times in recent months. While speaking out against these harvests, and the use of whole-tree harvesting for biomass production, Simpson has identified himself as a forester, with an RPF status.

The Chronicle Herald quoted Jamie Simpson as saying the cuts were "the worst of the worst, and the science is clear that this practice is not sustainable.

"It’s hard to believe this is happening in Nova Scotia in the 21st century," Mr. Simpson said about a site near Caribou Mines that was harvested last fall by Northern Pulp Nova Scotia Corp.

"It’s an embarrassment."

The Registered Professional Foresters Association of Nova Scotia has filed a formal complaint against Simpson. The Association says Mr. Simpson has breached the professional code of ethics.

Ian Miller, president of the Nova Scotia Association, said in a letter of complaint, that Mr. Simpson misrepresented his qualifications by using the registered professional foresters designation he attained in New Brunswick, a designation that only applies in that province and not in Nova Scotia. The association has asked that Mr. Simpson "cease and desist" using the RPF designation in this province when dealing with local forestry topics.

The Nova Scotia association has also complained that Mr. Simpson breached the association’s code of ethics by publicly calling into question the work of other foresters, and by actions that reflect poorly on the profession.

Mr. Simpson has a master’s of science degree in forestry from the University of New Brunswick. He has worked on a variety of forest conservation and forest certification projects in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Mexico, and recently authored a book about forest ecology and restoration for woodlot owners in the Maritimes.

The Registered Professional Foresters of New Brunswick has received the complaint and will have a committee investigate, and if warranted, will refer the matter to a disciplinary committee.

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Forestry association cries foul - Complaint filed against outspoken critic of harvesting practices in N.S. (Chronicle Herald)