Sunday, June 26, 2011 – Wellington

Forest & Bird media release for immediate use


Forest & Bird elects new president

Independent conservation organisation Forest & Bird elected Andrew Cutler as its new national president at its annual conference today.

Andrew Cutler, who was previously Deputy President of Forest & Bird, replaces Barry Wards in the top position

"There has never been a more important time for Forest & Bird to be a strong voice for New Zealand's natural heritage," he said.

"There are many environmental challenges facing New Zealand. Water quality has declined, pests continue to decimate our iconic species and climate change threatens biodiversity.

“The frustrating thing is we know what action to take to prevent or solve these problems, but political willpower is lacking or our communities don't have the resources to protect their environment. It's Forest & Bird's job to advocate and encourage politicians, public agencies, businesses and communities to take action before it's too late."

Andrew Cutler lives in Wellington and has been involved in many conservation projects in the city. He spent 13 years working to establish Taputeranga Marine Reserve on Wellington’s south coast and was involved in the implementation of the “Natural Wellington” plan to improve the capital’s native biodiversity. He joined the Forest & Bird executive in 2009 and has been a member of the Wellington branch since 1993.

The new President said he was optimistic about the direction Forest & Bird was taking.

"Membership of the organisation is growing and there is determination among the 50 branches and nearly 70,000 supporters to reverse the decline of our natural environment. We are also determined to take a more active role advocating for a sustainable economy and society, and meaningful action on climate change."

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