Impact Assessment Workshop

Impact Assessment Workshop

I had a really interesting time attending an ECO Canada workshop in Calgary on October 17. I was one of a small number of senior environmental impact assessment practitioners invited from across Canada to assist in brainstorming the possibility of a process of accreditation for the IA profession in Canada. It was great sharing perspectives with my peers, many of whom I had not met before, and identifying key issues, as well as developing priorities and attributes consistent with National Occupation Standards. I’m looking forward to participating in the next steps!

In a related activity I also participated in reviewing drafts of a Canadian Environmental Impact Assessment Industry Study developed by the Delphi Group. The report documents statistical analysis, secondary research, and industry consultation in order to profile the industry and document the evolving EA landscape in Canada, including how proposed federal regulatory changes may impact the EA workforce and related skills. I’m guessing it will be released soon and is an interesting read.

In case you’re wondering why there were no posts over the summer. My mother and remaining parent passed away, and there were some other important personal issues that needed attention.