In Memoriam – Dr. Vidar Nordin, Faculty of Forestry Dean, 1971 – 1984
Dr. Vidar Nordin, R.P.F., passed away earlier this month at the age of 99. He was a distinguished forest pathologist and academic leader who made significant contributions to the field of forestry in Canada. He began his career in 1951, after obtaining a Ph.D. in Forest Pathology from the University of Toronto, following a B.A.(Hon.) and a B.Sc. in Forestry from the University of British Columbia. He worked as the Head of the Regional Forest Pathology Laboratory for the Maritime Provinces in Fredericton until 1952, and then moved to Calgary to lead the first regional Forest Pathology Laboratory in Alberta for five years. In 1957, he joined the Canadian Forestry Service in Ottawa, where he served as Associate Director responsible for forest entomology and pathology for 12 years, and then as Research Director for another five years.
In 1971, he was appointed as Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Forestry at the University of Toronto, a position he held until 1984. During his tenure, he faced the challenge of saving the undergraduate program from declining enrolment and funding. He initiated a new restructuring plan that aimed to transform the forestry program from a traditional “lumberjacking” focus to a modern and innovative approach to natural resources management. He also updated the curriculum and pedagogy to reflect the changing needs and interests of the students and society.
One of Dr. Nordin’s most notable achievements as Dean was his leadership in establishing the Association of University Forestry Schools of Canada (AUFSC) in 1977, a national organization that brought together the six professional forestry programs in the country. He served as the President of the AUFSC from 1978 to 1980, and as a continuing member of its Executive Committee. He envisioned the AUFSC as a platform for promoting the academic excellence and social relevance of forestry education in Canada, and for advocating for more support and recognition from the public and private sectors.
He also played an important role in the management of the Algonquin Forestry Authority Corporation, a provincial agency that oversees the sustainable use of the Algonquin Provincial Park’s forest resources. He was the Board Chairman of the corporation from its inception in 1974 to 1982, and helped to develop and implement sound policies and practices for the conservation and enhancement of the park’s natural and cultural values.
Dr. Nordin’s career reflects his dedication and passion for forestry, as well as his vision and innovation for advancing the field in Canada.
For tributes and Celebration of Life information: https://ottawacitizen.remembering.ca/obituary/vidar-nordin-1089118446
