The Fur Institute of Canada (FIC) is pleased to announce that Jim Gibb of North Bay, Ontario, has been elected to serve as the Chair of the Board of Directors. Gibb assumed his new post during the 35th Annual General Meeting in Kelowna, British Columbia.
Gibb is a life-long trapper and wildlife control expert who has been involved with the FIC since 1991 and has been an active member of the organization in almost every facet. He has chaired nearly every committee throughout his time with the FIC including the Trap Research and Development and Communications committees.
The big thing about FIC for me is how it represents every part of the fur trade, from government to farmers to trappers and sealers, as well as retailers, manufacturers, veterinary pathologists, biologists, and scientists,” Gibb said. “It is an organization that welcomes the voice of all of those involved.
“The Trap Research work that the Fur Institute of Canada does is very important, but the Fur Institute of Canada is much more than just trap research,” Gibb said. “We are an organization of people with vast knowledge from all aspects of the sustainable use and furbearer management industry.
Gibb says the Fur Institute of Canada serving as the face for the Canadian Fur Trade domestically and internationally allows the organization to play a key role in conservation, science, management and trade of natural, sustainable Canadian fur.
Gibb says his priority as the incoming Chair of the Board of Directors is to develop and implement a plan for succession for the organization. To do this he hopes to work with the committees and members to engage with younger people to have a new generation ready and willing to work with the FIC, strengthening the organization for the future.
“I look forward to working with all members and committees on the important work they are all doing for the betterment of the sustainable use in Canada, “Gibb said. “The Fur Institute of Canada has many projects ongoing and I hope to tap into what is a vast knowledge base from the urban centres right out to the many rural and coastal communities directly attached to the culture and economic benefit of this wonderful industry. We hope to collectively accomplish great things moving forward.”
