About Resolutions
Resolution sessions are traditional components of our annual general meetings and are an excellent opportunity for you to let council know how you feel about issues facing the profession, how you would like council to react to these issues and how you would like the association to be run, among other things.

There are two types of resolutions, Advisory Resolutions and Business Resolutions. When you contemplate making a resolution, you must consider the differences between the two types. Each one also has different deadlines. The rules for each type of resolution are spelled out in our bylaws.

Advisory Resolutions
If an Advisory Resolution is carried at an annual general meeting, it is advisory only and does not bind council or the association. Historically, however, council considers each one. Advisory Resolutions:

• Are dealt with during the Advisory Resolutions Session of the AGM.
• Require one mover and one seconder (both voting members), at least one of whom must speak to the resolution during the session.
• Must be submitted in writing.
• Do not require prior written notice to members.

Business Resolutions
If a Business Resolution is carried at an annual general meeting, it will be sent by ballot to voting members within six months. If it is ratified by members, it becomes binding. Business Resolutions:

• Are dealt with during the Business Session of the AGM.
• Require one mover and not less than ten seconders (all of whom must be voting members).
• Must be submitted in writing at least 35 days before the upcoming annual general meeting. The submission must include the written text of the proposed Business Resolution along with the names, original signatures and registration numbers of the mover and all seconders.
• Require the association to send written notice to members at least 21 days prior to the annual general meeting.

How These Sessions Work
Resolutions sessions are run according to Robert’s Rules of Order. A quorum of 60 voting members is required. Proxies are not acceptable. Each resolution is read aloud. Movers or seconders are then given an opportunity to speak to the resolution, explain its intent and tell those present why it should be supported. Others who wish to speak for or against the resolution may also come forward at this time. When the debate appears to have closed (or is going around and around in circles) the resolutions chair will “call for the question” which means that a vote will be taken. Only voting members are permitted to vote on resolutions. Council are present to hear all the discussion that takes place and comment if clarification is needed. Voting takes place by a show of hands. Close votes will be counted. The chair shall declare that a resolution has, on a show of hands, been carried or defeated.

Important Dates
The deadline to submit business resolutions is January of the each year. February is the submission deadline for Advisory Resolutions. Both types of resolutions will be brought forward at the AGM during the annual forestry conference.

Forms & Publications
Advisory Resolution Form
Business Resolution Form

Additional Resources
Forestry Conference
ABCFP Bylaws
ABCFP Calendar

Some of the above documents are in PDF format. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view them. You can download Acrobat Reader here.