About the ECA of NSW

History of the ECA
	A group of 60 consulting ecologists met at the Australian Museum on 24 September 1998 to form a professional association to represent the interests of practicing ecological consultants. Recognition of the organisation followed 6 months of planning and organisation by a Steering Committee of Central NSW ecological consultants.
Why the Association was Formed
	Ecology is a field characterised by rapid growth and increasing complexity. Ecological assessment is an integral component of modern planning and management. During the past decade NSW has introduced some of the most comprehensive and powerful fauna and flora protection legislation in Australia and the world reflecting the global trend toward introduction of ecologically sustainable development. Until now, experts and practitioners in the field have had no professional body to oversee crucial processes such as accreditation, further education, trainaing, standards, ethics, information exchange and negotiation with government and policy makers. While experience, basic training in ecological and environmental science and technology are required, they are no longer sufficient for the practicing ecologist. Ecological consultants must now be client educators, policy and decision-makers, mediators, planners, business managers and innovators.
Goals
	The Ecological Consultants Association has been formed to provide a forum for ecological consultants to service and regulate their own profession. Formation of the association should result in better ecological outcomes, more cost effective and consistent development outcomes, providing an advantage to both developers and regulators.
Office Bearers
	President Mark Couston 1st Vice President Martin Denny 2nd Vice President Vacant     Secretary Deryk Engel Treasurer Paul Burcher Membership Officer Amy Rowles Public Officer Paul Burcher Administrative Assistant Amy Rowles     Councillors Belinda Pellow   Alison Hunt   Steven Sass   Liz Norris   Toby Lambert   Rhidian Harrington   Rebecca Hayes   Ray Williams   Stephen Ambrose
Committees
	Professional Conduct and Ethics Committee: Dr Stephen Ambrose, Martin Denny and Alison Hunt All complaints and referrals of a professional conduct nature must be submitted in writing via email or mail to the Chair. ECA Newsletter Editor: Mr. Jason Berrigan Webmaster: Mr. Stefan Rose
Ecological Consultants Association of NSW Inc.