A Suitably Qualified and Experienced Practitioner (SQEP) is a qualified expert responsible for specific forestry activities under the forestry consent conditions.
Standard forestry consent conditions require forestry companies to use SQEPs for certain activities to:
- prepare forestry plans
- manage or inspect work on the ground
- verify that work has been completed in line with approved plans and standards.
Industry feedback identified limited SQEP capacity in the region and the need for a clearer and a more consistent approach. This certification process has been developed to provide a practical way to recognise practitioners. It gives our communities confidence that forestry activities are being planned, managed and verified to an appropriate standard.
Who needs to apply?
Not everyone needs to become a SQEP. Some practitioners may already meet the SQEP definition through the qualifications and experience set out in the consent conditions.
At the time of lodging a forestry resource consent application, we need to confirm whether the person preparing the plans is a SQEP. Practitioners who do not automatically meet the definition can apply for certification to demonstrate equivalent qualifications and experience.
Types of activities requiring a SQEP
Different SQEP categories apply to different forestry activities. These may include:
- harvesting
- earthworks and construction management
- erosion and sediment control
- river crossings
- post-harvest stability work
A practitioner may be recognised as a SQEP for some activities, but not others, depending on their expertise.
Apply for SQEP certification
To apply for SQEP certification, complete the application form and provide supporting documents outlined in Appendix One.
The appendix also includes requirements for exemptions from SQEP provisions.
Processing applications
We aim to process complete applications within 20 working days. Timeframes may vary depending on application completeness and complexity.
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Qualifications and experience requirements
Requirements vary depending on the type of forestry activity. Typically, practitioners will need:
- relevant qualifications (eg. forestry, engineering, environmental management, geotechnical)
- practical industry experience.
Applicants are expected to demonstrate at least 5-years of relevant experience.
Why 5 years' experience is required
The 5-year requirement reflects the level of practical knowledge and judgement needed to manage complex forestry activities, particularly on high-risk land. This ensures SQEPs have strong technical capability and proven experience working in challenging forestry environments.
Certification duration and renewal
SQEP certification is expected to be valid for up to 3-years. After this period, certification may require review or renewal.
Can certification be revoked?
Yes. Council may revoke certification if there are serious concerns about professional practice or ongoing non-compliance with required standards.
How this applies to existing forestry applications
SQEP requirements sit within existing forestry consent conditions already in place. For applications and consents already underway, implementation may vary depending on the stage of the application and the specific conditions involved.
In some cases, existing plans may still be used, but SQEP involvement will be required for:
- amendments to plans
- management of works
- verification that works have been completed and meet approved plans and standards.
Why this approach is being used in Tairāwhiti
Tairāwhiti has some of the most erosion-prone land in the country and faces unique environmental risks associated with forestry activities. Some significant adverse effects have been caused by past poor practices within the industry.
This process ensures forestry activities in the region are properly planned, professionally managed and independently verified by appropriately qualified and experienced practitioners.