David Martell, a professor emeritus of the University of Toronto’s Institute of Forestry and Conservation, has been recognized for Scientific Achievement by the Canadian Institute of Forestry (CIF-IFC).

The award recognizes individuals who have made innovative and outstanding achievements in forestry research in Canada.

Martell, who completed his bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate in industrial engineering at U of T, pioneered the application of operations research and management science to forests and wildfire, including the application of information technology and the development of decision support systems for fire and forest managers. His research significantly advanced the science and practice of wildfire management, enhancing understanding of fire management processes, fire detection and initial attack operations, strategic fire management planning and the impact of fire on forest management. By bridging academic research in applied contexts, Martell transformed how fire risk is understood in Canada and elsewhere in the world. As a co-founder and co-lead of U of T’s Fire Management Systems Laboratory ("Firelab"), he mentored over 30 graduate student who are leading fire and forest management work.

“We’re thrilled that the Canadian Institute of Forestry has recognized Dave’s outstanding scientific leadership,” said John Caspersen, director of the Institute of Forestry at U of T’s John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design. “His research and graduate students have really changed the way forests and fires are managed in Canada. This recognition is truly well-earned."

Martell was recognized at the CIF-IFC National Awards on Oct. 6 in Thunder Bay, ON.