British Columbia is world renowned for its incredible wilderness landscape, mountains, rivers, lakes and forests. It’s a great place to live, work and play. Our forests are regionally diverse – from coastal and interior rainforests, dry belt pine and fir forest and higher elevation spruce and balsam, old growth and new growth – they all have one thing in common … trees! 
Whether working or playing, it is essential to be aware of a forest’s potential hazards and what can put you at risk, specifically as it relates to the trees. …“If a tree falls in the forest, does anyone hear?” … only if someone is near enough to hear. The same applies to the danger it may pose. If no one is near it, then even if it falls, it isn’t a danger to anyone. Spend enough time in a forest and you will witness a tree fall over on its own.
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Forest Fires
Seeing the Forest for the TreesBeautiful British Columbia is world renowned for its incredible wilderness landscape, mountains, rivers, lakes and forests. It’s a great place to live, work and play.
Our forests are regionally diverse – from coastal and interior rainforests, dry belt pine and fir forest and higher elevation spruce and balsam, old growth and new growth – they all have one thing in common … trees!
Whether working or playing, it is essential to be aware of a forest’s potential hazards and what can put you at risk, specifically as it relates to the trees.
What makes a tree hazardous?
A dangerous tree is any tree (regardless of its size) that is hazardous to people or facilities because of:
- It’s location or “lean”
- Physical damage
- Overhead hazards
- Deterioration of limbs, stems or root system
- A combination of the above
Truth be told, any tree has potential to be a hazard in certain circumstances. Weather, the environment and the condition of a tree can all render it a danger tree.
Answering the age-old question “If a tree falls in the forest, does anyone hear?” … only if someone is near enough to hear. The same applies to the danger it may pose. If no one is near it, then even if it falls, it isn’t a danger to anyone. Spend enough time in a forest and you will witness a tree fall over on its own. It’s a natural part of the forest’s cycle.
How do you determine if a tree is a hazard?
Use the Recognize, Evaluate, and Control method, commonly referred to as REC.
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Recognize the Hazard |
From a distance, observe as much of the stand of trees as possible, focusing on any individual trees that show signs of defect. The more time spent exposed to a potential hazard tree, a more detailed assessment is required. Remember, not all dead trees are danger trees and not all green trees are safe trees. |
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Evaluate the Situation/Hazard |
Perform a 360° assessment of the tree, looking for lean and defects to determine if it is a danger. Consider the effect weather and environment have on the tree and the time spent within its danger zone. Moving through the forest means very little time spent exposed to a danger tree, however the risk would go up if the wind was blowing or if a person remained stationary for a longer period in the danger zone. Are you walking by it or pitching your tent under it? |
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Control the Hazard |
Determine the best ways to reduce the risk the danger trees pose. The best solution is elimination – either eliminate the hazards around you or remove yourself from around the hazards. A qualified person could fall the tree, use alternate falling methods, or create a defined no-work zone around the tree that keeps people out of the danger zone of the hazard. |
For recreational users enjoying the forest, be situationally aware by keeping your head up and looking around. Pay attention to weather conditions and how they may affect the area. Hiking or walking is considered a low-risk activity when the time spent exposed to any single danger tree is minimal but the risk increases with temperature changes, rain, wind and snow, or if the stand has a high number of danger trees due to root rot, bug kill or recent fire damage.
Always keep in mind the risk goes up with extended exposure so when you stop in a forested area, take a moment to look around and spot any trees that can strike you if they fall over. Walk around them and look for defects or signs of weakness. If you identify any danger trees, relocate to a different area so you are no longer in the strike zone – at minimum 1.5 tree lengths away from the potential hazard.
In my humble opinion, working in the forest is arguably the best! Fresh air, incredible sights, sounds and … trees! Before forestry work begins, the Worker’s Compensation Act and Occupational Health & Safety Regulation require that a qualified person perform a site hazard assessment. The REC process should be applied to any identified hazards and information communicated to all workers prior to work commencing. In a forest environment, this includes a tree assessment to determine if any trees affecting the work area are danger trees.
Appropriate controls must be applied to reduce the risk danger trees pose to workers and, where feasible, the danger tree must be felled. Fallers need to have an appropriate plan that prioritizes the removal of an identified danger tree into an open area as soon as it is safe to do so. To overcome a falling difficulty, the plan can include using Qualified Assistance. If the tree is unsafe to fall, then alternate falling methods may be used.
What if the danger tree can’t be felled?
There may be several reasons a danger tree cannot be felled. One of the most important, is not having a qualified person available to fall the tree. A faller may assess the tree and determine whether an adequate opening is present, if the tree is controllable, or if there is an appropriate escape route. If any of these are questionable then the tree can be deemed unsafe to fall. In these instances, the only course of action is to create a defined no-work zone around the danger tree to keep workers out of the danger zone of the tree. A no-work zone has to be physically marked, typically with yellow no-work zone ribbon to mark the danger zone boundary. The size and shape of the no-work zone depends on the size and lean of the hazard, the terrain the hazard is located on, weather conditions and the surrounding timber. The hazard and no-work zone need to be documented, marked on the map and shared with any workers who may be affected by the danger tree hazard.
Who can assess trees and decide if they are safe or dangerous?
The Wildlife Danger Tree Assessor course (WDTAC) provides valuable instruction on assessing dangerous trees and evaluating wildlife habitat value in forestry, (non-urban) parks and wildland fire situations. The course is recognized as the current “standard of care” (the best available and accepted standards and practices) in BC by the Ministry of Forests, Ministry of Environment and WorkSafeBC, and includes three modules:
- Parks and Recreation Sites
- Wildland Fire Safety
- Forest Activities (e.g., harvesting, silviculture, resource roads, oil & gas)
BC forests are a vital resource and provide amazing benefits to us all. From providing renewable fibre, climate health, wildlife ecologies and a place for us to work and play, it is essential for all of us to see the forest for the trees as every tree should be appreciated and respected for what it is and the story it has to tell. If you’re in the forest, look for the story, as it may just save your life.
Additional resources:
Online Training: Introduction to Dangerous Trees on Forestry Worksites
Dangerous Tree Blasting for Certified Fallers
University of Northern British Columbia: Wildlife Danger Tree Assessor Certificate Program
Stay Informed and Stay Safe
Building a strong safety culture begins with consistent, meaningful conversations. The BC Forest Safety Council (BCFSC) and the Manufacturing Advisory group have partnered to provide weekly Manufacturing Safety Crew Talks and Safety Alerts with timely, relevant safety topics to kick start your safety conversations. These weekly resources are simple yet powerful tools to help keep safety conversations alive and evolving in your workplace.
Manufacturing Safety Crew Talks
BCFSC offers a library of hundreds of Crew Talks each designed to support short, focused safety discussions in five minutes or less. They support effective supervisor-worker engagement, helping spark meaningful conversations about current safety procedures and concerns. They can be used for:
- Pre-job or shift meetings
- Toolbox talks
- Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee (JOHSC) meetings
- Any time you want to reinforce safety awareness
You can download Crew Talks directly from the BCFSC website or subscribe to receive them weekly via email.
The Manufacturing Safety Alerts provide real-world learning opportunities by highlighting recent incidents from across the industry. These reports are voluntarily shared by sawmills and forest products manufacturing companies, with all identifying information removed. Each alert includes:
- A clear description of the incident
- The outcome
- Key takeaways and suggested actions to help prevent similar events
These alerts are a valuable tool for reinforcing proactive safety measures by learning from others. Like the Crew Talks, they are available for download on the BCFSC website or by email subscription.
Extreme Heat and Worker SafetyIn recent years we have seen an increase in the unpredictable nature of summer weather conditions. Recently BC broke numerous heat records due to a heat dome which led to an unprecedented number of heat related illnesses and fatalities. 
People who work outdoors can often be at the highest risk for heat-related illnesses and injuries during hot summer conditions. High temperatures and sunshine can be a wonderful thing when enjoying time at the lake or on the beach but can cause serious health issues. The wide variety of job roles and often rigorous physical activity in forestry can put workers at risk for heat-related illness if not managed properly.
The Sunshine Coast Community Forest is being recognized for its excellence in forestry and its effect on the community, receiving the 2025 Robin Hood Memorial Award for Excellence in Community Forestry on Tuesday, May 27, 2025. “When you hear about local leaders and the incredible benefits they bring to their community through forestry, you can just tell this is what the future of forestry looks like,” said Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests. “The Sunshine Coast Community Forest is this future and is leading with a community-first approach that weaves together local economic resiliency with healthy forests to support those who call the Sunshine Coast home.” …“It means a lot to us to be recognized among the many exceptional community forests in B.C.,” said Sara Zieleman, executive director, Sunshine Coast Community Forest. …The Robin Hood Memorial Award for Excellence in Community Forestry was established in 2016 to honour the life and legacy of the late Robin Hood.
qathet Regional District’s planning committee is recommending the regional board express no objection to a Western Forest Products helicopter logging operation on Powell Lake. At the May 27 planning committee meeting, directors considered a recommendation to advise the provincial ministry of water, land and resource stewardship that the regional district has no objection to the crown land application for a licence of occupation for the purpose of industrial log handling and storage on the northern arm of the lake. Electoral Area A director and committee chair Jason Lennox said there was a detailed staff report on the application. “I’m in support of the recommendation,” said Lennox. “If you read the report, it’s a three-year activity for harvesting into the lake. You will see the different due diligence pieces in there around mitigation measures to the environment; the Powell Region Cabin Owners Association was consulted as well.
British Columbia’s forests are home to a diverse range of wildlife species, which play a significant role in the ecology of a living forest. At the Forest Enhancement Society of BC, we recognize that responsible forest management plays a crucial role in enhancing wildlife habitat and supporting biodiversity. Because of this, one of our key purposes as an organization is to help improve wildlife habitat within B.C.’s forests. Collaborating with the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation we have supported over 100 wildlife habitat enhancement projects restoring forest health and evaluating the habitat and wildlife response to fire… In this newsletter: Tick Safety from the BC Forest Safety Council; An interview with Thomas Sullivan, Applied Mammal Research Institute; 64 newly funded forest enhancement projects; Lower Nicola Indian Band wildfire risk reduction; and a UBC Faculty of Forestry survey explores interest in international tours.
In September 2023, UBC Faculty of Forestry led a tour of 31 BC foresters, technologists, and allied professionals on a study tour in Finland with the purpose of increasing our understanding of Finland forestry. We have since received a number of inquiries about upcoming forestry study tours to Finland. We are certainly capable of organizing a new tour if there is enough interest among the BC forestry professionals. With this survey, we are exploring the initial interest for a new tour, the best timing for the tour and expectations for learning objectives. Would you be interested in possibly attending the study tour? Please complete our survey and share your thoughts and expectations.
The Red Flag Warning has been sounded by Alberta Wildfire. But what does it mean? It means conditions are ripe for the ignition and fast-moving spread of wildfires. The forest-fire experts use a sliding scale, first adopted by the U.S. National Weather Service, to determine how dry the conditions are in the forest areas, and how the wind could help fan the flames if that dry tinder is ignited. Basically, a score is calculated based on wind speed, heat and the lack of humidity. A sample document provided by Alberta Wildfire shows a hypothetical watch being created when the maximum daily temperatures is expected to hit 33 Celsius, the humidity is at 25 per cent or lower, and wind speeds are 10 km/h. Basically, when it is punishingly hot and dry, it doesn’t take a lot of wind to trigger an alert. “And, just like weather alerts, “watch” is one level below “warning.”
A meteorologist is warning the upcoming weather forecast isn’t good news for the wildfire outlook in northern Saskatchewan, with hot, dry and windy conditions in the foreseeable future. “We’re not getting any relief, unfortunately,” said Justin Shelly, a meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada. “We’re expecting very warm conditions to continue.” A cold front will develop from Alberta that will move to Saskatchewan on Friday, but it will only create some isolated chances of showers and thunderstorms, said Shelly. “There’s not going to be a lot of accumulations in terms of rainfall amounts associated with this,” he said. Shelly said another system from Alberta will be coming Saturday night into Sunday morning, but most of the rainfall will hit isolated spots of northern Saskatchewan, with only about five to 15 millimetres in those areas.
New homes development got a shot in the arm this spring with April starts rising in Canada and the United States. Recent reports from TD Economics examined new home data in both markets, finding month-over-month rises in starts for April. In Canada, starts jumped 30 per cent month over month, marking the largest rise since June 2023. Driving growth was the multi-family family segment that saw starts rise 34 per cent, whereas single-family detached home starts gained six per cent from March. …TD noted the “bounce-back” in activity was not unsurprising given levels were so low to start the year. What’s more, housing starts could “be softening,” amid higher construction costs and lower immigration, it cautioned. In the U.S., activity was less robust by percentage growth. Starts there increased less than two per cent month over month.
Orders to evacuate in the face of surging wildfires continued to spread Thursday as hot, dry conditions fuelled forest blazes in the province’s north. That comes as much of the province came under a rarely issued red flag warning, meaning if wildfires break out, they’re more likely to spread and grow due to warmer temperatures, stronger winds and dry forest fuel. As a large area of the province’s north burns, the fire hazard west of Calgary is listed as high to very high, leading to increased vigilance among emergency officials and more calls for stepped-up forest management to reduce the wildfire threat. “In all fairness, the government of Alberta has done a good job in its commercially forested zones, but not so much in its parks and set-aside areas,” said Rick Doman, a longtime forestry industry figure who’s campaigning to better protect the Bow Valley from what many see as ripe for a catastrophic blaze.
Additional coverage in CBC by Wallis Snowdon: Hundreds ordered to evacuate overnight in northern Alberta as wildfires flare
City receives funding through Forest Enhancement Society
Kimberley Fire Chief Will Booth was at the most recent meeting of City Council, discussing the 2025 Community Wildfire Resiliency Plan, but also advising Council that grant funding has been awarded through the Forest Enhancement Society of British Columbia (FESBC). …These funds will support a major project to help build a larger buffer against wildfires along Kimberley’s western flank. It will involve thinning and slash piling and burning in six identified units within the Horse Barn Valley, or just south of it. The Fire Department has identified these units to help support the future development of a 140-hectare unit prescribed burn. The three main goals of the project are to reduce active crown fire potential, reduce surface fire intensity and long-range spotting and increase wildfire resilience.
Weyerhaeuser Company and Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance (FBHA) today announced an extension of their Fighting Fires Together campaign, a partnership that provides specialized mental health support for wildland firefighters and their families across the Pacific Northwest. Fighting Fires Together, now in its fourth year, addresses the often-overlooked mental health impacts of wildland firefighting in isolated, hazardous and highly stressful conditions. Through a free online resource hub, first responders can find specially designed content, including videos about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, depression, anxiety and suicide prevention, along with mental health tips, educational articles and contacts for occupationally aware support groups and counselors in Oregon, Washington and British Columbia. Weyerhaeuser’s support for wildland firefighting efforts in the Pacific Northwest began in the aftermath of the Yacolt Burn in 1902, when the company began advocating for Washington’s first forest fire legislation and the funding of community fire prevention education and patrols.
Boeing Canada says it’s investing millions of dollars into business ventures in B.C. and Quebec with the eventual goal of producing close to 200 million litres of sustainable jet fuel every year. The announcement, made Wednesday, includes nearly $17.5 million split between two projects looking to turn wood waste and carbon captured from industrial smokestacks into sustainable aviation fuel. The fuel, known in industry as SAF, has the potential to reduce carbon emissions by up to 80 per cent over its lifecycle and “offers the fastest route to decarbonization in the aviation sector,” according to Boeing. Boeing’s latest investment will direct $10 million to Project Avance, a joint venture between Bioenergie AECN and Alder Renewables in Port Cartier, Que. The project aims to convert wood residue from sawmills into low-carbon bio-crude that can later be converted into almost 38 million litres of unblended jet fuel every year.
The Quw’utsun Nation and the Municipality of North Cowichan are moving forward on a co-management framework for the Municipal Forest Reserve. The initiative is being developed with the help of Your Wayfinders Management Solutions, a project management consulting firm. The goal is to create a partnership in key areas like shared decision-making, economic opportunities, Indigenous forest practices, recreation, and stewardship of culturally sensitive areas. A final draft plan is expected by early 2026. In the meantime, North Cowichan has paused new decisions on the forest reserve, but essential activities like FireSmart work and invasive species control will continue. North Cowichan had a technical review and public engagement done for the forest reserve between 2020 and 2023, and a preferred forest management scenario favouring ecological and sustainable values was presented to council.
Related content in the Lake Cowichan Gazette, letter by Larry Pynn: Glen Ridgway: the ex-politician who can’t see the forest for the clearcuts
First fire ban coming for Vancouver Island & Coastal Fire Centre
NANAIMO — Larger, open fires are set to be banned for the summer months, effective at the end of this week. The Coastal Fire Centre will enact a sweeping ban on category two and three fires beginning at noon on Friday, May 30, a typical first step in their fire prevention efforts every summer. Banned across Vancouver Island and a vast majority of coastal B.C. will be large burn piles or burns over stubble or grass to certain measurements. Also banned are fireworks, exploding targets, burn barrels and cages, air curtain burners and other, similar open flames. …“Anyone found in contravention of an open fire prohibition may be issued a violation ticket for $1,150, required to pay an administrative penalty of up to $10,000 or, if convicted in court, fined up to $100,000 and/or sentenced to one year in jail,” the BC Wildfire Services stated.
Working in forestry can be challenging, not just physically, but psychologically as well. That’s why WorkSafeBC is advising forestry employers and workers about the importance of paying attention to psychological health and safety. 
Managing psychological health and safety in the workplace is as important as managing physical health and safety. A psychologically healthy and safe workplace prevents harm to workers’ mental health and promotes mental well-being. While many factors outside the workplace can affect mental health, it is an employer’s responsibility to address the factors that are within the control, responsibility, or influence of the workplace. Psychological health and safety involves how people interact with each other daily, how working conditions and management practices are structured, and how decisions are made and communicated. In the forestry sector, workers face unique psychological challenges, including financial stress from an unstable market, job instability, social isolation, and the impact of climate change and severe weather conditions.
As work activity increases across British Columbia, ensuring your team is properly trained is more important than ever. Whether you’re onboarding new employees or supporting a seasoned crew, the BC Forest Safety Council (BCFSC) offers a wide range of training resources to help workers understand how to perform their jobs safely and confidently.
Explore Our Training Options
Online Learning Centre
Over 40 free, self-paced courses are designed for workers and companies in BC’s harvesting and wood fibre manufacturing sectors. Learn anytime, anywhere. Courses include:
- Basic Forest Worker
- Basics of Due Diligence – Forest Supervisor
- Basics of Effective Communication – Forest Supervisor
- Basics of Leadership and Professionalism – Forest Supervisor
- Blasting Hazards and Safety
- Chokerperson
- Combustible Dust Training for Contractors
- Combustible Dust Training for Managers and Employers
- Combustible Dust Training for Workers
- Contractor Management – Wood Products Manufacturing Supervisor
- Cornerstones of Effective Safety Supervision – Forest Supervisor
- Cornerstones of Effective Safety Supervision – Wood Products Manufacturing Supervisor
- Describe Safe Decision Making in a Forestry Workplace
- Due Diligence – Wood Products Manufacturing Supervisor
- Effective Communication – Wood Products Manufacturing Supervisor
- Forestry Safety Overview
- Grapple Yarder Operator
- Hazard Identification, Inspection and Investigation – Forest Supervisor
- Hazard Identification, Inspection, Investigation – Wood Products Manufacturing Supervisor
- Hook Tender
- Identifying Hazards and Assessing Risk – Wood Product Manufacturing
- Individual Owner Operator – Refresher
- Introduction to Dangerous Trees on Forestry Worksites
- Landing/Utility Person
- Leadership and Professionalism – Wood Products Manufacturing Supervisor
- Legal Requirements for Forestry Blasting
- Mechanized Harvesting
- Off-Road Vehicle Knowledge Unit
- Orientation, Training and Skills Development – Forest Supervisor
- Orientation, Training and Skills Development – Wood Products Manufacturing
- Phase Congestion Training
- Professional Industry Driver Online Training
- Resource Road Driver Knowledge Unit
- Rigging Slinger
- Road Building
- Serious Incident Investigation
- Small Employer OHS – Refresher
- Stand Tender
- Tower Operator
- Winch Assist Harvesting
New courses are added regularly—check the Course Catalogue for the latest offerings.
In-Person Training
Join our instructor-led sessions this Fall and Winter 2025. These courses offer subject matter expert instruction, peer-to-peer interaction and printed materials. Upcoming sessions include:
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Oct 6 |
Nelson |
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Oct 9 |
Kamloops |
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Oct 15 |
Cranbrook |
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Oct 16 |
Campbell River |
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Oct 17 |
Cranbrook |
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Oct 23 |
Prince George |
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Oct 23 |
Nelson |
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Nov 4 |
Campbell River |
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Nov 7 |
Prince George |
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Nov 7 |
Kamloops |
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Nov 13 |
Kamloops |
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Nov 14 |
Campbell River |
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Nov 24 |
Campbell River |
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Nov 27 |
Prince George |
Visit the BCFSC Course Schedule to enroll. Need training at your site? We also offer requested training sessions where our instructors come to your location at cost-recovery pricing. Email training@bcforestsafe.org to learn more.
Worker Assessments
Ensure your team is job-ready with our industry-developed assessment tools. Supervisors can use these to verify workers have the knowledge, skills and attributes to do their job safely and productively.
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Basic Forest Worker Assessment |
Light Truck Driver Assessment |
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Yarding |
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Grapple Yarder Operator Assessment Landing/Utility Person Assessment Tower Operator Assessment |
Hook Tender Assessment Chokerperson Assessment Rigging Slinger Assessment |
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Mechanized Harvesting |
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Feller Buncher Operator Assessment Processor Operator Assessment Forwarder Operator Assessment |
Skidder Operator Assessment Hydraulic Log Loader Operator Assessment Hoe Chucker Operator Assessment |
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Road Building |
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Dozer Operator Assessment Grade Operator Assessment Rock Drill Operator Assessment Backhoe Operator Assessment |
Excavator Operator Assessment Wheel Loader Operator Assessment Articulated Rock Truck Operator Assessment Blaster Assessment |
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Silviculture |
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Silviculture Supervisor Assessment |
Stand Tender Assessment |
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Wood Products Manufacturing |
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Supervisor Assessment |
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Marine |
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Small Vessel Operator Assessment |
Boom Boat Operator Assessment |
Webinars
Expand your knowledge with our on-demand webinars covering a wide range of forest safety topics.
BCFSC is available to support your training and safety goals. If you have questions or need help choosing the right course, don’t hesitate to reach out – training@bcforestsafe.org.
Emergency Preparedness and Response
Is your company ready for an emergency? Emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere—but in BC’s forestry industry, where remote locations and difficult terrain are becoming more commonplace, being prepared isn’t optional. It’s essential. Having a well-thought-out and thoroughly tested Emergency Response Plan (ERP) can make all the difference—especially during The Golden Hour – where every second counts.
WorkSafeBC mandates that employers should be prepared for an emergency as part of their regulatory and legal compliance. Companies are required to create site-specific ERPs related to their operations and need to consider and prepare for various emergency situations. They are also required to conduct regular emergency and first aid drills as part of their annual drill requirements to ensure workers understand their roles and responsibilities.
As forestry operations in BC move into more remote and rugged areas, getting help to an injured worker quickly can be a serious challenge. In some cases, it’s a matter of life or death where every second counts. To help companies build stronger ERPs—especially when it comes to worker extraction—the BC Forest Safety Council (BCFSC) and the Trucking and Harvesting Advisory Group (TAG) created a video series. These videos walk through real-life scenarios to help employers understand how to verify the effectiveness of their plans and spot any weak points to make critical improvements.
Emergency Response Plan Video Series
Equipment Rollover and Operator Extraction Procedures – this video features a logging crew conducting an emergency extraction drill and demonstrates the process and tools used for a crew-initiated extraction as well as a self-extraction done by the operator inside an over-turned cab.
Operator Extraction and Steep Slope Rescue Drill – this video demonstrates some challenges that crews could consider and be prepared for during a steep slope rescue.
Air Medivac Procedures Part 1: Planning Requirements – this video covers planning requirements for the helicopter evacuation of a critically injured worker.
Air Medivac Procedures Part 2: Practice Drills – this video covers the helicopter evacuation of a critically injured worker by two means of extraction: the helicopter landing and a long-line.
If you would like to learn more about Emergency Response Planning and conducting emergency drills, visit the BCFSC website or contact BCFSC Transportation and Northern Safety by email at transport.admin@bcforestsafe.org.
AISIX Solutions Inc. Launches New Website Offering Wildfire Risk Solutions for Key Industries
Vancouver, BC — AISIX Solutions Inc., a wildfire risk assessment and analytics solutions provider, unveiled its newly redesigned website at www.aisix.ca. The platform is now purpose-built to help industry professionals in insurance, government, engineering, finance, and natural resources discover sector-specific climate risk solutions, explore data-driven case studies, and request live product demos with ease. AISIX’s wildfire intelligence tools-such as Wildfire 3.0, MineSafe Wildfire are now accessible through a simplified and intuitive digital experience. Visitors can explore how AISIX’s high-resolution climate risk datasets and APIs power mission-critical decisions for asset protection, regulatory reporting, and long-term resilience planning.
Manitoba has declared a provincewide state of emergency as wildfires continue to threaten communities across the province. An emergency alert issued at around 5:25 p.m. CT Wednesday said the measure was due to rapidly spreading wildfires and extreme fire conditions in northern and eastern Manitoba. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew said the “significant step” will involve the evacuation of about 17,000 people as fires continued to intensify throughout Wednesday. “This is the largest evacuation Manitoba will have seen in most people’s living memory,” Kinew said Wednesday. It’s believed to be the largest evacuation since 1997, when the “Flood of the Century” in the Red River valley forced about 25,000 people from their homes. Evacuation orders have been issued for the city of Flin Flon, Pimicikamak Cree Nation and the northern community of Cross Lake, along with Pukatawagan Cree Nation, also known as Mathias Colomb First Nation, Kinew said.
Christine Gelowitz
Forest Professionals of BC Chief Executive Officer Christine Gelowitz stepped into her current role as CEO of Forest Professionals British Columbia (FPBC), formerly the Association of BC Forest Professionals, with a wealth of forest policy knowledge. She completed a Bachelor of Science in natural resource management, majoring in forestry from the University of Northern BC, and found her career footing managing large, multi-year contracts with Forest Renewal BC. Later, Christine worked as a research officer with the Ministry of Sustainable Resource Management and later held several senior leadership positions with the BC Ministry of Forests, largely in forest policy and planning. “I am most proud of overseeing the shift in the regulation of professional forestry that occurred due to the passage of the Professional Governance Act in 2018, replacing the Foresters Act that was first established in 1947. We had 14 months to revamp FPBC to legally operate under the Act,” said Gelowitz.
In a world on fire, making the case for burning more
Kevin Kriese
In Smithers, B.C., Kevin Kriese explains why he believes people need to change how they think about wildfire. A former assistant deputy minister with the provincial government and recently retired chair of the B.C. Forest Practices Board, Kriese is now a senior wildfire analyst with the POLIS wildfire resilience project. He’s tall and athletic (an avid skier) and a passionate advocate for land-based solutions to ecological challenges. He speaks with the confidence of someone who has spent his entire career navigating seemingly intractable problems — but admits getting people on board with the idea of living with more fire on the land is no easy task. “Fires do have this destructive force to communities — and they should be stopped from that destruction,” he says. “At the same time, if you understand the ecology, we want more of it. It’s that dichotomy that we’re trying to get at.”
Protecting Hearing in the Forest IndustryEmployers must follow safety protocols, ensure proper hearing protection, and regularly monitor noise levels. Forestry workers in BC are frequently exposed to high levels of noise, often for extended periods, which can result in serious hearing damage. 
Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is not just a long-term risk, it’s a fast-growing occupational disease that affects workers across the province. Over the past decade, WorkSafeBC has accepted almost 2,000 claims for hearing loss in the forestry sector. To prevent hearing loss, employers in the forestry sector must proactively recognize risks and understand the specific tasks workers will undertake, making pre-work planning a key step in injury prevention. The impact of noise on hearing “The risk of hearing loss depends on both noise level and exposure time,” says Sasha Brown, an occupational audiologist with WorkSafeBC. “For example, brief exposure to extremely loud noise or sustained exposure to moderate levels can be equally damaging to hearing.”
Sharing safety innovations is vital for sawmills and wood fibre manufacturing because it encourages a spirit of continuous safety improvement. By exchanging ideas and practical solutions, we collectively reduce risks and foster a culture of continuous improvement, where the well-being of every worker is front and centre.
The BC Forest Safety Council, in collaboration with the Manufacturing Advisory Group (MAG), encourage companies to share their safety innovation ideas to reinforce a shared commitment to industry-wide safety excellence. This Safety Innovation initiative is designed to ensure that safety remains a top priority as the industry evolves.
Safety innovations are typically developed by workers who have identified an area of concern. These grassroots solutions are especially valuable because they are:
- Easily adoptable across different operations
- Proven to significantly improve workplace safety
- Targeted at high-risk areas such as Working at Heights, Safeguarding, Mobile Equipment, and Lockout procedures
Take a look at the latest Safety Innovation submissions that highlight practical, effective safety improvements:
- Tolko: Locking Out Gravity – A solution designed to prevent unexpected movement of equipment due to gravitational forces during maintenance.
- Interfor: Lockout Zone Safety Curtains – A visual and physical barrier system that enhances safety during lockout procedures.
- West Fraser: Using a Conveyor for Debris Management – A method to reduce
These innovations demonstrate how simple, thoughtful changes can make a significant impact on worker safety. By continuing to share and implement such ideas, we move forward together—stronger, safer and more united in our commitment to worker safety.
Resource Road SafetyResource roads are built to develop and protect BC’s natural resources. They provide access for industrial and recreational users but are not constructed to the same standards as highways. All resource road users play a key role in ensuring safe passage on these roads. Always exercise caution and have an understanding of the risks.
Most resource roads have gravel surfaces and are often single lanes with limited visibility due to roadside brush and sharp, winding turns and curves. They often have soft shoulders, minimal ditches, steeper grades, changing road surfaces with loose or rough gravel and potholes.
Drivers should always read and understand the signs at the start of the road and along the way as they provide important information about the road, radio channel, restrictions, expected traffic and other hazards and obstacles you may encounter while driving.
Rules of the Road
- Yield to industrial traffic.
- Drive on the right-hand side.
- Adjust your speed according to road and weather conditions.
- Obey the posted speed limit and never exceed 80 km/h.
- Keep headlights and taillights on.
- Stop in safe, visible locations, ideally in pullouts.
- Bridges are single-lane.
- Do not overtake industrial vehicles unless the driver signals it is safe.
Expect the Unexpected
- Always plan ahead. Complete a pre-trip plan and share it with a reliable person.
- Stay alert and focused on driving.
- Watch for wildlife.
- Extinguish all flames and report forest fires.
- Dust indicates traffic; watch the road.
- If lost or stranded, stay with your vehicle for easier rescue.
Mobile Radio Use
If you are using a mobile radio, know where you are travelling and use the posted channels and call protocols. If you are unaware of which channels to use, contact or visit a local mobile radio shop who can provide the correct channels for the area and even program your radio for you.
When you are travelling, you will find the radio and call protocols typically posted at the beginning of the resource road and in areas along the way. Use the following protocol instructions when using a mobile radio while travelling on resource roads:
- Road Name
- Kilometres Location
- “Up” or “Down”
- Calling “Up” when travelling in direction of increasing kilometres signs
- Calling “Down” when travelling in direction of decreasing kilometres signs
Example: “Sukunka, 10 kilometre, Up”
If you don’t have a two-way radio on an active haul road, wait at the beginning of the road and then follow a vehicle equipped with one. Mirror its actions: pull over when they do, drive when they drive and match their speed. If no vehicle with a radio arrives to escort you, then proceed with extreme caution.
Understanding how to communicate while travelling on a resource road could save your life and the lives of others. Stay safe and informed, and always expect the unexpected.
Additional BCFSC Resources:
- Resource Road Safety
- Resource Road Orientation YouTube Video
- Radio Use and Road Calling Procedures YouTube Video
- Resource Road Driver Knowledge Unit – Free Online Learning Course to help you prepare for Resource Road driving
The frequency and magnitude of fall and winter storms characterized by heavy rainfall and high winds seem to be increasing. A recent BC Hydro survey finds that 3 in 5 British Columbians say the worst fall/winter storm they have ever experienced has been within the past 5 years. 
BC Hydro data shows that severe weather events in the last 3 to 5 years have led to some of the most damaging storms in BC Hydro’s history. BC’s forest health aerial surveys show that the area of windthrown timber in 2021 (12,600+ ha) was 3 times the average over the last decade. Wind events pose significant risks to people working on and traveling to and from woodlots and community forests. This bulletin provides licensees, managers and workers with guidance and resources they can use to plan and conduct operations that minimize risk of injury to workers during those events.
Fire crews are facing a challenging day as a wildfire encroaches on the town of Swan Hills in northern Alberta. An evacuation order was issued shortly after 6 p.m. Monday as the flames of the Edith Lake wildfire drew closer to the town of more than 1,300 people. A wildfire detected Sunday is now burning out of control seven kilometres from the edge of town, which is nestled in the boreal forest about 220 kilometres northwest of Edmonton. The blaze, fanned by powerful and unpredictable winds, has burned close to 2,300 hectares since it was first spotted. A provincial fire weather forecast is predicting gusty and shifting winds and rising temperatures on Tuesday and the national fire danger is listed as extreme across much of the province. As of noon Tuesday, there were seven out-of-control wildfires in Alberta.
Ravi Kahlon
BC Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon touched on a wide range of development and housing issues during an address to the Urban Development Institute, including infrastructure funding, planning standardization and housing targets. Kahlon said that a dialogue is needed around infrastructure funding to address BC’s challenges around housing supply and affordability. …Kahlon also took time to address the Housing Supply Act, which has stirred controversy due to province’s ability to set housing targets that municipalities must meet based on their population and growth projections. …Kahlon’s UDI appearance comes as B.C. municipalities are required to update their official community plans and zoning bylaws by year’s end to include 20 years of housing needs. The OCPs will require updates every five years. The City of Vancouver will have its first ever city-wide official development plan by June 2026.
Powell River mayor proposes upping foresty’s allowable cut
Ron Woznow
City of Powell River Council voted to defer a Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) resolution proposed by mayor Ron Woznow until more research can be done. At the May 22 council meeting, Woznow read his resolution that recommended UBCM call upon the ministry of forests to take immediate steps to secure at least 45 million cubic metres of economically viable fibre for the 2025 calendar year, and that the ministry continue to increase access to economically viable fibre by five million cubic metres each year until achieving the annual allowable cut totals set by the chief forester. Woznow said the economic benefits of forestry in British Columbia are well known. …Councillor Cindy Elliott said on April 24, she went to Western Forest Products’ public advisory group meeting and lots of good information came out. She said she believes Woznow was trying to address the current undercut in the province.
Atlas Engineered Products Reports First Quarter 2025 Financial and Operating Results, Including YoY Revenue Increase of 21%
Nanaimo, BC — Atlas Engineered Products is pleased to announce its financial and operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2025. All amounts are presented in Canadian dollars.
- Revenue of $11M, representing an increase of 21% year-over-year
- Wall Panel revenue increased by 42% year-over-year
- Engineered Wood Products revenue increased by 30% year-over-year
- Adjusted EBITDA of $586,666, representing an increase of 137% year-over-year
Hadi Abassi, President and CEO of AEP, commented: “Despite the housing start statistics and convoluted political and economic climates, the Company delivered a 21% increase in revenue over last year and worked diligently to drive organic growth in wall panels and engineered wood products, in addition to increasing production on roof trusses. I am encouraged by the start of 2025 to continue our organic growth initiatives across Canada and strategic acquisitions that will further strengthen our geographical footprint.”
Better Protecting Communities and Forests: Wildfire Risk Reduction Project Completed Near Merritt
Merritt, B.C. – The Lower Nicola Indian Band Development Corporation (LNIBDC) has completed wildfire risk reduction treatments in the Steffens Estates subdivision, north of the Lower Nicola Indian Band’s Mameet Indian Reserve #1, approximately 17 kilometres north of the city of Merritt. The project, which combined harvesting and post-harvest fuel reduction treatments, was conducted by crews from Shulus Forest Enterprises LP, the forestry division of the LNIBDC, with assistance from Forsite Consultants Ltd. and funding support from the Forest Enhancement Society of BC. The work will help reduce wildfire risk to communities, enhance forest resilience, and maintain critical wildlife features while generating significant economic and employment opportunities for the LNIBDC. …The LNIBDC contracted Forsite to assist in creating the fuel management prescription, which helped guide and monitor the crew’s activities as treatments were implemented, ensuring all required wildfire risk reduction outcomes were achieved.
Garry Merkel
Shannon Janzen
Members of the newly formed Provincial Forest Advisory Council, co-chaired by an East Kootenay resident, are tasked with providing recommendations to government on advancing forest stewardship, while supporting communities and workers that rely on forests. Under the Cooperation and Responsible Government Accord 2025, the B.C. government and BC Green caucus have established the Provincial Forest Advisory Council. The council will provide recommendations to government to ensure there are clear and measurable outcomes that support a healthy forests, healthy ecosystems and a healthy forestry sector. The council will consult with industry partners, such as the Provincial Forestry Forum and ecological, environmental and biodiversity experts, to engage the public for feedback and honour commitments to work in partnership with First Nations. This community-driven approach will ensure the review is inclusive and focused on land-base certainty and sustainability.
Upload Photos Win $$! Alberta Forest Products Association Raffle Contest
To celebrate the dedication of our industry and our collective love for Alberta forests, the Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA), will be hosting a raffle The prize? Be entered into a draw for a chance to win a $200 Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) or Marks Work Warehouse gift card (choice between the two) and a Love AB Forests merch item of your choosing. The Alberta forest Media Catalogue is an extensive digital archive that houses a wide range of media related to Alberta’s forests and forestry sector. This includes photos, videos, audio files, documents, and more. The catalogue is designed to be a central repository where members can easily upload, tag, share, and search for forestry-related media.
Although personal protective equipment (PPE) shouldn’t be solely relied upon to protect workers from injuries, it is an important part of safety programs and should be chosen to make sure it offers the best protection available. 
The following focuses on considerations for supervisors and owners when developing a PPE program. Components of a good PPE program include: Regulation Check; Planning; Appropriate Selection; Fitting; Education and Training; Supervisor and Management Support; Inspection and Maintenance; and Auditing the Program. Get all the details by clicking the Read More!
Musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs) remain one of the most common and costly types of workplace injuries in BC’s forestry sector. These injuries, which affect muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints, often result from repetitive motion, overexertion, awkward postures or prolonged physical strain. Given the physically demanding nature of forestry work, addressing MSI risks is essential to protecting worker health and maintaining productivity. By implementing ergonomic practices, promoting proper body mechanics and fostering a culture of early reporting and prevention, employers and workers can work together to significantly reduce the occurrence and impact of MSIs across the industry.
Although musculoskeletal injuries can affect workers across all areas of forestry, certain roles are particularly vulnerable due to the physical demands and repetitive nature of their tasks.
Silviculture Workers, such as tree planters and brushers, often perform repetitive motions for extended periods in challenging terrain. Tasks like bending, lifting, and carrying heavy loads—combined with awkward postures and limited rest—make them especially prone to strains and overuse injuries in the back, shoulders, and knees.
Log Truck Drivers face a different set of risks. They are particularly at risk due to the combination of static postures, repetitive movements and the physical demands of securing loads and performing maintenance tasks in often unpredictable outdoor conditions. These factors can lead to cumulative strain on the musculoskeletal system, especially in the lower back, shoulders, and knees.
Sawmill Workers are frequently exposed to repetitive tasks, forceful exertions and static postures, particularly in roles involving material handling or machine operation. Without proper ergonomics and task rotation, these workers are at high risk for injuries to the hands, wrists, shoulders and lower back.
Each of these roles presents unique challenges, but with targeted prevention strategies and the use of resources like those provided by the BC Forest Safety Council, employers can take meaningful steps to reduce MSI risks and protect their workforce.
MSI Resources:
MSI Backgrounder – provides foundational knowledge on how MSIs occur and outlines strategies for prevention, including ergonomic assessments and task modifications.
Tree Planting Resource Package offers tailored guidance on safe lifting techniques, stretching routines, and injury prevention tips specific to the demands of the job.
Preventing MSIs in Log Truck Drivers – a series of videos and posters have been developed by the Log Truck Technical Advisory Committee (LTTAC) and BCFSC to help keep drivers free from musculoskeletal injuries.
BCFSC Manufacturing Safety Crew Talk – this crew talk highlights how to recognize the early signs of an MSI and ways to prevent them.
WorkSafeBC: Preventing Musculoskeletal Injury (MSI) – best practices for identifying MSI risks and implementing controls to keep workers safe.
WorkSafeBC: Understanding the Risks of Musculoskeletal Injury (MSI) – an educational guide to help workers and employers recognize the signs and symptoms of MSI and understand the potential health effects of these injuries.
Managing risks in steep slope harvesting: safety in challenging terrain
Steep slope harvesting (SSH) enables forestry operations on challenging and often hazardous terrain, allowing access to valuable timber resources. But with this access comes increased risk. From equipment instability to terrain hazards, safe operations on steep ground require a clear understanding of the work environment and strong mitigation strategies.
Approaches to steep slope harvesting
Steep slope harvesting can be approached in several ways, each with its own set of challenges and safety considerations.
- The first approach uses conventional equipment, guided by a risk assessment and safe work procedures developed by a qualified person. The BC Forest Safety Council’s Steep Slope Resource Package helps employers and workers create site-specific procedures.
- The second approach involves specialized equipment, such as tethered or winch-assist machines, designed for steep terrain and capable of operating on slopes up to 100% grade with cable support for stability.
- The third method, cable yarding or high-lead logging, moves logs across slopes over 100%, minimizing the need for ground-based equipment on unstable terrain. However, cable yarding introduces its own high-risk factors and must be part of the safety plan.
- Other specialized approaches, such as heli-logging, are also used in terrain too steep or sensitive for ground-based equipment.
Key hazards
Terrain instability
Conditions can shift rapidly on steep slopes. Operators must be able to recognize changing hazards and respond appropriately. Assessing slope steepness, ground stability, and preparing for emergencies is essential.
Inadequate planning
Planning should include detailed mapping of terrain features such as slope gradients, soil types, and unstable areas caused by moisture, rock outcrops, or past slides. Clearly marked no-go zones are critical where equipment use would be too dangerous.
Strengthening risk assessments
A qualified person—or team—must conduct a thorough assessment of both terrain and equipment limits. This forms the basis for site-specific safe work procedures to maintain machine stability and protect worker safety.
Natural obstacles
Cliffs, gullies, and loose debris pose serious risks. Workers and supervisors should walk the site before operations begin to spot hazards and confirm that equipment anchoring will be secure.
Machinery hazards
Equipment on steep slopes is vulnerable to rollovers and traction loss, especially if support cables are damaged by sharp objects like rocks, stumps, or machinery components such as a buncher head.
Machinery must always be suited to the terrain,” says Tom Pawlowski, manager of Prevention Programs and Services at WorkSafeBC. “For example, rubber-tired machines are typically limited to slopes of 35%, so it’s critical to match the right equipment to the right slope.
Stay clear, stay safe: Cable yarding on slopes
Cable yarding—using a system of cables and blocks to move logs from the cutting site to the landing—is a common and efficient technique in steep slope harvesting. But it comes with serious safety risks, especially when workers are near moving logs, tensioned lines, or heavy equipment.
Proper planning and setup of cable systems are crucial for worker safety. Even small oversights, like improperly anchored guylines or missed maintenance, can lead to dangerous, uncontrolled movements.
Key practices for mitigating risks
Hazard assessment and equipment suitability
Start with a thorough evaluation of the terrain—consider slope steepness, ground stability, and the potential for equipment failure. This will form the basis of your site harvesting and safety plan. Only use machinery rated for the conditions. Cable yarding operators should confirm all rigging, anchors, and pulleys are suited to the slope and securely installed.
Effective setup and anchoring
Proper anchoring and setup of machinery and cable systems are critical. All equipment must be securely anchored, and deflection systems adjusted to maintain safe angles. Make sure to regularly inspect and adjust equipment based on terrain changes.
Staying in the clear
A core safety principle in steep slope harvesting is maintaining safe distance. Workers must stay at least 1.5 tree lengths away from moving logs or equipment. If this can’t be maintained, work must stop until the plan is adjusted and risks are properly managed. Ongoing awareness and clear communication are essential to staying out of harm’s way.
Communication and emergency response
Effective communication is key. Daily tailgate meetings should review hazards and safety protocols, while supervisors must monitor conditions and ensure workers are familiar with emergency procedures.
WorkSafeBC requires that emergency procedures be practiced whenever there is a significant change in location or harvesting process.
Maintaining equipment
Preventative maintenance plays a major role in safety. Conduct regular checks, follow lockout procedures, and inspect for wear or damage—especially in equipment used on steep terrain.
Personal safety measures
Workers should wear seatbelts, use proper footwear, and secure loose items inside cabs to minimize risks like slips, trips, and uncontrolled movement in the event of equipment failure.
Creating a safety culture: The role of supervisors
While equipment, planning, and procedures are essential, the foundation of a safe worksite is a shared commitment to health and safety, starting from the top.
“The responsibility of a supervisor extends beyond operations,” says Pawlowski. “They play a key role in fostering a mindset that prioritizes worker well-being.”
The way supervisors approach safety directly influences the attitudes and behaviours of the crew. Supervisors must be present, well-trained, and action-oriented, creating an environment where workers understand their responsibilities and feel supported in speaking up. Supervisors must model open communication, respond quickly to health and safety issues, and ensure workers are equipped to recognize and manage hazards throughout the phases of a project.
Safe outcomes depend on daily actions
Steep slope harvesting presents significant risks, but with careful planning, proper equipment, and a culture of safety, these risks can be managed.
“Safety is not a one-time effort but an ongoing process that requires daily attention,” says Pawlowski. “By consistently prioritizing hazard assessment, equipment suitability, proper setup, and staying in the clear, employers and workers can minimize risks and help ensure that steep slope harvesting remains a safe and effective method of timber harvesting.”
For more information consult resources from the BC Forest Safety Council and WorkSafeBC.
BC pulp mill fined for repeated pollution breaches
Domtar has been penalized $17,200 for nearly two dozen failures to control the release of emissions from its Skookumchuck, BC, mill. The kraft pulp mill was found to have violated pollution levels 23 times over eight months starting in 2021, according to a decision from director of the Environmental Management Act Bryan Vroom. On at least six occasions, the decision found Domtar failed to keep smoke emissions from a wood-waste-fired power boiler below the 40 per cent opacity required under its 2013 permit. …The company disputed the findings, arguing that a nearby air quality impact assessment showed the impacts to human health were “not significant” and that the ministry failed to show the violations would impact workers. In his decision, Environmental Management Act Bryan Vroom responded by reducing the severity of the failures to a level of “low to none.” …Domtar acknowledged the penalties in an email, and said it is working with B.C.’s environment ministry in response.
Representatives from across many sectors of the Forestry Industry gathered in Quesnel for the fourth Future of Forestry Think Tank (FFTT). The FFTT was held at Quesnel’s CNC campus on May 21, and 22. Erin Robinson, the Forest Initiatives Manager for the City of Quesnel, says this “grassroots-led, initiative first” conference initially started by gathering different orders of government together to discuss ways to solve issues across Forestry, and find new innovations. “We wanted to figure out what Quesnel can keep doing well, which is forestry,” says Robinson. “Have it start at the grassroots level and then roll changes up to the region, then up to the province.” Some projects that started as learning and brainstorming opportunities from the FFTT have started to become provincial initiatives, like the Forest Landscape Plan Process. Quesnel has one of four Landscape Pilot Projects in the province to reshape sustainable frameworks for forestry.
The southernmost herd of endangered woodland caribou in Manitoba might not be able to recover from wildfire-caused habitat and population losses, experts say. Fire burn patterns and maps suggest a fire that has ravaged more than 100,000 hectares in and west of Nopiming Provincial Park in eastern Manitoba has destroyed a substantial part of the habitat of the Owl-Flintstone caribou herd. Boreal woodland caribou are classified as threatened under the Manitoba Endangered Species Act. There are an estimated 1,500 to 3,000 in the province. Daniel Dupont, a professor at St. Boniface University, is worried that last week’s inferno will weaken the woodland caribou population in several ways. “The caribou have just lost the habitat where their females give birth from mid-May to June,” Dupont said. …The Nopiming area is home to between 40 and 60 woodland caribou, he said.