In this episode, we’re joined by Derek Nighbor, President and CEO of the Forest Products Association of Canada, who offers an inside look at the tough challenges and bold opportunities shaping Canada’s forestry sector today.Derek takes us through the complexities of trade tensions with the United States, revealing how tariffs, shifting policies, and a changing global landscape have impacted thousands of jobs and entire communities across Canada. He shares the importance of unified advocacy, government partnerships, and building strong, solution-focused relationships with environmental groups to drive both industry and environmental progress.Throughout our conversation, we explore how Canadian forestry is finding new life through innovation, like biomass energy and modular mass timber, and seizing opportunities in export markets abroad. Derek provides thoughtful insights on why collaboration, openness to new ideas, and resilience are key to moving the sector from managing decline to renewed growth.We also examine the vital role of sustainability, community support, and hope for a future where Canada’s forests continue to fuel prosperity for generations to come, making this episode essential listening for anyone invested in the future of forestry.To learn more about the forestry sector or Forest Nova Scotia, visit forestns.ca.
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Mentorship Shapes Forestry
In this episode, we’re joined by Spencer Coulstring of Freeman Lumber, whose journey from science communications to passionate forestry advocate highlights the evolving face of Nova Scotia’s forest sector.Spencer shares her unique pathway into forestry, from species conservation in British Columbia to building a career and community back home in Nova Scotia. Throughout the conversation, we dive into the power of mentorship and inclusion, exploring how groups like Women in Woods are breaking barriers, creating safe spaces, and redefining what it means to succeed in a traditionally male-dominated field.Together, we tackle public perception and the role of education in shaping the next generation’s view of forestry. Spencer provides insights on inspiring youth, the changing demands of the sector, and the importance of supporting one another, especially women, as the industry seeks greater diversity and resilience.We also uncover the challenges and hopes for a more sustainable, welcoming forestry sector, making this episode a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of the industry.To learn more about the forestry sector or Forest Nova Scotia, visit forestns.ca.
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Weekly News Update: October 24
This week on Forestry Weekly News: -Government of Nova Scotia cabinet shuffle and new minister.- Shannon Park as a part of 13 Billion Build Canada Homes project.- Forest Project Association of Canada national policy convention in Ottawa. - Our trees campaign HRM tree planting.- Industry Workforce Training Needs study by the Forestry Sector Council.To learn more about the forestry sector or Forest Nova Scotia, then visit our forestns.ca.
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How do we deal with the Softwood Lumber Tariff?
In this episode, we’re joined by George Ernst, CFO and controller at Freeman Lumber, one of Nova Scotia’s oldest and most respected lumber producers. George, a fourth-generation forester, shares both professional expertise and personal stories from his family’s longstanding involvement in the industry.Together, we dive into the dramatic impact of the new 10% tariffs on Canadian softwood lumber, examining how these measures ripple beyond headlines to affect local sawmills, communities, and family-run businesses throughout Nova Scotia. George breaks down the financial realities facing mills today, explains the unique position of Nova Scotia in the North American softwood trade, and lays out why federal support isn’t easily accessible for the province’s operators.We also tackle the high cost of crown land, the evolving demands of forestry management, and the urgent need for efficiency in a tough export environment. George issues a call for intentional action from both industry and government on the concrete solutions needed to keep Nova Scotia’s forestry sector competitive and sustainable into the future.To learn more about the forestry sector or Forest Nova Scotia, visit forestns.ca.
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Weekly News Update: October 17
This week on Forestry Weekly News:- Forest sector faces 45% tariffs, urgent action required by government and the forest sector. - The wood ban restriction lifted in Annapolis valley as of October 15th. - US Tariffs' impact on the Christmas tree industry.- Wrapping up our trees, Come see us at the Wolfville Farmer's Market.-The Forest Products Association of Canada 2025 Policy Conference in Ottawa next week, stay tuned for more details. To learn more about the forestry sector or Forest Nova Scotia, then visit our forestns.ca.
Forestry Uncut gives voice to the people, issues, and aspirations shaping forestry today, offering the public a clearer view of the industry while providing space for forestry professionals to share their stories in their own words.
A podcast dedicated to uncovering the raw truths and realities of the forestry sector, hosted by Forest Nova Scotia's Executive Director Todd Burgess.
Canada - english