Siya Forestry Hosts Successful Forestry 101 Workshop for Osoyoos Indian Band Members

Siya Forestry recently hosted a Forestry 101 Workshop for OIB Band Members from April 7-11, 2025, designed to introduce members of the Osoyoos Indian Band (OIB) to fundamental forestry concepts and field skills. This five-day program, led by Wayne Horvath, a seasoned instructor and Operations Manager of Infinity Pacific Stewardship Group, created a space where participants could build practical knowledge while deepening their understanding of the forested landscapes they call home.

The workshop served as a starting point for those interested in exploring employment opportunities within their community’s forestry sector. Through a blend of classroom and field-based learning, participants gained introductory skills in tree and plant identification, ecological principles, forest health (including insects and disease), and measurement techniques essential for forestry work.

Horvath brought decades of experience to the workshop, having retired after 27 years of teaching at BCIT, where he specialized in Forest Inventory, Air Photo Interpretation, and Forest Health. In recent years, he has continued supporting forestry education and operations, particularly with First Nations communities. Throughout the week, his approach focused on inclusivity and respect for Indigenous knowledge. “My goal was to embrace what participants already know about the forests they live in and create a space where they could share that knowledge comfortably,” said Horvath.

He also acknowledged the contributions of Andrew Brear, GIS expert at Siya Forestry, for preparing detailed field maps and georeferenced orthophotos that supported the training sessions.

On the third day of the workshop, the group visited the Interfor sawmill in Grand Forks and learned about sawmilling and log scaling. “The foresters at Interfor were excellent hosts as they answered questions, provided outstanding insights, and even bought the OIB team lunch,” said Dan Macmaster, OIB Forestry Manager, “Thanks to Ryan Weltz and his team for being amazing hosts, and OIB is looking forward to growing the partnership moving forward.”

Luke Robertson, Partner and Operations Manager, Infinity Pacific Stewardship Group, helped coordinate the workshop and highlighted its importance in connecting people to the realities of forestry work. “Many people aren’t aware of what we actually do day-to-day. This workshop gave OIB members the opportunity to explore those roles in a low-pressure environment and decide whether a career in forestry is a good fit for them,” Robertson shared.

He also emphasized the broader significance of building First Nations capacity in forestry. “OIB members bring valuable perspectives that prioritize long-term forest health and cultural use. The more involved they are from the outset of development; the more influence they can have on how land is managed.”

As the workshop concluded, participants left not only with new technical skills but also with a renewed sense of connection to the land and its future. Siya Forestry hopes to continue offering similar opportunities to support community involvement in shaping the direction of forestry in the region.