Forestry Uncut

By: Forest Nova Scotia
  • Summary

  • Forestry has been a part of Nova Scotia since….before it was officially Nova Scotia. In Forestry Uncut, we explore where we’ve come from and where we’re heading in the forestry industry.

    We talk to the backbone of forestry –the people– and discover that innovation is everywhere if we can enact good policy to support it. We examine biofuel, mass timber, and more.

    The human element is at the forefront, from the connection to the forest that is an innate part of being human, to the emotional impact of wildfires and a look at family-run forestry businesses.

    We also discuss sustainability, misconceptions and the need for more communication and collaboration within the forestry industry itself.

    And we review Finnish forestry practices–what we can learn from value chains, sustainable forestry practices and opportunities for collaboration.

    As the old saying goes, we often don’t see the forest for the trees. Or in a modern sense the forest for the toilet paper, cardboard boxes and houses that surround us. Forestry is an industry that is woven into the fabric of our daily lives, but we don’t often see or acknowledge it. In Forestry Uncut, we aim to bring foresters and the industry to centre stage.

    For more information and resources, visit the Forest Nova Scotia website at https://www.forestns.ca/

    Forestry Uncut is produced by Story Studio Network https://storystudionetwork.com/
    Forest Nova Scotia
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Episodes
  • A lot has happened....
    Dec 11 2024
    In this episode, host Erin Trafford talks with FNS Interim Executive Director Todd Burgess about the positive changes and opportunities emerging within Nova Scotia’s forestry sector. Todd emphasises new projects, like sustainable bioenergy and aviation fuel initiatives, that are creating value from low-quality wood. These examples showcase how forestry can contribute to sustainable development and climate change mitigation. He reflects on the sector's revitalization and the increasing membership. Erin and Todd discuss the importance of engaging both rural and urban communities to strengthen support and understanding of forestry's impact.

    Key Takeaways:
    • Nova Scotia’s forestry sector is experiencing growth and innovation.
    • New initiatives include bioenergy plants, sustainable aviation fuel projects, and district heating systems.
    • Forest Nova Scotia's membership is rising as more woodlot owners recognize opportunities.
    • Engaging urban communities is crucial for expanding forestry’s reach and impact.
    • The forestry sector aims to shift towards self-sustainability without relying on government support.
    Forest Nova Scotia is the largest forestry organization in the province. Members include woodlot owners, sawmills, contractors and pulp and paper companies.

    Find out more about us and what we do at www.forestns.ca.
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/forestnovascotia/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/forest-nova-scotia/?originalSubdomain=ca

    Forestry Uncut is produced by Story Studio Network. www.storystudionetwork.com/

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    22 mins
  • Nordic Forest Innovations and Canada's Potential
    Dec 11 2024
    In this episode, we explore the pull of Nordic culture and its advanced forestry technologies. The Finns are the rockstars of forestry, and are shaping the future of sustainable forestry. Erin discusses the differences and potential collaborations between Canada and Nordic countries, emphasizing the importance of innovation, market development, and sustainable practices in the forestry industry.

    *Note to listener: Since the recording of this episode Stephen Moore is no longer the Executive Director of Forest Nova Scotia.

    Key Takeaways:
    Nordic Influence and Innovations:
      • Nordic countries, like Finland, lead in sustainable forestry practices and innovative technologies such as unmanned airships and LiDAR, which provide detailed forest data.
      • Jiri Jormakka from Finland highlights the advanced data collection and processing capabilities of airships, which can classify forest species and conditions down to a square inch.
    Canada's Forestry Market:
    • Canada has vast forests but lacks the market development and cohesive value chains seen in Nordic countries.
    • Jamie Stephen of Torchlight Bioresources points out that Canada's forestry industry can learn from Nordic countries' focus on climate leadership and energy security.

    Collaboration and Learning:
    • Finnish delegates emphasize the importance of trust and cooperation across the entire forestry value chain, a key aspect Canada could adopt.
    • There are opportunities for collaboration, such as Nova Scotia’s new trade partnership with Finland, to enhance local forestry practices and market growth.
    Innovative Solutions and Challenges:
    • Stephen Moore advocates for leveraging local resources and creating community-owned infrastructure to benefit the economy and environment.
    • Jamie Stephen discusses innovative solutions like offshore CO2 storage and the integration of wind and bioenergy, drawing parallels to successful Nordic models.

    Guests:

    • Jaime Stephen, PhD: Managing Director, TorchLight Bioresources www.torchlightbioresources.com
    • Jiri Jormakka: COO Kelluu https://kelluu.com/


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    Forest Nova Scotia is the largest forestry organization in the province. Members include woodlot owners, sawmills, contractors and pulp and paper companies. Find out more about us and what we do at www.forestns.ca.
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/forestnovascotia/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/forest-nova-scotia/?originalSubdomain=ca

    Forestry Uncut is produced by Story Studio Network. www.storystudionetwork.com/


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    21 mins
  • Exploring Ledwidge Lumber - A Deep Dive into Family-Run Forestry
    Nov 27 2024
    In this episode, we take a closer look at Ledwidge Lumber in Enfield, Nova Scotia. The family-run sawmill challenges common assumptions about forestry, showcasing a blend of tradition and innovation.

    *Note to listener: Since the recording of this episode Stephen Moore is no longer the Executive Director of Forest Nova Scotia.

    Key Takeaways:
    1. Family Heritage and Community Impact: Ledwidge Lumber, started by Cassie Turple’s grandfather, has grown into a significant local employer. The mill's walls are adorned with family photos and community contribution certificates, highlighting its deep-rooted connection to Enfield.
    2. Resilience and Renewal: The mill has faced and overcome two devastating fires, embodying the forestry principles of rebuilding and renewal. The company now plans to expand with a biofuel plant, creating new jobs and tapping into renewable energy sources.
    3. Technological Integration: The mill employs advanced technology, including AI and high-tech software, to maximize efficiency and wood recovery. This modernization has shifted jobs from manual sorting to specialized, higher-paying positions.
    4. Market Challenges and Solutions: Despite most of their product being exported to the U.S. due to limited local demand, Ledwidge Lumber is pioneering the production of mass timber. This move aims to create new markets within Nova Scotia, reducing reliance on distant suppliers.
    5. Future Prospects: The episode ends with a sense of optimism about the future of forestry in Nova Scotia. The planned biofuel plant and mass timber production are seen as steps toward a more sustainable and self-sufficient forestry industry.
    Guest: Cassie Turple: Communications/HR Manager Ledwidge Lumber https://www.ledwidgelumber.com/

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    Forest Nova Scotia is the largest forestry organization in the province. Members include woodlot owners, sawmills, contractors and pulp and paper companies. Find out more about us and what we do at www.forestns.ca.
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/forestnovascotia/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/forest-nova-scotia/?originalSubdomain=ca

    Forestry Uncut is produced by Story Studio Network. www.storystudionetwork.com/


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    24 mins

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