The Canadian Woodlands Forum (CWF) proudly presents the Outstanding Forestry Contractor of the Year Award to recognize the critical role contractors play in advancing safe, efficient, and sustainable forest operations. This prestigious award highlights exemplary leadership, innovation, and dedication in the field—qualities that strengthen the entire forestry sector across Eastern Canada.”
In the realm of forestry excellence, the Outstanding Forestry Contractor of the Year Award stands tall as a beacon of recognition for hardworking individuals. We honor those whose dedication and innovative practices in safety, forest management, timber harvesting, and business management contribute to sustainable forest resource management.
Every year, the Canadian Woodlands Forum (CWF) invites nominations for this distinguished award, seeking individuals who exemplify ingenuity and process improvement in the forestry sector. If you know exceptional forestry contractors shaping the future of sustainable forest management, we invite you to nominate them for this esteemed accolade.
Recipients of this award receive more than just acknowledgment; they receive:
Above all, these winners are celebrated for their continuous improvements in business practices, inspiring and sharing their wisdom with fellow contractors.
Join us in celebrating these extraordinary individuals and their remarkable contributions to sustainable forest resource management. Let’s honor the best in the forestry industry, who are shaping a brighter and more sustainable future for us all.
Caron of Saint-Jacques, New Brunswick
Nominated by: Acadian Timber
A Lifetime Rooted in Forestry
Forestry runs deep in Jimmy Caron’s veins. Growing up in a contractor family in Northern New Brunswick, his journey began early—doing chainsaw maintenance “as a kid.” That early exposure grew into a lifelong commitment to the woods. In 2000, he started as a machine operator, and just two years later, launched his own slashing operation.
Over the years, Jimmy has expanded his expertise across multiple facets of harvesting, from first thinnings to hardwood operations. In 2018, he returned to large wheeled harvesters, bringing with him decades of hands-on knowledge and leadership. Since 2020, he’s been a valued contractor with Acadian Timber, operating primarily in the Plaster Rock region.
A Strong and Safe Operation
Enterprise JBC Inc. currently runs two Ponsse Scorpion harvesters (a 2018 and a 2023 model), alongside a 2024 Ponsse Buffalo King 15-tonne forwarder, all operating on a two-shift schedule. The operation harvests on both crown and freehold lands, with a 90% focus on clearcut and 10% commercial thinning.
Jimmy’s team is built for efficiency and care. Half the crew commutes daily from Edmundston—travel time paid—while the rest are based locally. Trucks are replaced every three years, ensuring safety and reliability.
Safety is Jimmy’s top priority. With zero recordable safety incidents, he supplies all safety gear and winter clothing to his crew. He’s on site daily, managing operations, supporting maintenance, and operating the older Scorpion during the day shift. Shift changes are a well-coordinated effort, with all hands contributing to critical machine maintenance.
Innovation, Leadership, and Legacy
Jimmy’s commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of his business. His well-stocked on-site parts supply, along with a dedicated maintenance garage in St. Anne de Madawaska (purchased in 2022), ensures downtime is minimized. A former contractor, the previous garage owner, now supports the operation by managing bar and chain maintenance.
Training is conducted in-house, with Jimmy sharing his knowledge and coaching new operators. He’s already planning for the future—with a succession plan in the works—and is actively exploring technology and productivity tools to boost performance and profitability.
What sets Jimmy apart isn’t just his skill or work ethic—it’s his passion. When asked about his work, he simply said, “I love my job.” That love shines through in everything he does and sets a powerful example for others in the industry.
Congratulations!
The Canadian Woodlands Forum is proud to honour Enterprise JBC Inc. and Jimmy Caron with the 2024 Outstanding Forestry Contractor of the Year Award. His dedication to quality, safety, innovation, and people embodies the spirit of forestry excellence in Canada.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Jimmy and his team, and thank Acadian Timber for the nomination.
The Canadian Woodlands Forum, (CWF), is a not-for-profit membership-based organization recognized for its commitment to effective, quality woodlands operations in support of sustainable forest management.
