2025 was a year of growth, innovation, and collaboration under the High Performance Logging (HPL) Program. Committed to providing continuous solutions for operational and business performance improvement, the HPL Program remains dedicated to strengthening the forestry industry through training, knowledge sharing, and collaboration. By equipping forestry professionals with advanced skills and expertise, CWF continues to ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for the sector.
British Columbia: Pioneering Forestry Equipment Operator Training
A new initiative in 2025 was the development of a proposal and identifying potential for the Innovative Forest Harvesting Operator Training Pilot in British Columbia. Designed to address the growing demand for skilled cut-to-length (CTL) equipment operators, the program focused on advanced machine operator training (AMOT) to support partial harvesting strategies and wildfire risk mitigation.
Through direct engagement with contractors, preliminary in-field training, on-the-job coaching, and a Contractors’ Roundtable in Quesnel, BC, the program successfully validated alignment with industry needs. HPL partners also participated in the May 2025 Future of Forestry Think Tank event alongside the University of British Columbia and the City of Quesnel, presenting the proposed training program and gathering valuable stakeholder feedback.
Nova Scotia: Advancing Ecological Forestry Training
In Nova Scotia, the HPL Program continued to deliver ecological forestry training for contractors and employees, combining workshops, field instruction, and on-the-job coaching. Two SGEM-based workshops were held in New Germany and Port Hawkesbury, with 26 and 28 participants respectively. These sessions provided practical guidance for implementing ecological harvest prescriptions and strengthened contractors’ capacity to adopt sustainable practices.
High-Production Forestry Workshops
HPL also expanded its focus on High-Production Forestry (HPF) through presentations and field tours highlighting equipment, technology, and best practices. Sessions explored effective silviculture planning, tree improvement, site preparation, and stand tending strategies. The two-day event was presented in conjunction with the Canadian Woodlands Forum Fall Meeting, “Seedling to Success: Sustaining Timber Production in the HPF Management Zone of the Triad Model,” held October 8-9 in Truro, NS, attracting 135 participants from across the Atlantic region. Read more
Silviculture Workforce Recruitment and Training
A significant 2025 initiative supported workforce development in silviculture. HPL helped D. Bedford Forestry Services Inc. recruit and train new workers from rural high schools, providing wage subsidies, equipment, and PPE to ensure a smooth onboarding process. This effort addressed barriers to entry for new workers and supported long-term workforce sustainability in the sector.
Looking Ahead
The High Performance Logging Program continues to innovate, train, and collaborate to elevate forestry practices across Canada. As we move into 2026, the program remains committed to equipping forestry professionals with the tools, knowledge, and support needed to succeed in an evolving industry.