Forestry Talks – Details, episodes & analysis

In this episode of Forestry Talks, host Aspen Dudzic sits down with Dr. Uldis Silins, Professor of Forest Hydrology at the University of Alberta, for a fascinating conversation about one of the most important and often underappreciated parts of forest management: water.

Dr. Silins shares how Alberta’s forests play a critical role in storing, filtering, and delivering water across the province, and why disturbances like wildfire, harvesting, and recreation can all influence watershed health in very different ways. From mountain headwaters to downstream communities, this episode explores how complex water systems really are and why long-term research matters.

Aspen and Dr. Silins also dig into the lasting effects of wildfire on streams, sediment and aquatic ecosystems, the role of best management practices in forestry, and how Alberta’s geology creates very different watershed responses than other regions like Colorado. It’s a thoughtful, science-driven look at how forests, fire, and water are deeply connected in Alberta.

The Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA) is a non-profit association that has been the voice of the sustainable forest industry in Alberta since 1942. Alberta's forest industry supports over 31,500 jobs and generates $5.8 billion in provincial GDP.

 Join us as we connect with industry leaders and discuss topics like sustainability, innovation, partnerships,  nature-based climate solutions, and more. Don't forget to follow us on social media @albertaforests and @loveabforests to join the conversation.

In this special Forestry Talks episode, recorded on-site at AFPA’s 83rd AGM in Jasper, host Aspen Dudzic welcomes back Alberta’s Minister of Forestry and Parks, the Honourable Todd Loewen. Together, they get into a wide-ranging conversation covering wildfire mitigation, trade advocacy with the U.S. and Asia, the economic impact of tariffs and duties, and Alberta’s growing role in sustainable forestry leadership.

From helicopter tours with Premier Danielle Smith to international trade missions in Japan and South Korea, Minister Loewen offers personal insights, policy updates, and his hopes for the future of forestry in Alberta. 

It's a candid, thoughtful, and passionate look at how the province is protecting communities, supporting rural jobs, and telling Alberta’s story to the world.

The Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA) is a non-profit association that has been the voice of the sustainable forest industry in Alberta since 1942. Alberta's forest industry supports over 31,500 jobs and generates $5.8 billion in provincial GDP.

 Join us as we connect with industry leaders and discuss topics like sustainability, innovation, partnerships,  nature-based climate solutions, and more. Don't forget to follow us on social media @albertaforests and @loveabforests to join the conversation.

In this episode of Forestry Talks, host Aspen Dudzic sits down with John Desjarlais, Executive Director of the Indigenous Resource Network, to explore the vital role of Indigenous leadership in the forestry sector. They discuss economic reconciliation, the competitive advantage of Indigenous partnerships, and how shared values between Indigenous communities and industry are shaping a sustainable future. 

The Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA) is a non-profit association that has been the voice of the sustainable forest industry in Alberta since 1942. Alberta's forest industry supports over 31,500 jobs and generates $5.8 billion in provincial GDP.

 Join us as we connect with industry leaders and discuss topics like sustainability, innovation, partnerships,  nature-based climate solutions, and more. Don't forget to follow us on social media @albertaforests and @loveabforests to join the conversation.

In this episode of Forestry Talks, Aspen sits down with Kathy Abusow, President and CEO of the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI), for a look into the SFI’s extensive work supporting sustainable forestry, conservation, and environmental education across North America. Kathy shares insights into the importance of forest certification, the role of Indigenous knowledge in sustainable forestry, and how SFI’s standards address the pressing issues of climate resilience and fire management. 

From building mentorship networks for young people to educating future conservationists through Project Learning Tree, SFI’s initiatives are creating lasting impacts for forests and communities alike. 

Join us for a fascinating conversation on how sustainable forestry can be a powerful force for environmental and social good.

The Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA) is a non-profit association that has been the voice of the sustainable forest industry in Alberta since 1942. Alberta's forest industry supports over 31,500 jobs and generates $5.8 billion in provincial GDP.

 Join us as we connect with industry leaders and discuss topics like sustainability, innovation, partnerships,  nature-based climate solutions, and more. Don't forget to follow us on social media @albertaforests and @loveabforests to join the conversation.

Join us as we kick off the 2024 AGM series with a special return guest, Minister Todd Loewen, Alberta’s Minister of Forestry and Parks. In this episode, Minister Loewen expands on the lessons learned from Alberta’s unprecedented wildfire seasons and the steps being taken to protect Alberta’s forests, communities, and wildlife. 
From the advanced use of night vision helicopters and drones to the increased collaboration with local communities and industries, Minister Loewen discusses innovative changes in wildfire response. We also explore the importance of fuel management, forest age diversity, and how Alberta’s forestry policies adapt to environmental challenges. 
Whether you're interested in forestry, public safety, or sustainability, this episode offers a comprehensive view of Alberta’s forestry management from one of its key decision-makers.

The Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA) is a non-profit association that has been the voice of the sustainable forest industry in Alberta since 1942. Alberta's forest industry supports over 31,500 jobs and generates $5.8 billion in provincial GDP.

 Join us as we connect with industry leaders and discuss topics like sustainability, innovation, partnerships,  nature-based climate solutions, and more. Don't forget to follow us on social media @albertaforests and @loveabforests to join the conversation.

In the final episode of the Forest Capital of Canada celebration series, Aspen sits down with John Thurston and Gale Hayday, President and Vice President of the Northern Lights Forest Education Society, to explore the transformative power of forest education. They discuss how their programs are overcoming students' fears of the outdoors and introducing hands-on learning experiences in Alberta’s stunning Mackenzie region. John and Gale share stories about inspiring young minds, innovative education initiatives, and even a few heartwarming tales of learning in the great outdoors. Tune in to hear how their work is making a lasting impact. 

The Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA) is a non-profit association that has been the voice of the sustainable forest industry in Alberta since 1942. Alberta's forest industry supports over 31,500 jobs and generates $5.8 billion in provincial GDP.

 Join us as we connect with industry leaders and discuss topics like sustainability, innovation, partnerships,  nature-based climate solutions, and more. Don't forget to follow us on social media @albertaforests and @loveabforests to join the conversation.

In this episode of Forestry Talks, Aspen is joined by Reeve Josh Knelsen to discuss the rich history and resilience of the Mackenzie Region in Alberta, recently designated as the Forest Capital of Canada. Reeve Knelson shares stories of overcoming natural disasters like floods and wildfires, the unexpected relationship between agriculture and forestry, and what makes life in northern Alberta so unique. Discover how forestry remains an essential part of the local economy and community spirit, providing opportunities for recreation, work, and connection to nature. Join us for an inspiring look at life, work, and sustainability in the vast and vibrant Mackenzie Region.

The Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA) is a non-profit association that has been the voice of the sustainable forest industry in Alberta since 1942. Alberta's forest industry supports over 31,500 jobs and generates $5.8 billion in provincial GDP.

 Join us as we connect with industry leaders and discuss topics like sustainability, innovation, partnerships,  nature-based climate solutions, and more. Don't forget to follow us on social media @albertaforests and @loveabforests to join the conversation.

Join Aspen as she sits down with Terry Jessiman, Forest Area Manager for High Level, to discuss the critical role of wildfire management and timber operations in Alberta. Terry dives into the 2024 wildfire season, new programs enhancing firefighting efforts, and the unique relationship between forestry and local communities. From night-time firefighting helicopters to engaging locals in wildfire support, tune in to learn more about the relationship between forestry and the frontline.

The Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA) is a non-profit association that has been the voice of the sustainable forest industry in Alberta since 1942. Alberta's forest industry supports over 31,500 jobs and generates $5.8 billion in provincial GDP.

 Join us as we connect with industry leaders and discuss topics like sustainability, innovation, partnerships,  nature-based climate solutions, and more. Don't forget to follow us on social media @albertaforests and @loveabforests to join the conversation.

In this episode of Forestry Talks, Aspen sits down with Jesse Petroskey, a Woodland Supervisor in the Mackenzie Region, recently designated as the Forest Capital of Canada. Jesse shares his unexpected journey from aspiring dentist to passionate forester, and how the forestry program at NAIT changed his life. The pair explore the critical role of adaptive management in Alberta's wildfire-prone landscape and dig into Tolko's approach to forest regeneration. 

Tune in to discover what makes the Mackenzie Region so special and learn how its community and industry are working together to ensure a resilient future for Alberta's forests. 

The Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA) is a non-profit association that has been the voice of the sustainable forest industry in Alberta since 1942. Alberta's forest industry supports over 31,500 jobs and generates $5.8 billion in provincial GDP.

 Join us as we connect with industry leaders and discuss topics like sustainability, innovation, partnerships,  nature-based climate solutions, and more. Don't forget to follow us on social media @albertaforests and @loveabforests to join the conversation.

In this special episode of Forestry Talks, Aspen takes us to the Mackenzie Region of Alberta, which is recognized as the Forest Capital of Canada for 2024. Aspen is joined by Lisa Wardley, a dedicated councilor from Mackenzie County and co-chair of the Forest Capital initiative, along with co-chair Melanie Plantinga, a seasoned forestry contractor. 

Together, they explore the significance of this national designation and how it brings to light the rich forestry heritage of the Mackenzie Region. From celebrating local events like the motorcycle rally in the forest to engaging with the community through tree planting and sustainable forestry practices, Lisa and Melanie share the challenges and triumphs of living, working, and playing in one of Canada's most forest-dependent regions. 

 Tune in to hear inspiring stories from the heart of Alberta's boreal forest, learn about the remarkable accomplishments in sustainable forestry, and discover what makes Mackenzie County a truly special place to call the Forest Capital of Canada.

The Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA) is a non-profit association that has been the voice of the sustainable forest industry in Alberta since 1942. Alberta's forest industry supports over 31,500 jobs and generates $5.8 billion in provincial GDP.

 Join us as we connect with industry leaders and discuss topics like sustainability, innovation, partnerships,  nature-based climate solutions, and more. Don't forget to follow us on social media @albertaforests and @loveabforests to join the conversation.