Reintroducing Siya Forestry: A Partnership Rooted in Sustainability and Community Stewardship

Since its launch in summer 2024, Siya Forestry LP—a joint venture between Nk’Mip Forestry LLP of the Osoyoos Indian Band (OIB) and Infinity-Pacific Stewardship Group—has made significant progress in sustainable forest management across the Okanagan, Kootenay, and Boundary regions.

This collaboration blends OIB’s traditional land stewardship with Infinity-Pacific’s technical expertise, creating a unique approach to forestry that prioritizes environmental, cultural, and economic benefits for local communities.

The Siya Forestry team hit the ground running, forming key partnerships with industry leaders like Weyerhaeuser, Interfor, Gorman Bros, Mercer/Celgar, BC Timber Sales, and the Ministry of Forests. These collaborations have enabled the team to tackle diverse land management projects, including:

·      Wildfire Risk Reduction: Initiatives on OIB reserve lands and neighbouring areas to enhance fire safety by integrating traditional Indigenous knowledge with modern forest management practices.

·      Native Seed Collection: A 2024 project where OIB members and forestry professionals gathered seeds from native shrubs and trees, supporting future restoration and biodiversity efforts.

·      Non-Timber Forest Products Project: Focused on collecting and managing resources like native plants that hold cultural significance and long-term economic potential for OIB.

Photo 1: Cultural Burning; Photo 2: Wildfire Suppression Training

Dan Macmaster, Head of Forestry at Nk’Mip, emphasized the importance of these projects.

“Our future forests need to be places where wildlife thrives, water is protected, and communities can continue traditional activities like food collection and hunting—all while managing the land sustainably for future generations.”

Photo 3:  Stills from Native Seed Collection; Photo 4: Collection team

Siya Forestry’s growth has also led to new job opportunities, attracting OIB members and forestry professionals eager to contribute to its vision. As the team expands, they’re focusing on developing a Land Use Management Plan for the First Nations Woodland Licence, a significant initiative set to launch in 2025.

Mike Petrie, President of Infinity-Pacific, reflects on the team’s success:

“One of our key milestones has been the significant growth in our team’s expertise and the positive response from industry and community partners,” he shared. “We’re excited about the opportunities ahead and remain committed to creating more jobs and fostering sustainable forestry practices.” 

As Siya Forestry continues to evolve, the team remains focused on aligning forestry practices with OIB’s long-term land management goals. With new projects on the horizon, including expanded wildfire mitigation and community-focused initiatives, it is poised to make an even more significant impact in 2025 and beyond.

For more information on Siya Forestry’s services, ongoing projects, and job opportunities, visit www.siyaforestry.ca.