It has been a very busy few months at Robin B. Clark Inc. (RBC Inc.). We’ve been working on a number of projects such as preparing Community Wildfire Protection Plans, writing forest site plans, presenting at conferences, and conducting community forest studies.
Community Forest Feasibility Study
In 2015, the Village of Pemberton hired RBC Inc. to carry out a feasibility study for the creation of a community forest. After months of assessing the forest, speaking with community members and doing our own research, we finally presented our findings to the Mayor and Council of Pemberton. In my 11 months of working at RBC Inc., this has been my favourite project to work on. It has allowed me to take wonderful day trips up to the beautiful Village of Pemberton. I would spend my days assessing the forested mountains with the hot sun beaming on my face. I almost feel guilty for getting paid to do this since I enjoy it so much. Not only is Pemberton beautiful, but also this project has allowed me to understand the entire process of responding to a Request For Proposal (RFP), meeting with Village of Pemberton staff members, received important community feedback, and effectively presenting ideas in the form of a report and PowerPoint presentation.
What is a community forest?
Taken from the BC Community Forest Association website
“A community forest can be described as any forestry operation managed by a local government, community group, First Nation or community-held corporation for the benefit of the entire community. Community forestry involves the three pillars of sustainable development: social, ecological, and economic sustainability. At its core, community forestry is about local control over and enjoyment of the benefits offered by local forest resources.”
Extra note
Blackbird Bakery! I just have to add in a side note about this lovely little café in Pemberton. The old railway station has been converted into an incredible bakery with spectacular views and delicious baked goods. If you ever visit Pemberton, you must go to this gem- you won’t regret it. The rustic looking CN train still passes by the coffee shop, so you might be able to hear the choo-choo and see the train pass by while enjoying your coffee in the sun.
