Forests are more than trees — they are vital to climate resilience, community well-being, and the local economy. In this dynamic panel discussion, leading forestry practitioners from across the Salish Sea region share practical, place-based solutions to the climate crisis rooted in regenerative forestry.
Presenters: Erik Piikkila, Mitchell Sherrin, Michael Nickels, Mark Lombard
Host: Ruth Waldick, Transition Salt Spring
Duration: 1 hour 33 minutes
Watch the Webinar
Learn how thoughtful forest stewardship can reduce wildfire risk, store carbon, support biodiversity, and revitalize local economies through collaboration and ecological practices.
What You’ll Learn
- What healthy forests look like — and how they protect us from fire
- How regenerative forestry creates jobs, enhances biodiversity, and secures water
- Insights from community-led forestry models on Cortes Island and Salt Spring
- What a sustainable, collaborative forestry operation could look like locally
- Why thinning, fuel reduction, and selective harvesting are key climate strategies
About the Speakers
- Erik Piikkila – Yellow Point Ecological Society, forestry watchdog and eco-advocate
- Mitchell Sherrin – Salt Spring Island Fire Rescue, wildfire risk reduction leader
- Michael Nickels – Founder of Seven Ravens Permaculture Academy, ecoforestry pioneer
- Mark Lombard – Cortes Community Forest, community forestry strategist
Related Resources
- Read the Salt Spring Climate Action Plan – Forests chapter
- Learn more about regenerative forestry
- Explore Seven Ravens’ education and restoration work: Seven Ravens Permaculture