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Ask an Expert

Practical knowledge and real-world insights from BC’s silviculture experts.

Ask and you shall receive.

Got questions about life in the bush, safety regulations, job opportunities, or industry standards? Our experts have your back. Weekly Q&As, timely updates, and real-world experience on the topics that matter most in the field.

'Ask an Expert' Articles

This forum provides a venue for silviculture workers to find answers to questions about various industry issues. Whether it’s a technical question about first aid requirements or employment standards or a basic question about finding a job, our industry insider will provide an answer or find another expert who can.

Answers to questions will be updated weekly, along with short articles about important industry issues, and updates on seasonal topics.

My employer pays me all at once at the end of the season, and claims I get a higher tree price this way. Is this okay?

The idea of getting a higher tree price may sound appealing, but there are serious risks to accepting such arrangements, and this kind of offer should be a red flag to any planter.

What should I do when Worksafe inspects my site?

Having WorkSafeBC show up to conduct an inspection can add stress to an already difficult job, particularly for hard-working crew bosses. However, their number one goal is the same as yours….get everyone home safely. If you want your next inspection to go smoothly, remember these tips.

Let's talk about stashing

Stashing is the ultimate mark of shame for a tree planter. It is a topic that is joked about in some situations, treated as dead serious...

How can I develop good ergonomic techniques for tree planting?

Becoming a good tree planter requires honing one's movement to achieve the peak of efficiency and speed. However, what seems best for production is not always best for the body. Focusing on one or two key things each day to develop muscle memory and incrementally improve your planting motions.

Why don’t tree planting companies conduct criminal record checks for potential employees.

Criminal record checks are unlikely to provide effective protection against all undesirable workplace behavior, and strong policies, education, and workplace enforcement are the best tools for preventing unwanted or illegal workplace behavior.

Can I be held to a contract that lets me stay at a company and earn less than minimum wage?

A worker recently asked if it was okay to be paid less than minimum wage if they signed a contract in which they agreed to this condition. However, a worker cannot sign away their rights, and any such contract would be deemed invalid in a courtroom or tribunal.

How to be a Good Guest in a Small Town

Good relationships with local communities don't happen by accident. Learn about things you can do to make these relationships stronger.

Does Bear Spray Work?

While the risk of being attacked by a bear remains very low for tree planters, it remains important to be prepared to respond properly in the case of a dangerous encounter. Some workers choose to carry bear spray with them while working, and some companies have made this mandatory for their workers.

Do tree prices have to be stated before starting work?

Answer: Yes. The Ministry of Labour has stated that piece-rate prices must be communicated to workers before work begins. This prevents...

Can my employer post or share my personal production (trees planted) for others to see?

Numbers are a hot topic in planting work, but your personal production is your own business only.

What are the Principles of Respectful Conduct in Forestry

Learn about the Principles of Respectful Conduct in Forestry, how they are used in the sector, and how they can be used within organizations

An Industry Perspective from the Boots on the Ground

Don’t lose your roots; know your basics and fundamentals but look forward and look to improve, even if it seems daunting.

What has the silviculture industry done to address sexual harassment?

The silviculture industry has made strides in addressing sexual harassment, but challenges remain.

How often are tree planting workers subjected to discriminatory abuse by their employer?

No amount of discrimination is acceptable, and efforts to prevent it are ongoing. Learn more about worker protections in the industry.

What types of first aid services should be provided in a tree planting workplace?

First Aid Requirements for Tree Planting Workplaces: Essential Safety Standards

What kind of facilities can I expect to find in a tree planting camp?

Essential Facilities in Tree Planting Camps: What Workers Should Know

Am I required to wear a hardhat when I am tree planting?

Learn when head protection is required for tree planting and which helmets offer the best safety for your work environment.

How much am I supposed to be paid if I am placed on alternate duties?

Find out how much you should be paid if placed on alternate duties after an injury, including WorkSafeBC payment guidelines and caps.

Is a worker obligated to accept alternate duty or modified work when they are injured?

Injured workers must be offered modified work within their abilities—learn your rights and what happens if you decline the assignment.

Is my employer required to provide alternative duties or modified work if I am injured?

Employers must offer modified work for injured workers in 2024—learn your rights and the limitations under the Workers Compensation Act.

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