Earlier in October, we had the pleasure of hosting our Semi-Annual General Meeting in scenic Nackawic. Our presenters discussed many of the challenges and opportunities about building the workforce of tomorrow and the importance of community relationships.

Thank you to our fantastic presenters: Dr. Sarah King, Director of Experiential Learning at the University of New Brunswick, Michelle Cormier, Business Development Manager at Work Global Canada Inc, Mike O'Blenis, Managing Director at Forest Protection Limited, and Tim Fox, Mayor of Nackawic-Millville Rural Community! Thank you to the Delta Fredericton Hotel for our wonderful meal. Finally, a huge thanks to our incredible hosts the Big Axe Brewery!

A cause for celebration, Bill S-222 unanimously passed in the House of Commons, with a 326-0 vote. This landmark legislation ensures that wood is considered on par with other building materials from the outset, contributing to climate resiliency, a reduced carbon footprint, and economic reconciliation through Indigenous management of wood resources. This shift in federal procurement decisions promises to showcase Canadian innovation and support the country's forest sector while promoting a greener future.

Forest NB Executive Director Kim Allen recently joined the Alberta Forest Products Association for their AGM. Opportunities to share knowledge with our counterparts across the country enhance our industry's collective strength and ability to overcome our common challenges.

The Forest NB team spent an afternoon learning about traditional Indigenous lifeways with Wabanaki Tree Spirit Tours & Events. Cecelia and son Anthony were incredibly generous with their time and expertise, guiding us through the forest and sharing knowledge of traditional uses of plants and trees, as well as stories and traditions of the Wabanaki peoples. We particularly appreciated their insights on Two-Eyed Seeing and were also delighted to share a delicious meal made of locally harvested and grown ingredients. Thank you Cecelia and Anthony!

The Forest NB team was pleased to attend the UNB Sustainability Networking Fair at UNB Fredericton! We always appreciate invitations to connect and discuss the many opportunities that sustainable forestry offers across the province!