Latest Issue – Winter 2024 Branchlines
Materials made from the building blocks of wood are an expanding area of research at UBC Forestry. Whether fueling jet engines, offering alternatives to concrete and textiles or replacing plastics, the versatility of bio-based materials has opened the door to their possible application in a broad array of industries. In this issue, we explore a few examples of the potential of these bio-based disruptors, particularly in the global bid towards more sustainable and fully biodegradable products.
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Featured Articles
A Flood of Trouble
Prof. Younes Alila explains how attribution science helps explain the rising frequency and intensity of floods in British Columbia, linking these events to climate change, land use changes, and forest cover loss.
An Immersive Experience of Climate Change in the Arctic
UBC Forestry's Prof. Isla Myers-Smith uses CERC award to continue studying climate change impacts on northern ecosystems, collaborating with Indigenous communities.
Trust-based philanthropy
The Heller family established funds supporting UBC Forestry education, research, and outreach. Their flexible donations aid innovative projects, student success, and advancing wood science and sustainable forestry practices.
Overcoming barriers to Indigenous science and data sovereignty
Warren Cardinal-McTeague leads research at UBC Forestry, focusing on decolonizing science, Indigenous environmental management, and promoting Indigenous data sovereignty through initiatives like SING Canada.
Past Issues
Spring 2024 Branchlines
A new era of forestry is being ushered in by the rise of digital technology and automation, a great deal of which is also addressing the urgent need to mitigate climate change and respond to shifting community priorities. Find out how UBC Forestry is pushing boundaries with innovative research, teaching and community outreach that is equipping students and faculty members to tackle global challenges. Other features include a tribute to the late, great Dr. John Worrall, forestry student emergency fund details, student profiles and details about the new Centre for Wildfire Coexistence and Chair.
SPRING 2023 Branchlines
Greenery can be a common source of refuge and recreation in the urban environment, but have you ever stopped to wonder who maintains the lush plant life found in parks and other public spaces? In this issue, we explore the relatively new role of the urban forester, and find out what it takes to fill those shoes. We hear directly from leading urban forestry researchers who are examining the human and wildlife health implications of urban forests, as well as the important role citizens can play in maintaining green spaces. Learn from experienced BC urban foresters about landscape design, pest infestation management, wildfire preparedness and tree planting initiatives.
FALL 2022 Branchlines
The future of forestry is now. Led by innovative thinkers, groundbreaking technology and pressing social and environmental need, the forestry profession of today is addressing some of the most pressing challenges of our time. This issue takes a deep dive into sustainable forest management and the diversity of perspectives and approaches that are shaping it. Also in the fall edition: hear from a leading expert on Indigenous forest gardens. Learn about state-of-the-art cellulose-based biomaterials. Follow the family tree of 7 generations of foresters. Get the graduate and undergraduate student perspective.