Written by Benedict Roeser, a third-year Forest Resources Management student.
This summer, I had the privilege of interning with Metsähallitus in Finland, which offered an amazing opportunity to gain experience in forestry and reconnect with the country after 12 years away.
Returning to Finland was both a personal and professional highlight. This experience allowed me to reconnect with the culture, learn about forestry in Finland and experience the warmth of the sauna.
One of the most insightful aspects of the internship was learning about the differences in forestry practices between Finland and British Columbia. The level of efficiency and precision in Finnish forestry was impressive, especially in their approaches to silviculture. Observing how Finland implements sustainable practices in a way that balances ecological integrity with productivity has given me a new perspective on the possibilities within forest management.
Unique Experiences
A standout experience from the summer was participating in a prescribed burn, which was an invaluable introduction to fire ecology. Seeing firsthand the positive effects that controlled burns have on soil health and biodiversity helped me realize the positive effects fire can have in forest management. Additionally, there was a fun sense of camaraderie during the burn. Cooking makkara and drinking coffee with the entire crew will be a memory I will never forget.
Operating a single-grip harvester was another unforgettable experience. It was impressive to see its efficiency and how it minimizes soil impact. Observing the thought process behind its use and how it can be effectively paired with a forwarder was amazing to see. Watching it in action was both insightful and incredibly fun.
Silviculture in Finland
Another key aspect of the internship was gaining practical experience with Finnish silvicultural methods. I spent time in the field planning and observing various stages of forest management—from thinning and clear-cuts to the specialized soil treatments used to support forest regeneration. This hands-on experience allowed me to better understand how forestry strategies are applied to address both productivity and sustainability.
Throughout the internship, I had the chance to meet with numerous forestry specialists, each offering valuable perspectives on forest management. Everyone I encountered was incredibly kind and eager to help me learn.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone at Metsähallitus for making this internship possible and for creating such a memorable summer. Your support and dedication have left a lasting impact, both personally and professionally.