UBC Forestry & Environmental Stewardship is pleased to congratulate Dr. Elizabeth Wolkovich on being named Canadian Research Chair in Temporal Ecology.
Dr. Elizabeth Wolkovich
About Elizabeth’s Research
Elizabeth’s research focuses on how communities assemble and dis-assemble with global change. She draws on theory from temporal community ecology with perspectives from population and ecosystem ecology, evolutionary biology, and climatology. Her work examines the causes and consequences of plant invasions and the effects of climate change on the temporal assembly of plant communities.
About Canada Research Chairs Program (CRCP)
The Canada Research Chairs Program (CRCP) enables Canadian universities to achieve the highest levels of research excellence and become world-class research centres. Chairholders aim to achieve research excellence in engineering, natural sciences, health sciences, humanities, and social sciences. Their contributions deepen our knowledge and quality of life, bolster Canada’s international competitiveness, and help facilitate the training of future skilled professionals through teaching, student supervision, and collaboration with fellow researchers.
I am working in a chemical company in Belgium called Solvay as a Sustainability Procurement Analyst. I have been working on several projects including the “One Project One Buyer” initiative. This project aims to reduce the CO2 emissions of our company by fostering sustainable practices across the supply chain, particularly targeting scope 3 emissions. My role involves scaling up the program to ensure that over 50% of buyers are engaged with at least one sustainability project. This includes meeting with buyers to gather project information, updating progress-tracking excel sheets, and assisting in identifying new sustainability projects. I also proactively engage buyers who do not yet have a project, encouraging and guiding them to implement sustainable initiatives.
Additionally, my responsibilities extend to requesting Corrective Action Plans (CAP) through the EcoVadis platform for suppliers, where I contact them to improve their sustainability scores, focusing on areas such as Environment and Labour and Human Rights. Finally, I have led initiatives within my team to promote sustainability in the workplace. For example, I am working on putting in place sustainability contests to inspire eco-friendly actions among explores.
This co-op term has been incredibly rewarding, providing me with valuable insight into sustainable practices, how to work in a professional setting and the importance of a supportive work environment. I strongly recommend joining the co-op program as it offers practical experience, professional growth, and a deeper commitment to future career goals.
Meet Superblack Wood Philip Evans, senior author on the study and professor of forestry at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver comments on Superblack Wood. Ambrook
How harvesting small trees could create a future for B.C. forestry A pilot program to train forestry workers on harvester and forwarder machines is being developed, along with a program to teach aspiring foresters about techniques like thinning. The Tyee
Safeguarding natural areas can protect cities from flooding, Canadian study finds Professor Dr. Matthew Mitchell of the faculties of forestry and land and food systems described research that found preserving watersheds can significantly protect homes and livelihoods. EcoWatch UBC News coverage
Protecting nature can safeguard cities from floods A new study led by Dr. Matthew Mitchell of the faculty of forestry and the faculty of land and food systems found that preserving watersheds can significantly protect homes and livelihoods. Scientific Enquirer, Todays Chronic, Techcratic UBC News coverage
Silent trails deepen connection to nature, UBC research suggests Forestry PhD candidate Tara Brown described her research into the benefits of walking in silence in a forest. Global UBC News coverage
‘The land is tearing itself apart’: life on a collapsing Arctic isle Forestry professor Dr. Isla Myers-Smith discussed leading a study researching the effects of climate change on the tundra in Qikiqtaruk (also known as Herschel Island). The Guardian via AOL UK, Yahoo Canada
As Japan sends a wooden satellite into space, experts say astronauts could one day live in wooden structures Stavros Avramidis, head of UBC’s Wood Science department, advocates for using wood in long-term habitation structures. CBC
Harnessing Canada’s forests for sustainable housing and renewable energy Forestry professor of biofuels and bioenergy, Jack Saddler highlights biomass energy’s potential and the need for tax incentives to support its adoption. The Globe and Mail
Opinion: Biomass energy is a growing threat for climate, forests and B.C.’s value-added industry Dr. Suzanne Simard, a professor in the department of forest and conservation sciences, explained why biomass pellets are not as green and climate-friendly as believed. Vancouver Sun
Peter Wohlleben, the world’s most famous forester: “In cities, trees are treated like street furniture” UBC Forestry & Environmental Stewardship professor Suzanne Simard’s pioneering research on the ‘woodwide web’—a vast network of tree roots and mycelium that enables trees to exchange nutrients and signals—gained widespread recognition through Peter Wohlleben’s acclaimed book. El País
FOREST INK: New forestry model needed for northern B.C. communities Harry Nelson, UBC Forestry & Environmental Stewardship professor, shares insights on the changing dynamics of northern B.C.’s forestry industry and the potential for smaller mills to support local businesses and international markets. Williams Lake Tribune
Jeff Kerby maps extraordinary life at extremes Forestry professor Isla Myers-Smith and team worked with scientists and a Brazilian perfumer to recreate the earthy scent of thawing permafrost using geosmin for an immersive experience. National Geographic
On June 3rd, 2022, the day after graduating with a BSc in Forestry from UBC, I packed my car and made the move to Lillooet, BC, where I began my role as an Environmental Technician with St’át’imc Government Services (SGS). In this position, I’ve had the opportunity to work with so many incredible people and contribute to a variety of impactful projects for the Nation. From using eDNA to conduct presence/absence studies on white sturgeon in Seton and Anderson watersheds, engaging in wildfire recovery efforts throughout the Northern St’át’imc territory, and monitoring bighorn sheep and elk in both northern and southern communities. The diversity of projects I’ve been involved in has provided me with invaluable experience and insights.
It was during my time at SGS that I met Dr. Jennifer Grenz, who ultimately led me to pursue my MSc in the Indigenous Ecology Lab, within the Faculty of Forestry & Environmental Stewardship, in September 2023. Although returning to graduate school so soon wasn’t part of my original plan, the connections and relationships I built during my first year in Lillooet deepened my commitment to serving these communities. Both Dr. Grenz’s and SGS’ support in allowing me to continue to live in Lillooet and pursue graduate studies while working within St’at’imc has been instrumental in my decision to embark on this path.
My research focuses on centering St’át’imc worldview, knowledges, values, and needs to inform the stewardship of mule deer and their habitats in the aftermath of wildfires, while also addressing the sustenance needs of St’át’imc. My data collection so far has involved meaningful conversations with community hunters, land guardians, elders, and knowledge keepers, shared during time spent on the land, along with pick-up truck rides, laughter, and good food. I’ve also received an award from the Faculty of Forestry & Environmental Stewardship Indigenous and Community Engagement Research Fund (ICERF) to help fund and host community workshops and dinners where youth and elders have been brought together to share stories and pass on knowledge within communities over food in community settings.
Every day, I feel deeply grateful to live, work, and study in St’át’imc territory, and I hope my graduate studies can give back even a fraction of what the St’át’imc Nation has generously shared with me.
“When I first came to UBC, I began my journey in the School of Kinesiology where I had aspirations for a career in Physical Therapy or medical school. Coming from a background of science in high school and a large involvement in sports, I felt a great pressure from peers to pursue this path as they too were hoping to achieve this, and I got caught up in other people’s goals instead of my own.
My passion for helping others truly informed my decision to study Kinesiology, but my idea of how we could “help others” was limited by a narrow perspective of what health is. It wasn’t until I took an elective course at UBC, Climate Change and Health, that I realized core aspects to the determinants of human health begin from one’s environment. Whether that is access to clean water, sufficient food sources, or breathing unpolluted air, it goes without saying that human health is planetary health. After this realization, I found it difficult to imagine myself doing anything else and is when I began to research other programs at UBC that would align more with my interests.
Landing on the Faculty of Forestry & Environmental Stewardship and being able to meet with the program directors, I was immediately pulled in by the central values and goals of the faculty, as there is an understanding that if we want to help our planet, it begins by uniting students together in the classroom. The range of experiences and skills gained within the classroom are truly unique and are filled with passionate instructors and like-minded students. The list of what is possible through the Faculty of Forestry & Environmental Stewardship is endless, and means that there is something for everyone in this community.
My experience with UBC Forestry & Environmental Stewardship has been extremely positive. The sense of community created is felt immediately and greatly encouraged me to put myself out there, say hi to the person next to me, and get involved in the diverse opportunities offered within the program. In addition to a great and supportive services team, I always feel like someone has my back, whether that’s a professor or a friend”
When: Tuesday, November 5 | 6pm Where: Della Herman Theatre | Smithers, BC Tickets: Tickets by donation are available at Mills Stationary in Smithers
Join bestselling writer John Vaillant for a talk about our changing climate and the new realities of wildfire.
Author of Fire Weather, The Golden Spruce, The Tiger and more, Vaillant is a Pulitzer Prize finalist and one of Canada’s most acclaimed journalists. The presentation will be followed by a panel including Smithers-based fire ecologist Dr. Kira Hoffman, a National Geographic Explorer, Trebek Initiative grantee and researcher with the BVRC and the Faculty of Forestry & Environmental Stewardship at UBC, as well as Elder Darlene Vegh, an Indigenous scientist and fire practitioner from Wilp Wii Litsxw, Gitanyow Nation. Dr. Lori Daniels, Koerner Chair of the Centre for Wildfire Coexistence in the Faculty of Forestry & Environmental Stewardship at UBC, will be moderating the event.
Presented by UBC Forestry & Environmental Stewardship and the Bulkley Valley Research Centre.
Our Master of Sustainable Forest Management (MSFM) team invites you to an exclusive online info session to learn more about how this industry-aligned program offers an opportunity to elevate your career. Learn about course curriculum, program details and how to submit a strong application for our next cohort.
MSFM is a 9-month master’s program that prepares students for careers as professional forest land managers in North America and overseas, emphasizing the foundations of land management, land information acquisition and analysis, site-level management and sustainable land management.
Helene Marcoux
Hélène Marcoux is the manager of Malcolm Knapp Research forest and is a dedicated lifelong learner with over 20 years of experience as an ecologist, Registered Professional Forester (RPF), and post-secondary instructor. Originally from Manitoba, she began her forestry career as a tree planter in BC, later earning a Master’s in Forest Sciences from UBC. Before joining the UBC Research Forest, she taught for 7 years at BCIT. Hélène is passionate about silviculture, forest health, plant identification, and community-based forestry, and loves getting people outdoors to explore nature.
Dr. Nicholas Coops
Dr. Coops is the head of the Department of Forest Resources Management. His main research focus is the use of remote sensing technology to assess forest resources, both for conservation and production applications. Dr. Coops is specifically interested in advanced forest inventory techniques using high spatial resolution optical remote sensing imagery and LIDAR, use of remote sensing for the ecosystem and carbon accumulation modelling for biodiversity, production and greenhouse calculations, and detection of damaging agents in forests using spectral forest condition mapping.
Dr. Ken Byrne
Dr. Byrne, MSFM program coordinator, is a professional forester with a background in natural disturbance modelling and extensive practice working with practitioners to implement research – specifically in the fields of harvesting and silviculture system modelling, adapting to the impacts of climate change and leveraging technologies in the forest sector. He enjoys sharing these passions and embraces continuous improvement teaching for the benefit of students beginning their careers in forestry.
Exciting news – UBC Forestry & Environmental Stewardship’s Master of Urban Forestry Leadership program will be offered both online and in-person starting in 2025! Please see the website, and join our info session for more details.
This session is a great opportunity learn about program requirements, eligibility, admissions and submitting a strong application for our professional master’s programs.
With a focus in key areas such as urban forestry, strategic management and decision-making, this interdisciplinary professional master’s degree will give you the skills to take your career in new directions.
Dr. Sara Barron
As the program director for the MUFL program, Dr. Barron brings an expansive background in working with interdisciplinary teams to explore the various aspects of urban green space contributions to climate adaptation and human well-being. She is a member of the Green Infrastructure Research Group at the University of Melbourne and the Collaborative for Advanced Landscape Planning at UBC.
UBC Forestry & Environmental Stewardship’s new “Notes from the Field” series highlights the work of different community forests in collaboration with the British Columbia Community Forests Association.
If your community forest wishes to be featured in this publication series, please contact Deborah DeLong at deborah.delong@ubc.ca
