Intern at UBC Centre for SPDA – Sociedad Peruana de Derecho Ambiental in Lima, Peru
Working for the Peruvian Society for Environmental Law (SPDA) I have had the opportunity to assist in community-based conservation projects across 3 communities in the Amazonas region of Northern Peru. I have helped set up various camera traps across the dense forests of the region and processed the resulting wildlife data. The aptly named “Valley of the Waterfalls” is increasingly threatened by unsustainable slash-and-burn practices implemented to expand on short-term profitable crops such as coffee. To combat this, I helped the SPDA team with stakeholder engagement projects with local farmers and ranchers to educate on the impacts of these practices. Additionally, alongside WWF Peru I have helped prepare and follow up with community members on regenerative agricultural and ranching practices. I have also taught an English class twice a week at the local school, and really enjoyed seeing the children quickly pick up the language and greet me in English when I see them in town. This experience has made me so much more comfortable speaking in Spanish and given me the unique opportunity to see how conservation comes to play in some of the most threatened regions of the world.
Forest Inventory Data Analyst at BC Public Service in Victoria, BC
This work term, I continued my position with the Ministry of Forests in the Forest Analysis and Inventory Branch from last term. My main task this term was to produce a regression model analysis report used to compare and evaluate the performance of two tree height estimation models, as well as present the findings to our branch with my supervisor. I also created an R-based app used for streamlining the process of reviewing and analysing spatial data for the inventory update team. Through my work, I gained skills in writing and presenting scientific reports, generating professional graphs and visual in R, evaluating the prediction accuracy of regression models, programming apps using the R Shiny package and processing spatial data in R and QGIS. Co-op has been a great opportunity for my career development, and in this job I was able to gain a variety of different skills and learn about the career paths are possible in forestry.
After a multi-year hiatus from UBC Forestry, the International Forestry Student’s Association (IFSA-UBC) is returning for the 2023-2024 school year. Learn more about the group’s history, mission and values in a Q & A with President Chenming Wei.
As the IFSA-UBC President, introduce yourself!
Allow me to introduce myself as Chenming Wei, honored to serve as the President at IFSA-UBC. My journey originates from the captivating coastal city of Rizhao, China, where the beauty of nature kindled my passion for environmental stewardship. I currently tread the path of knowledge as a Master of International Forestry student at UBC. My academic foundation boasts a B.Sc. in Natural Resources Conservation from UBC and a B.Sc. in Ecology from Fujian Agricultural and Forestry University, and I have worked in roles including Junior Resource Technologist in the B.C. Ministry of Forests, and Climate Ambassador at the Langley Environmental Partners Society.
As the President of IFSA-UBC, I am steadfastly dedicated to nurturing a vibrant community where diverse perspectives unite and students to propel positive change. My diverse journey, encompassing academia, entrepreneurship, and dedicated environmental action, equips me to lead our esteemed association toward a future of shared success. I am committed to bridging regional disparities, addressing environmental challenges, and fostering a vibrant community united by a shared passion for our planet.
Could you tell us about the inspiration behind revitalizing IFSA’s presence here and your vision for its role within the UBC community?
The resurgence of IFSA-UBC within the vibrant landscape of UBC Forestry is an exciting journey inspired by our collective aspiration for meaningful engagement and impactful change. As President of IFSA-UBC, I’m delighted to shed light on the revival of this extraordinary platform and its vision for enriching the UBC community.
IFSA-UBC’s return stems from recognizing the power of collaboration and innovation in addressing today’s pressing global forestry and environmental challenges. Our shared passion for sustainable practices, international collaboration, and the dissemination of knowledge has led us to rejuvenate IFSA’s presence. Our vision is not only to restore a legacy but to elevate it to position IFSA-UBC as a catalyst for transformative ideas, cross-disciplinary exchange, and community-driven initiatives.
In the heart of UBC Forestry, we envision IFSA as a dynamic hub that fosters connections across academic, cultural, and geographical boundaries. We strive to be a bridge between UBC students and the global forestry community, igniting conversations that transcend borders and unite diverse perspectives. Through networking events, seminars, competitions and international projects, we aim to empower students with a deepened understanding of global forestry issues and the tools to drive change.
What is the core mission and values of IFSA, and how does it align with UBC Forestry’s educational and research goals?
The core mission and values of the International Forestry Students’ Association (IFSA) resonate deeply with UBC Forestry’s educational and research aspirations, creating a powerful synergy that enriches both the student experience and the broader forestry community.
IFSA is driven by the fundamental belief that sustainability, cross-cultural collaboration, and the exchange of knowledge are pivotal in shaping a more resilient and interconnected world. Our mission centers on nurturing a global network of students passionate about forestry and the environment, empowering them to bridge gaps between theory and practice. By fostering international dialogue, advocating for sustainable practices, and promoting cross-disciplinary learning, IFSA cultivates a generation of leaders poised to tackle complex global challenges.
This mission seamlessly aligns with UBC Forestry’s commitment to advancing environmental stewardship and fostering excellence in education and research. UBC’s values of innovation, diversity, and sustainability echo IFSA’s principles, creating a harmonious partnership where students are equipped with a robust skillset and a deepened appreciation for global forestry issues.
As UBC Forestry strives to shape responsible leaders who make a positive impact on the environment, IFSA provides a platform for students to actively engage with the academic community, leverage experiential learning opportunities, and contribute to meaningful change. Our shared values encompass the promotion of sustainable practices, the exchange of diverse perspectives, and the pursuit of knowledge that transcends geographical boundaries.
The IFSA has a rich history with UBC Forestry, please explain some of the background.
IFSA-UBC’s roots trace back to 2011 when a group of impassioned UBC students, fresh from their transformative experience at the 39th IFSS (International Forestry Students’ Symposium) in Finland, ignited the spark that would become our IFSA-UBC local committee.
Since then, IFSA UBC has flourished into a vibrant hub of activities, enriching the UBC experience for students passionate about forestry. From enlightening foraging trips that unveil the secrets of local ecosystems to dynamic panel discussions centered around the intricacies of COP conferences, our activities transcend the boundaries of the classroom.
The essence of IFSA UBC extends beyond the borders of our campus. Each year, we send delegates to IFSS, fostering connections and building bridges with students from around the world. Locally, we collaborate with the Faculty of Forestry to deepen our sense of community and enhance the impact we collectively bring to the environmental conversation.
Our journey echoes the footsteps of those visionary students who sowed the seeds of IFSA-UBC a decade ago. Today, as we rekindle our presence, we honour their legacy by reaffirming our commitment to a sustainable and interconnected future.
Collaboration is often a driving force in achieving meaningful change. How does IFSA foster collaboration among forestry students?
Collaboration is the heartbeat of IFSA-UBC’s DNA, pulsating with the fervour of collective action and shared purpose. Locally, IFSA-UBC acts as a nexus where students from diverse forestry backgrounds converge, uniting their distinct perspectives into a symphony of ideas. Through workshops, seminars, and interactive events, we provide a canvas where knowledge can be freely exchanged, and friendships are formed beyond classroom walls.
Our commitment extends beyond our campus boundaries, resonating globally through the expansive IFSA-UBC network. By participating in international forestry symposiums, meetings, and conferences, we bridge geographical gaps and cultivate a cross-cultural dialogue that transcends borders. These interactions allow students to immerse themselves in a tapestry of international experiences, fostering mutual learning and understanding. As the conduits of knowledge and change, IFSA-UBC acts as a beacon, guiding forestry students toward a shared vision of sustainability, resilience, and unity.
Forest-related challenges, like climate change and conservation, are global concerns. How does IFSA contribute to raising awareness and finding solutions to these critical issues?
IFSA-UBC is acutely aware of the global nature of forest-related challenges and is committed to playing a significant role in addressing them. By bringing together students from diverse backgrounds and cultures, IFSA-UBC creates a platform for the exchange of ideas and knowledge. Through events, seminars, and workshops, we promote discussions on critical issues like climate change, conservation, and sustainable resource management.
Our approach involves collaboration with academic institutions, research organizations, and industry professionals worldwide. We participate in international conferences, symposiums, and projects to stay informed about the latest developments and to contribute our unique perspectives. We will use social media and digital platforms to share valuable insights, research findings, and success stories that inspire action and awareness on a global scale.
IFSA-UBC recognizes the importance of local engagement by organizing events like tree walking therapy, academic seminar, and awareness campaigns, we connect with the broader public and empower them to be part of the solution. We aim to foster a community of informed individuals who are equipped to make a positive impact on forest-related challenges locally and globally.
The UBC Forestry community is diverse and multidisciplinary. How does IFSA-UBC plan to engage students from various academic backgrounds and encourage their involvement in the association’s activities?
IFSA-UBC embraces the diversity and multidisciplinary nature of the UBC Forestry community and is committed to providing opportunities for students from all academic backgrounds to engage and contribute. Our approach to engagement is inclusive and adaptable, recognizing that the field of forestry intersects with a wide range of disciplines, from environmental science to economics, engineering to social sciences.
We achieve this inclusivity through a variety of means. Our events and activities are designed to be accessible and appealing to students with different interests and expertise. Through organizing panel discussions, academic seminars, or field trips, we ensure that the content and themes resonate with students from various academic backgrounds. This encourages cross-disciplinary discussions and the exchange of diverse viewpoints, enriching the learning experience for everyone involved.
Student leadership plays a vital role in IFSA-UBC’s past success. Could you share some insights into the leadership opportunities that IFSA offers to UBC Forestry students?
Student leadership is at the heart of IFSA-UBC’s success, and we are dedicated to providing a platform for UBC Forestry students to develop their leadership skills and make a real impact. We offer a wide range of leadership opportunities that empower students to take the reins and shape the direction of our association.
As part of our executive team, students have the chance to hold key leadership positions, which involve responsibilities that encompass event planning, communication, finance, and more. Through these roles, students gain valuable experience in project management, team collaboration, and decision-making.
IFSA-UBC encourages students to initiate and lead their projects. If you have an idea for an event, a workshop, or a project that aligns with our mission, we provide the resources, guidance, and support to help you bring it to life. This cultivates innovation and allows students to take ownership of their initiatives and develop their leadership abilities.
Our leadership opportunities extend beyond campus as well. IFSA-UBC is part of a global network, and we will send delegates to international conferences and events, providing students with the chance to represent UBC Forestry on the global stage and connect with like-minded peers from around the world.
How can students get involved?
We offer diverse committees that cater to various interests and talents, and provide students with a range of ways to get involved and make a meaningful impact within the forestry community. IFSA-UBC is hiring now. More position details on IFSA-UBC website.
Looking ahead, what can UBC Forestry students look forward to as part of IFSA-UBC’s revitalized presence on campus?
As IFSA-UBC embarks on this exciting new chapter, UBC Forestry students can anticipate a host of engaging events, initiatives, and projects that will enrich their academic journey and foster a sense of community.
Student Presentation Night, Academic Seminars, Speech and Writing Competitions and Tree Walking Therapy.
Community Forestry Summer Studentat Sunshine Coast Community Forest in Sechelt, BC
I have been working as a summer student in the Sunshine Coast Community Forest in Sechelt. I learned a lot this summer. As a summer student, I mainly focus on forest layout and forest planning, timber cruising, recreation and habitat restoration, and fire hazard assessment. From my perspective, I received more clear career goals and had more chances to put my class understanding of forests into reality. Also, I built strong connections with the community while working on the Sunshine Coast. I tried different types of forest work this summer. I am really grateful to have this opportunity and good experience in the Sunshine Coast Community Forest and to meet really wonderful people. I really spent a good summer time throughout this job.
Environmental Program Assistantat Earthwise Society in Agassiz, BC
For my first summer Co-op term I have the privilege to work with a non-profit organization that focuses on environmental stewardship. As for my position I was responsible for assisting with both farm related and environmental related projects. This includes planting work, trail maintance, power tool usage, irrigation duties, as well as setting up and taking down the farm store. This position has been an amazing opportunity to expand my knowledge on daily farm operations which include planting, growing, and harvesting process on different types of fruits and vegetables, how to use common hand and power tools used for farming, as well as creating a meaningful relationships for tourists visiting the property.
Environmental Outreach Ambassador at City of Penticton in Penticton, BC
In my first work term, I worked as an Environmental Outreach Ambassador for the City of Penticton. Most of my job is promoting and monitoring the recycling program. Sometimes, I’m also working with the water conservation program and climate action of the City to make Penticton more sustainable. My favorite part of the job is interacting with people in the Farmers Market every Saturday. The market is a traditional event in Penticton, and it always attracts many people to visit. I work in a booth of our program to promote recycling policies and skills. We have a city tent with recycling brochures and a spinning wheel. There are some items with different ways to recycle on the wheel-people like spinning the wheel and answering the recycling methods of each item. I also need to be prepared to answer any question related to recycling, such as the method to recycle certain weird items and the waste collection schedule. On average, I need to interact with 120 people every Saturday. During regular work days, I do recycling audits of single-family and multi-family recycling carts. I use an e-bike to commute from house to house to check the recycling bins of each family. Once I find the items not supposed to be in the recycling, I will leave a tag with the guidelines for sorting out recycling on the bin. If there are lots of contaminants, I will collect the wrong items in an audit bag and tape an audit paper with more detailed information. We can also send mails with tailored explanations of the properties that are not improving. The funniest part of the job is talking with different people every day. They are all very supportive and eager to learn more about recycling. I’ve learned how to explain recycling policies to people and how to engage more people to support the program. It is a perfect entry-level job for students to learn about sustainability in the urban environment. I would highly recommend everyone to apply for this job.
Natural Areas Laborerat City of Surreyin Surrey, BC
For my first co-op term, I have been working with the City of Surrey in their Urban Forestry department as a Natural Areas Labourer. The City of Surrey is one of BC’s largest municipalities with flourishing greenspaces. A city growing as fast as Surrey has been Within that position I have learned many aspects of managing an urban forest. As broad as the city’s main overarching goals, down to the hands-on in the field work done by us labourers. Our main projects have been invasive species management. That process looks like site inspections, followed by risk assemeents then removal of plants. Trail pruning, which is an annual program in which us labourers and practitioners prune trails to a 1 meter setback on each side (up to 2 meters depending on the species of interest). And demand work, which is mainly based on members of the public submitting service requests of areas within natural areas that they see as a hazard. After requests are submitted, our technicians review the requests and send out in-house workers, which are us, or contract out larger jobs. During my time in the field, I have dialed in my native, and invasive plant ID from shrubs to trees. There is so much hands-on knowledge to learn outside of the classroom, and Forestry Co-op has been providing me with just that!
Internat Lower North Thompson Community Forest Society in Barriere, BC
Working in the Lower North Thompson Community Forest Society, I spent a rich and meaningful summer. After the content of the classroom provided me with a framework, this internship experience enriched my knowledge in the forest.
During this work experience, I did a lot of brush-cutting, which freed up forest competition and fire risk. During this period, I conducted field surveys with experienced foresters, learned more criteria and requirements, and learned more about species. I also did some development and layout. The investigation and observation in the forest made me better understand the growth environment of the trees and the rationality of harvesting planning.
Seed Orchard Workerat Incremental Forest Technologies in Wembley, AB
During my co-op term, I have been working at HASOC Seed Orchard as a tree orchard worker, maintaining and contributing to tree improvement programs. Some of my responsibilities include mowing, irrigation, the fertilizing and application of hormones to trees, and tree planting. I have learned a lot about tree and cone improvement during my time at HASOC and also about proper field work and tree planting techniques. In addition, I have also had the chance to work in various tree progeny sites performing audits and tree measurements. This position has allowed me to utilize much of the knowledge I have acquired throughout my years at UBC and allowed me to expand my knowledge on tree seed orchards and the many important tasks that are required to maintain a tree orchard.
Groundskeeperat Point Grey Golf and Country Club in Vancouver, BC
Since starting Co-op, I have been maintaining and overseeing holes 4, 5, 11, and 14 at Point Grey Golf and Country Club in Vancouver. My role includes using a walk behind mower to cut the collar and approaching of the green or mowing the tee boxes on my holes. I also move the tee markers, rake all the bunkers, and tidy up cart paths on my holes. After taking a break, my afternoons consist of trimming long grass, installing tree gators or pulling any invasive species. In addition, every week I am responsible to trim the grass around the bunkers on my holes with a push mower and line trimmer. At Point Grey, I am enjoying learning new skills such as course detail maintenance , pregermination of grass seed, and learning the course and turf expectations of a private golf course.
Golf course maintenance of turf and trees provides a professional environment to apply material learned in class into the workplace, and in turn gaining knowledge of related fields. Overall, I am grateful for this opportunity with Point Grey and looking forward to learning many more skills this summer!
