{"type":"rich","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Transistor","provider_url":"https://transistor.fm","author_name":"Forestry Uncut","title":"Silviculture: Training the Next Generation","html":"","width":"100%","height":180,"duration":1831,"description":"How do we attract, train, and retain a new silviculture workforce in a system where the pay rates and support programs haven’t kept up with rising costs?In this episode of Forestry Uncut, host Todd Burgess speaks with Dennis Bedford and Tina McCauley of D. Bedford Forestry Services, a silviculture company based in Chester Grant, Nova Scotia. They share how they’re tackling one of the biggest challenges in the forestry sector: attracting and retaining skilled workers.Dennis and Tina explain:What silviculture really is, from tree planting and spacing to pre‑commercial thinning.Why “farming trees” is essential for forest health, fire resilience, and carbon capture.How stagnant silviculture rates and rising costs make it hard for workers to earn a decent wage.Their innovative model: providing all the gear, paying above minimum wage during training, and focusing on high school athletes and co‑op students.How partnerships with Forest Heights Community School, the O2 program, and local supporters like Hughes Diesel in New Ross are creating a pipeline of motivated young workers.Why their teen crews are not just learning tree ID and spacing, but also work ethic, independence, and leadership.They also discuss:The barriers they’ve faced accessing government supports and subsidies, especially with 16‑year‑old workers.Their vision for silviculture as a recognized trade, with clear training paths and mentorship.How better silviculture practices can support biodiversity, protect old growth, and act as a buffer against wildfires and insect outbreaks.If you care about the future of forestry, youth employment, or climate-resilient forests, this conversation offers a hopeful, ground-level view of what change can look like.0:00 – Intro: Why Silviculture MattersTodd frames silviculture, healthier trees, and introduces the guests.0:40 – Meet Dennis and Tina of D. Bedford Forestry ServicesBackground on their company and roles in Nova Scotia forestry.1:36 – What Is Silviculture,...","thumbnail_url":"https://img.transistorcdn.com/mK1vTA2zNKQxOD9Ve4hB0ACafonFnFKBsY_LSwG2gzU/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:400/h:400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS9iOWRi/YjMxM2IwY2YwZjI3/ZjYwM2IzNzgzMGUx/ZDQ0ZC5wbmc.webp","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300}