Líl̓wat Forestry Ventures Ltd. (LFV) is a leading forestry management corporation within the Líl̓wat Nation in Mount Currie, British Columbia. As we continue to thrive and grow, we are excited to introduce our dedicated team members who help us manage one of the Nation’s most precious resources while upholding our commitment to community safety.
Justin Green is one of the key members of our team, working as a Field Supervisor to help manage LFV’s silviculture programs and working as a Crew Leader during the wildfire season.
Interesting Facts
- Justin was introduced to forestry as part of a summer job in high school.
- He worked in construction for over a decade before returning to forestry.
- Justin has worked alongside several generations of Líl̓wat Nation members.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
My name is Justin Green, my mother is from the Líl̓wat Nation, and my father is from the ‘Namgis First Nation on northern Vancouver Island. Even though I grew up in Mount Currie, I always looked forward to visiting my grandparents in Alert Bay and Campbell River while growing up.
Interesting! How did you get introduced to forestry?
I started working in forestry as part of a summer job through the Band when I was in high school. For the first few years after high school, I worked for Lloyd Williams and then Creekside Resources doing silviculture work, primarily focused on spacing, pruning, slashing, and brushing, with a very short stint of tree planting. I also cut firewood with my father throughout high school. After those first years working in forestry, I moved on to working in construction for over a decade, before coming back to forestry and LFV.
That’s great to hear! What is your current role at LFV and how long have you been working here?
I have been with LFV since 2011, so I’m entering my 13th year. I have my Silviculture Survey Certificate and have been a Danger Tree Assessor, Level 3 First Aid Attendant, as well as a Crew Leader for LFV’s contract fire crews for the last decade. I also currently help manage the silviculture programs for LFV.
Sounds like you do a lot around here! What do you like most about working in forestry?
I’ve always enjoyed being out in the forest. We live in the most beautiful part of British Columbia, and I’m happiest when I’m out in the forest, seeing the mountains, different types of vegetation, and all the animals.
Can you tell us about any big accomplishments or highlights of your career?
I would say I am proud of my career journey so far. I started as a labourer and worked my way up to supervising and managing projects. One of the highlights has been getting to work with several generations of Líl̓wat Nation members and others from surrounding communities throughout the years. I’ve had the privilege of learning from my uncles and their friends and mentors; I’ve also had the gratification of working with my son, my nephews, and their friends in the forest.
Do you have any hobbies outside of work?
Yes, I enjoy hiking, reading, drawing, painting, and carpentry. Besides that, I also like watching movies and listening to music.
Thank you, Justin, for sharing your journey with us. Your passion and drive to make a difference around the community and protect our forests are part of what makes you a great leader and a key member of the LFV team.