Líl̓wat Forestry Ventures (LFV), the forestry division of the Líl̓wat Nation, approaches its work in the forest with a deep commitment to stewardship, one that balances ecological health, cultural values, and long-term sustainability. Rather than focusing solely on resource extraction, LFV takes a holistic view of forest management, recognizing the interconnected relationships between trees, wildlife, water, and people.

This approach is reflected in practices like intentionally leaving trees standing during forestry operations, ensuring that the forest continues to function as a living system that can regenerate, support biodiversity, and carry forward the cultural knowledge held within the land.

“When work is done in a forest area, not every tree is meant to be removed. Retention trees are the ones we leave behind based on the site plan and required stems per hectare,” said Hayden Leo, Forestry Technician with LFV. “These are chosen carefully, often because they are larger and can help the forest recover more naturally. In drier areas, they provide shade and create better conditions for new trees to grow. They also help spread seeds, which supports the next generation of forests.”

Leaving these trees behind also helps wildlife. Even after work is completed in an area, these trees continue to provide places for birds and other animals to rest, feed, and move through the landscape. Without them, those spaces would be lost.

Some of the trees that remain are also part of Líl̓wat history. These are known as culturally modified trees that were used in the past for cultural practices, such as removing cedar bark or gathering materials.

“You can often still see marks on these trees from that use,” added Leo. “They are left standing not because they will be used again, but because they represent a connection to how the land has been cared for over generations.”

Cutting these trees down, especially for firewood, can undo that purpose. While firewood gathering remains an important and accepted use of forest resources, retention trees are intentionally left standing for ecological and cultural reasons. Cutting these trees, even one at a time, can affect wildlife habitat, limit new growth, and remove something that was meant to be protected. Together, they play an important role in keeping the forest balanced and healthy over time.

To help protect retention trees, LFV has placed signs in active work areas so people can understand why certain trees are left standing.

“Community members and visitors are asked to respect these areas and avoid cutting or disturbing those trees,” noted Leo.

This work also connects to ongoing fuel management efforts in the area. While reducing wildfire risk is important, LFV continues to balance that work with protecting wildlife, supporting forest regrowth, and respecting cultural values. Leaving some trees behind is an important part of that balance.