Overview of natural resource research

British Columbia has a long and rich history of government research within the natural resource sector. Dozens of research scientists working across the province contribute to a better understanding and stewardship of our natural environment.

On this page

• History of the forest research program
• Overview of the forest research program

History of government research in the B.C. forestry sector 

In 2021, the Ministry of Forests Research Program celebrated the 100-year anniversary of ongoing scientific research supporting the sustainable management and stewardship of British Columbia’s forests.

It was 1921 when the Forest Service hired their first scientist, J.L. Alexander, to research forest regeneration, growth and yield of tree species and fire protection. Today, the program has over 85 government research scientists in fields such as soil science, plant ecology, hydrology, geomorphology, forest pathology, silviculture and wildfire ecology. They investigate all aspects of British Columbia's forest landscape to increase our knowledge of the sustainable management of the province's natural resources. Among the many other benefits, this government-led research has contributed to a better understanding of the effects of climate change on forests, lands and waters.

In the video below, Steve Baumber, senior timber tenures forester, provides a brief history of government forest research in the province over the last hundred years.

Overview of the forest research program

The program leads more than 180 government research projects on an annual basis. Its scientists work with government, First Nations, academic and research institutions and industry to deepen scientific knowledge. This is made available to decision makers to steward British Columbia's forests responsibly and promote management of natural resources with scientifically sound information.

Ministry research scientists communicate their work by publishing in peer-reviewed journals, technical reports, and extension publications with direct applicability to natural resource management.

Research Talks series 

Research Talks is a YouTube series featuring scientists from the forest research program sharing key findings of their work.