The BC Council of Forest Industries (COFI) will hold its annual convention at the Prince George Conference and Civic Centre from Wednesday, April 2 to Friday, April 4.
More than 600 delegates are expected, including industry executives, policymakers, and First Nations leaders. The theme of the conference is Where Do We Stand? Strategies for Competitiveness and Sustainability.
The convention is a major gathering for the forest sector in Western Canada, addressing key challenges and innovations shaping the future of the industry.
Discussions will focus on global trade, product diversification, wildfire resilience, and fibre supply, with opportunities for delegates to engage with decision-makers across the supply chain.
Keynotes and panel discussions will cover topics such as global trade, sustainability, and wildfire resilience.
The conference will also feature a trade show and networking opportunities.
The convention kicks off on Wednesday, with early registration and an icebreaker reception at 6 p.m. at the Civic Centre.
On Thursday, the convention begins with an official welcome from COFI president Kim Haakstad, Mayor Simon Yu, and Lheidli T’enneh Chief Dolleen Logan.
The day will feature keynotes by Regional Chief Terry Teegee of the BC Assembly of First Nations and COFI’s Kurt Niquidet, who will share insights into the BC forest sector’s economic outlook.
Sessions will include a panel discussion on global markets, a spotlight on sustainable building practices, and a session on new technologies. A pre-luncheon panel will focus on Canada-U.S. relations and the future of forest products trade.
On Friday, discussions will continue with a keynote from former Oregon governor John Kitzhaber on integrated solutions to wildfire resilience and community safety.
A session on fibre availability will feature insights from former BC cabinet minister George Abbott, while BC Forests Minister Ravi Parmar will provide an address on the future of forestry in the province.
The convention will conclude with remarks from COFI president Kim Haakstad at 1:50 p.m. Friday, followed by a closing reception.
For more information and registration, visit cofi.org.
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