Forestry Talks

Alberta Forest Products Association
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Are you curious about sustainability, biodiversity, innovation, partnerships, nature-based climate solutions, and all things forestry? This is the podcast for you. Forestry Talks is a podcast brought to you by the Alberta Forest Products Association. Join host, Aspen Dudzic, as she connects with industry leaders, research specialists and more to learn about some of the incredible work going on in Alberta's forest sector today. Learn more about Alberta's rich forestry community by listening below, and don't forget to follow us on social media (@albertaforests and @loveabforests) to stay engaged all year long!

  1. OCT 9

    Fighting Fire, Fuelling Trade with Minister Todd Loewen

    In this special Forestry Talks episode, recorded on-site at AFPA’s 83rd AGM in Jasper, host Aspen Dudzic welcomes back Alberta’s Minister of Forestry and Parks, the Honourable Todd Loewen. Together, they get into a wide-ranging conversation covering wildfire mitigation, trade advocacy with the U.S. and Asia, the economic impact of tariffs and duties, and Alberta’s growing role in sustainable forestry leadership. From helicopter tours with Premier Danielle Smith to international trade missions in Japan and South Korea, Minister Loewen offers personal insights, policy updates, and his hopes for the future of forestry in Alberta.  It's a candid, thoughtful, and passionate look at how the province is protecting communities, supporting rural jobs, and telling Alberta’s story to the world. The Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA) is a non-profit association that has been the voice of the sustainable forest industry in Alberta since 1942. Alberta's forest industry supports over 31,500 jobs and generates $5.8 billion in provincial GDP. Join us as we connect with industry leaders and discuss topics like sustainability, innovation, partnerships, nature-based climate solutions, and more. Don't forget to follow us on social media @albertaforests and @loveabforests to join the conversation.

    28 min

  2. OCT 2

    Endless Opportunities for Forestry with Premier Danielle Smith

    In this special episode of Forestry Talks, host Aspen Dudzic is joined by Alberta’s Premier, the Honourable Danielle Smith — the first sitting Premier to attend the Alberta Forest Products Association AGM in over a decade. The two dive into the big-picture view of Alberta’s forestry industry, including its growing importance to Indigenous and rural communities, the economic impact across the province, and the case for managing wildfire risk through active forest management. Premier Smith also shares her candid thoughts on U.S. trade tensions, new international markets, and how Alberta is positioning itself as a global leader in forest product manufacturing. From softwood lumber disputes to innovation in biofuels and international trade missions — this is a must-listen for anyone who cares about Alberta’s forest future. The Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA) is a non-profit association that has been the voice of the sustainable forest industry in Alberta since 1942. Alberta's forest industry supports over 31,500 jobs and generates $5.8 billion in provincial GDP. Join us as we connect with industry leaders and discuss topics like sustainability, innovation, partnerships, nature-based climate solutions, and more. Don't forget to follow us on social media @albertaforests and @loveabforests to join the conversation.

    16 min

  3. JUN 26

    A New Era of Climate Solutions with Craig Werner

    In this episode of Forestry Talks, host Aspen Dudzic sits down with Craig Werner, Director of Partnerships and Engagement at Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA), to discuss the exciting intersection of climate innovation and forestry. Since 2009, ERA has invested over $1 billion into technologies that improve environmental performance while boosting Alberta’s economy—including $70 million into forestry-related projects alone. From turning forest residuals into hydrogen, to upgrading pulp mills for greater efficiency and lower emissions, Craig walks us through some of the most groundbreaking work being done in Alberta. Learn how ERA’s strategy, including its brand-new interactive project map, is shaping the province’s future. Whether you’re in the forestry sector or just curious about how Alberta is tackling climate challenges, this episode offers insights, inspiration, and a whole lot of optimism. The Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA) is a non-profit association that has been the voice of the sustainable forest industry in Alberta since 1942. Alberta's forest industry supports over 31,500 jobs and generates $5.8 billion in provincial GDP. Join us as we connect with industry leaders and discuss topics like sustainability, innovation, partnerships, nature-based climate solutions, and more. Don't forget to follow us on social media @albertaforests and @loveabforests to join the conversation.

    37 min

  4. MAY 27

    Sawdust to Sustainability with Gordon Murray

    You might associate wood pellets with backyard barbecues, but their real potential lies in shaping a sustainable energy future. In this episode, Aspen speaks with Gord Murray, Executive Director of the Wood Pellet Association of Canada, about how Canada’s wood pellet industry is helping reduce global greenhouse gas emissions, supporting sustainable forest management, and leading the bioeconomy. Gord shares the incredible journey of how the industry evolved, misconceptions about pellet production, and what lies ahead—from powering cities to producing biochar and enabling carbon capture technologies.   Check out WPAC: https://pellet.org/ The Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA) is a non-profit association that has been the voice of the sustainable forest industry in Alberta since 1942. Alberta's forest industry supports over 31,500 jobs and generates $5.8 billion in provincial GDP. Join us as we connect with industry leaders and discuss topics like sustainability, innovation, partnerships, nature-based climate solutions, and more. Don't forget to follow us on social media @albertaforests and @loveabforests to join the conversation.

    37 min

  5. MAY 15

    Why Canada Should Build More with Wood with Rick Jeffery

    Canada has the most sustainably certified forests in the world, yet we still rely heavily on exports instead of building more with our own wood. In this episode, Aspen Dudzic speaks with Rick Jeffery, President and CEO of the Canadian Wood Council, to explore why that needs to change—and how it can. Rick shares insights from his 40-year career in forestry, discusses innovation in Canadian forest products, and highlights the climate, economic, and social benefits of increasing domestic wood use. They unpack building codes, hybrid construction, biophilic design, and how Alberta can lead with a “Build with Alberta Wood Act.” The Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA) is a non-profit association that has been the voice of the sustainable forest industry in Alberta since 1942. Alberta's forest industry supports over 31,500 jobs and generates $5.8 billion in provincial GDP. Join us as we connect with industry leaders and discuss topics like sustainability, innovation, partnerships, nature-based climate solutions, and more. Don't forget to follow us on social media @albertaforests and @loveabforests to join the conversation.

    35 min

  6. FEB 27

    Unlocking Opportunities for Canadian Wood with Bruce St. John

    Trade is top of mind for everyone right now, and market diversification is a key part of those conversations. In this episode of Forestry Talks, host Aspen Dudzic is joined by Bruce St. John, President of Canada Wood, to dive into the decades-long efforts to diversify Canada’s forest product exports.  Bruce shares fascinating insights into how countries like Japan, China, and Vietnam are integrating Canadian wood into their industries—not just for construction, but for everything from seismic-resistant buildings to high-end furniture. We also explore how Alberta plays a crucial role in securing international demand and why emerging markets are looking to Canadian forest products as part of their sustainability solutions.  Join us for an in-depth discussion about why international market diversification is more important than ever, the impact of evolving trade policies, and the exciting innovations shaping the future of Canada’s forestry exports. The Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA) is a non-profit association that has been the voice of the sustainable forest industry in Alberta since 1942. Alberta's forest industry supports over 31,500 jobs and generates $5.8 billion in provincial GDP. Join us as we connect with industry leaders and discuss topics like sustainability, innovation, partnerships, nature-based climate solutions, and more. Don't forget to follow us on social media @albertaforests and @loveabforests to join the conversation.

    38 min

  7. JAN 30

    Alberta Trade, Forest Products, and Sustainable Solutions with Jason Krips

    In this episode, host Aspen Dudzic sits down with Jason Krips, President and CEO of the Alberta Forest Products Association, to discuss Alberta's forestry sector as a solution to key challenges. They explore wildfire mitigation strategies, the province’s role in international trade, and the importance of showcasing Alberta’s sustainable forestry practices to global markets. Jason shares key insights from recent trade missions and outlines the vision for Alberta to become North America's top jurisdiction for forest products. The Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA) is a non-profit association that has been the voice of the sustainable forest industry in Alberta since 1942. Alberta's forest industry supports over 31,500 jobs and generates $5.8 billion in provincial GDP. Join us as we connect with industry leaders and discuss topics like sustainability, innovation, partnerships, nature-based climate solutions, and more. Don't forget to follow us on social media @albertaforests and @loveabforests to join the conversation.

    25 min

  8. 2024-12-17

    Inside Education: Bridging Classrooms and Forests with Kathryn Wagner

    In this episode of Forestry Talks, host Aspen Dudzic sits down with Kathryn Wagner, Executive Director of Inside Education, to explore the transformative power of environmental and forestry education. Kathryn shares her journey from high school teacher to leading Inside Education, an organization at the forefront of natural resource education in Alberta. Together, they discuss the impact of field trips, teacher professional development, and initiatives like the Forestry Futures Alliance. Discover how these programs inspire students and teachers alike to engage with Alberta’s forests, nurture sustainable practices, and envision a future where environmental stewardship thrives. The Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA) is a non-profit association that has been the voice of the sustainable forest industry in Alberta since 1942. Alberta's forest industry supports over 31,500 jobs and generates $5.8 billion in provincial GDP. Join us as we connect with industry leaders and discuss topics like sustainability, innovation, partnerships, nature-based climate solutions, and more. Don't forget to follow us on social media @albertaforests and @loveabforests to join the conversation.

    28 min
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About

Are you curious about sustainability, biodiversity, innovation, partnerships, nature-based climate solutions, and all things forestry? This is the podcast for you. Forestry Talks is a podcast brought to you by the Alberta Forest Products Association. Join host, Aspen Dudzic, as she connects with industry leaders, research specialists and more to learn about some of the incredible work going on in Alberta's forest sector today. Learn more about Alberta's rich forestry community by listening below, and don't forget to follow us on social media (@albertaforests and @loveabforests) to stay engaged all year long!

Information

  • Creator
    Alberta Forest Products Association
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    40
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Forestry Talks
  • Show Website
    Forestry Talks

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