Maxime Lépine, a professional forester, exemplifies multi-generational sustainable forest management through his work in the Woodlot program. In 2016, he purchased Woodlot #1606 in the Thompson Rivers Forest District near Stump Lake Ranch. He resides in Kelowna BC and is Metis and Status Huron Wendat (Iroquois) First Nation from Quebec. He is inspired by deep Indigenous roots and connections to his family’s St’uxwte’ws (Bonaparte) First Nation. These connections shape his holistic approach, integrating Indigenous traditions and spiritual respect for all living things in his stewardship.
Maxime’s management philosophy balances ecological health, wildlife, and community benefits, aiming to pass stewardship knowledge to future generations. Through his company Indigenous Resource Solutions, he focuses on solutions for forest management through to manufacturing.
His woodlot, previously devastated by pine beetle, is now regenerating with Lodgepole Pine and Douglas fir. Management includes infill planting, pruning, pest control, and planning for future harvests. Small-scale, intensive practices build resilience against climate, pests, and disease.
Located at approximately 1395 meters elevation, the woodlot features diverse species and healthy growth rates. Recreational lakes nearby add non-timber values, and Maxime explores eco-tourism, bio-products, and Indigenous land-based wellness initiatives. Wildfire threats and spruce weevil highlight ongoing challenges, alongside the limited immediate timber extraction opportunities.
Successes include healthy forest regrowth, family engagement through activities like tree planting, and using the woodlot for healing and cultural education. Maxime’s vision promotes long-term stewardship, multi-species planting, biodiversity, and active community involvement. He advocates for responsible ownership, sustainable practices, and the expansion of Woodlot programs as a cornerstone for BC’s forestry future.
