Professional foresters from the B.C. Ministry of Forests, represented by the Professional Employees Association (PEA), have escalated job action as part of the ongoing strike for fair compensation and investment in the public service, with a picket line returning to downtown Cranbrook.

Foresters are responsible for safeguarding B.C.’s forests and ensuring they are managed sustainably for the benefit of future generations.

Their work includes monitoring the impacts of logging and development, guiding reforestation and silviculture programs, assessing wildfire risks, and protecting biodiversity. They provide science-based oversight that helps balance economic, environmental, and community interests in one of the province’s most important sectors.

“Foresters are on the front lines of decisions that shape our province’s future,” said Melissa Moroz, PEA Executive Director and lead negotiator. “They ensure our forests are managed responsibly, protecting ecosystems, communities, and local economies. Without competitive wages, these experts are leaving the public service and that puts B.C.’s forests at risk.”

New picket lines have gone up at the following locations:

• Cranbrook: 129 10th Avenue S;
• Dawson Creek: 1201 103 Ave.;
• Victoria: 545 Superior;
• Chilliwack: 46360 Airport Road.

The PEA entered bargaining with the Public Service Agency on May 27, but talks broke down after the government failed to address the union’s key issues, including wages, reimbursement of required licensing fees, and a commitment to reducing reliance on external contractors, the union noted in a media release.

On August 29, members voted in favour of a strike, issued 72-hour notice and began picketing alongside the BCGEU on September 2.

Lead image: A combined PEA and BCGEU picket line on 10th Avenue S in Cranbrook. Image taken Sept. 25. Ian Cobb/e-KNOW photos

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