In the summer of 2022, I had the incredible opportunity to visit Haida Gwaii, a trip I had always dreamed of making. During our visit, we had the privilege of  exploring three village sites, where we were warmly welcomed and guided by Haida Watchmen. Through their storytelling, we learned about the brilliance, resilience, and courage of the Haida people, as well as the profound sorrow they experienced when smallpox ravaged their communities. The trip left me with memories and stories that I will never forget. 

This trip to Haida Gwaii was the ultimate form of experiential learning.  What better way to understand sustainable forestry practices than to stand beside a tree whose bark was harvested decades ago and yet the tree continues to thrive?