Community Involvement

Investing in these communities, many of which are located in rural areas, transcends monetary investment to include truly becoming a part of the communities and understanding our impact within them.

Mercer engages with our communities in a variety of ways, from outreach and inclusion of Indigenous communities in our planning, to employing local talent and supporting local youth groups through various initiatives. We also recognize the role of local and regional governments as part of the communities where we live, operate, and serve.

Mercer works with the local governments, the community, and Indigenous rights holders, when a forest management plan is being developed or when a harvesting plan is being submitted. This is an example of how “seeking to operate with a social license” is such a critical component of our community engagement. All of our mills maintain operation specific responsibility for community relations, with ongoing consultation mechanisms and engagement processes in place to identify and address local stakeholder interests and concerns.

As part of building strong community ties, Mercer offers local residents the opportunity to learn more about what we do and how we do it. We offer tours of our mills, which also provides an opportunity to attract talent, and educate the public on the sustainability benefits of managed forests. Our Public Advisory Committee conducts regular outreach through meetings with the public to inform and educate them about Mercer and our industry as well as gather feedback and insights.

SUPPORTING EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUTH

OUTLAND YOUTH EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM (OYEP)

OYEP is a six-week work experience providing training and education in a supportive space that replicates various work environments. On August 8, 2024, Mercer Peace River hosted OYEP participants at their mill, offering insights into various departments and potential career paths in the forest products industry. Additionally, MPR representatives attended the OYEP Graduation Ceremony on August 22, 2024, at the Mihkowapikwaniy Cultural Camp in Little Buffalo, Alberta, celebrating the achievements of Indigenous youth who completed the six-week employment program.

The program takes an inclusive approach to Indigenous education, recruitment and retention, providing a safe and predictable learning environment that can be tailored to meet the needs of local communities and partners. A goal of OYEP is to collaborate with local Indigenous communities and consult with Elders to ensure youth feel culturally and spiritually supported in the workplace.

This generous donation from Mercer Celgar ensures our operations can seamlessly connect locally and globally.”

Tammy Verigen-Burk

Executive Director, Castlegar Chamber of Commerce