Mercer Celgar has partnered with Skemxist Solutions, an Osoyoos Indian Band (OIB) company, to operate a log sort yard in Okanagan Falls, British Columbia, demonstrating our shared commitment to sustainability, responsible forestry, and community-driven economic development. Bringing together OIB’s leadership in cultural stewardship and The Sutherland Group’s forestry expertise, Skemxist Solutions benefits from Mercer’s support in providing responsibly sourced wood fiber and facilitating training programs.
Key objectives of the partnership include:
- Economic Development: Creating skilled jobs for OIB members, including log scalers and equipment operators, while providing training aligned with industry standards
- Sustainable Forestry: Maximizing fiber utilization, including salvaging fire-damaged timber, while adhering to global forestry standards
- Cultural Respect: Ensuring hiring and operations honor OIB traditions and autonomy
Operating nearly year-round, the log sort yard will support Mercer’s operations and the region’s forestry goals with success being measured through fiber utilization, safety outcomes, and community impacts, ensuring the initiative advances environmental stewardship and economic stability.
Senior Manager, Fiber and Mill Services at Mercer Celgar
