For the past several summers, a group of tree planters has been working deep in the remote forests of Northern Alberta, contributing to reforestation efforts in the region. These seasonal workers spend long days hiking through rugged terrain, carrying heavy bags filled with seedlings, and planting trees in areas that had been clearcut. Their work supports the recovery of boreal forest landscapes near Manning, a small farming town located approximately four hours south of the Northwest Territories border.

The crew, including 14 members, was part of a larger camp of about 50 workers employed by Outland, a reforestation company. Each day, they were flown by helicopter into designated planting sites where they meticulously found suitable spots—often mineral soil amid leftover debris such as branches and woody material, known as slash—to ensure tree seedlings had the best chance to grow.

Tree planting, while physically demanding, also presents significant mental challenges. Jeremy Young, a veteran planter from Revelstoke, British Columbia, who has six seasons of experience and spent the last three with this company, emphasized the psychological toll the job can take on newcomers. “You don’t understand how mentally difficult this job is,” he noted, underscoring the endurance and resilience required to succeed in this profession.

Among the workers are both Canadians and international hires, many of whom return year after year despite tough working conditions. Emma Sutcliffe, for example, returned after a difficult initial season, demonstrating the commitment and camaraderie that often develop in these remote work camps. Living arrangements typically consist of tents and RVs, with workers sharing communal spaces and forming close bonds as they navigate the challenges of life in isolated wilderness.

This seasonal labor has long been regarded as a rite of passage for young Canadians and international workers drawn to the demanding yet rewarding work of helping to restore the country’s forests. The work not only involves physical endurance but also a detailed understanding of the forest environment to identify appropriate planting locations that will contribute to successful reforestation.

The ongoing efforts support both ecological restoration and the forestry industry by ensuring that clearcut areas are replanted, fostering forest regeneration and maintaining the environmental health of Northern Alberta’s boreal ecosystems.