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The Wildland Ecology Centre at Siwash Lake

Taking care of the planet is our guiding philosophy. While crafting our world-class eco-lodge and guest ranch, we've always focused on sustainability — striving to be true stewards of the land.

Since our family became guardians for this precious piece of wilderness at Siwash Lake more than forty years ago, it has been our mantra to stay in harmony with the surrounding environment.



 

Black bear track among the ash
The beautiful wildfflower, Fireweed, that thrives after a forest fire, represents hope and resiliency
Tree planting at Siwash Lake.




At Siwash Lake, we care immensely about the environment as much as we take great care of our guests. You'll sense a delightful synergy with Nature while you are here and you’ll appreciate the peace and calm that this magical place exudes.

All whom visit this unique eco-lodge are in awe at living so close to the natural world, which invigorates the mind, body and spirit in extraordinary ways. Such gifts are a privilege in today’s world, and are why everyone at Siwash Lake sees themselves as caretakers of the land.

We take our responsibility seriously because we know that in return, the land will continue to nurture all those who visit for generations to come. For instance, over 90% of our electricity is harvested from the sun — just one initiative of many — in our efforts to operate in a highly sustainable manner.

The National Geographic Society recognized our hard work a few years ago and welcomed Siwash Lake into the folds of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World: it was an outstanding collection of global leaders in the realm of responsible tourism.

But Nature's lessons can be really hard sometimes, especially when a massive forest fire sweeps through. Devastated at first, by the damage to our wild paradise, we've learned to accept that the land is forever changing. The fire was a severe example of climate change and how colonials have mismanaged the land. Now, in the wake of the fire, we are bearing down on conservation efforts to preserve all the remaining refugia (lush areas that escaped the flames), and are focusing on reforestation in the fire affected areas.

We are committed to taking care of both people and the planet. We created the Wildland Ecology Centre, a not-for-profit society that serves to showcase and protect the sensitive eco-system created by wildfire in British Columbia. The Society's headquarters are based on our unique Wildland Private Nature Reserve, which encompasses 80 acres adjacent to the Siwash Lake home base.



Canada geese nest in the marshes of our private Wildland Nature Reserve

"Nature is our Goddess,
And the wilderness,
Our Cathedral."

Fireweed in a black enchanted snag forest

 

  Wildland Ecology Centre

British Columbia's Cariboo region is rich with natural resources, Indigenous traditions and culture, and a remarkable history. In 2017, much of the area was struck by severe wildfire.

As such, the BC Wildland Ecology Centre is headquartered in the heart of a rare and sensitive, post-fire biome at our private Wildland Nature Reserve.

While remaining dedicated to sustainable, culturally appropriate processes, the Wildland Ecology Centre serves to foster connection with the land, steward the environment for future generations, and preserve the past.

WEC protects, studies, and showcases the sensitive ecosystem created by wildfire in BC, through conservation, education, reforestation, and responsible tourism activities.

The society hosts culture camps for the youth of wildfire affected Indigenous communities with the theme of healing and renewal amid a regenerating landscape. These camps offer experiential learning from community knowledge keepers to help youth build strength and resiliency by reconnecting with a traditional way of life on the land.

WEC also functions to connect stakeholders, government, and First Nations. To facilitate best use of the land moving forward and to preserve long term integrity of the ecosystem, WEC directors are often seen advocating at regional and provincial government levels to effect change. Most recently, they have been lobbying on behalf of multiple stakeholders for BC Mining Act reform.