How Cheryl Hodder is shaping the future of sustainable forestry.

We are pleased to share Cheryl Hodder has stepped into the role of our new Chief Forester for Wood Products Canada. With nearly three decades of experience in the forestry sector, Cheryl brings a deep passion for sustainable forest management and a strong commitment to supporting our Woodlands teams across British Columbia and Alberta.

A passion for plants, people and forests.

Cheryl’s journey into forestry began during her post-secondary years at the University of Alberta. Originally enrolled in a plant science program, she quickly discovered a deeper calling after taking an introductory forestry course. “I loved plants and trees and the science behind how they grow,” she says. “But it was the connection between people and forests that really drew me in – the complexities of managing the many values people hold for wild spaces and forest resources.” This sparked a shift in her academic path, ultimately leading to a degree in Forest Management in 1998.

Cheryl’s first experience with Canfor dates back to 2004, when she worked in Fort St. James, British Columbia. Although the operation was sold shortly thereafter, Cheryl rejoined the Canfor family in 2020 at our Plateau operation. She now steps into the Chief Forester role, following in the footsteps of Kalin Uhrich who recently retired after an astounding nine-year career as Chief Forester and over 40 years of experience in the forest industry.

Leading a team of forestry experts.

In her new position, Cheryl leads a talented team of subject matter experts including Kari Stuart-Smith, Biodiversity and Wildlife Manager, Jamie Eason, Timber Pricing Manager, Ian Johnson, Indigenous Relations Manager, Sara Cotter, Certification and Compliance Coordinator, and Terry Lazaruk, Strategic Planning Coordinator.

Together, they support Canfor’s long-standing commitment to sustainable forestry, sound land management, and meaningful engagement with Indigenous and local communities. Cheryl is particularly proud of the collaborative nature of her work.

“What I enjoy most is the opportunity to work alongside our dedicated Woodlands teams,” Cheryl shares. “Helping them create practices that incorporate biodiversity and wildlife principles into our operations is the most rewarding aspect of my career.”

Supporting sustainable practices across provinces.

In the Chief Forester role, Cheryl represents Canfor at provincial and federal forestry associations with various government agencies and provides support to Canfor regarding sustainability metrics and strategic analysis. Her leadership is especially critical as we navigate changes to our operational footprint.

As we adapt to changing operational needs, Cheryl is focused on fostering stronger collaboration. Her team plays a central role in integrating forestry practices and strategies across provinces to ensure consistency, efficiency, and innovation. “Our goal is to support and advance the integration of our Woodlands team across both provinces on key strategic forestry files,” Cheryl explains.

That work is already underway, with Cheryl and her team actively aligning operational goals with broader strategic direction. As government policy frameworks continue to change, Cheryl and her team are committed to leading and supporting our Canadian Woodlands teams in adapting to those changes.

Outside of work

Beyond her professional responsibilities, Cheryl brings the same spirit of care and collaboration to her personal life. She volunteers with the Fireweed Collective Society, an organization based in Fort St. James, BC, that operates a women’s shelter and provides vital support for women and children experiencing violence and abuse. Cheryl describes her work with Fireweed as deeply meaningful and rewarding, offering her the opportunity to connect with and support many courageous women.

At home, Cheryl and her husband live on an acreage, where they share their space with three dogs, 12 turkeys, and 50 chicken.

A strong start to a visionary role.

Her leadership is guided by a deep respect for both science and the human side of forestry, recognizing that the future of the industry will depend on our ability to balance environmental stewardship with economic and social considerations.

As she fully steps into her new role, Cheryl brings with her not only technical expertise, but also a collaborative spirit and deep-rooted belief in the power of teamwork.