Tree planters planted 29 million seedlings in 2025 season

This summer, Irving Woodlands employed 121 tree planters and 28 tree planting staff to plant 29 million seedlings across New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Maine.  

It marked an 11-million-seedling increase over 2024 – the boost in tree planting capacity buoyed by the fact that 38 tree planters and 17 tree planting staff are returning for another season.

Returning employees brought with them a familiarity with processes, culture and expectations that contributed to increased productivity and efficiency. Irving Woodlands is committed to providing a positive and rewarding work environment and takes pride in its ability to retain top talent year over year.    

"It’s rewarding to help my planters and staff make the most of their work and camp experience,” said Casey Sappier, Project Manager for the northern New Brunswick team.

“I do my best to help everyone reach their goals by helping crew leaders gain leadership experience and foster a positive work environment for themselves and their planters, or coaching planting techniques for tree planters to be more efficient.”

One tree planter can plant about 2,000 seedlings per day. These are of various species and matched to soils and climate to ensure they are healthy over their lifetime. As nature's air filters, these trees will remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as they grow.

In 2024, the team of nearly 100 employees planted 18.4 million seedlings. More than just a number of seedlings planted, tree planters also develop a sense of accomplishment knowing their work is leaving a legacy that lasts.

Throughout the season, they developed knowledge of environmental stewardship and the vital role forestry plays in a vibrant economy, all while building skills in teamwork and leadership.

“There is nothing better than seeing a planter do what they believed was impossible. The amount of joy I feel when I see them reach and surpass their goals is incredible,” Casey said. “I personally have gained more leadership and time management skills and created so many unforgettable memories.”

 

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