Leaders in Forestry: Paul Grinder

Paul Grinder, Director of CCR and member of Tl’etinqox Government

Roots of a forestry leader

For Paul Grinder, forestry isn’t just a profession; it’s a way of life rooted in respect for the land and the belief that healthy forests sustain thriving communities. As a board member of Central Chilcotin Rehabilitation Ltd. (CCR) and a Compliance and Enforcement Coordinator for the Tsilhqot’in Nation, Paul brings a steady voice, cultural insight, and decades of lived experience to the table.

Rooted in Community and Nature

Raised in Tl’etinqox, Paul spent his youth surrounded by the land and traditions of his people. Weekends and summers were often spent outdoors, where nature became both a teacher and a provider.

“I enjoyed the quietness of the outdoors and how it provided for us,” he recalls. "These early experiences laid the foundation for a lifelong appreciation of the land and a deep commitment to protecting it."

Insights from a Forestry Leader

A Day in the Field

Today, Paul’s work bridges the gap between policy and practice. In his role as a board member with CCR, he contributes to long-term visioning and decision-making on forestry projects that matter most to his community. His role as a Compliance and Enforcement Coordinator takes him across Tsilhqot’in territory, ensuring stewardship practices are followed and values are upheld.

“Every day brings new ideas and challenges. I’m often dealing directly with the wilderness, it keeps the work meaningful,” says Paul.

A Passion for Rehabilitation and Wildlife Habitat

Q. CCR works in some challenging conditions. Which CCR project or initiative stands out as one you’re especially proud of, and why?

Paul: The rehabilitation projects bring me the most joy. Restoring the land helps the forests function better, which directly benefits the animals that rely on those ecosystems. Without a proper home, many species struggle to survive. Our work addresses that, giving wildlife a better chance and helping the land recover and thrive.

Why Collaboration Matters Most

Q. CCR is guided by strong values like Stewardship, Collaboration, Resilience, Sustainability, and Indigenous Leadership. If you had to pick one that resonates most with you, which would it be? 

Paul: Collaboration. I believe it should always be present. It takes multiple organizations working together to reach a strong, unified outcome. Without collaboration, key pieces of the bigger picture will always be missing.

Forestry and Climate: Lessons from the Land

Q. Did you ever imagine forestry would be such a critical part of climate action and community resilience? 

Paul: Yes, I realized it at a very young age. Growing up, I’d wander through the forest and rely on the trees for shelter from rain, shade from the sun, and protection for the creeks I fished in. The forest gives us so much, even when we don’t realize it.

Q. What’s one thing you wish more people understood about forestry’s role in protecting communities and ecosystems? 

Paul: Many people don’t see how much forestry gives back. When managed properly, forestry supports climate action and creates jobs for families. It’s about much more than harvesting; it’s about balance, renewal, and resilience.

Q. In your experience, what is one significant difference that CCR is creating in the forestry industry that you don’t see happening elsewhere? 

Paul: CCR is essentially doing what fire does, clearing and regenerating the land, but in a controlled and intentional way. We’re building a healthy mixed forest that helps with climate adaptation and creates a stronger, more balanced wildlife habitat.

A Vital Role in Forestry’s Future

Q. Where do you see opportunities for the future of forestry, and what role do you think CCR will play in shaping that future? 

Paul: CCR is already playing a key role in changing how forestry is done. We work across the entire cycle, from planting and harvesting to creating habitat. That full-spectrum approach is what sets us apart and what will drive the industry forward.

Wildfire Risk Reduction as a Community Safety Tool

Q. What have you learned from wildfire risk reduction initiatives? 

Paul: It’s about creating a safety line for our communities. These initiatives also utilize deciduous plants to slow the spread of fire while creating jobs and reducing the risk of uncontrolled wildfires. It’s a smart, proactive approach to protecting both people and the land.

Final Reflection