How Much Does a Tree Planter Make in BC?

Tree planting is a physically demanding and challenging job in British Columbia, Canada, where most of the forests are government-owned and managed. However, it can be a highly rewarding and lucrative career for those who are up for the task. In this article, we will explore how much a tree planter makes in BC and what factors influence their earnings.

What is Tree Planting?

Tree planting is the act of manually planting young trees in deforested areas to help re-establish the forest ecosystem. Tree planters work in teams and are responsible for planting and caring for up to 1,500 seedlings per day, depending on the terrain and weather conditions. They use specialized planting tools, such as hoedads, to create holes in the soil, insert the seedlings, and pack the soil around them. Tree planters are hired by forestry companies and contractors and work mostly in remote locations with limited access to amenities and services.

How Much Does a Tree Planter Make?

The average pay for a tree planter in BC is around $300 to $500 per day, depending on their experience, productivity, and the company they work for. Most tree planters are paid based on the number of trees they plant, with each tree paying a specific amount, which is usually between 10 and 25 cents per tree. The more efficient and skilled a tree planter is, the more trees they can plant in a day and the more they can earn. Some companies may also offer bonuses for meeting or exceeding daily or seasonal planting targets.

The tree-planting season in BC runs from early May to August, depending on the weather and the location. During this period, a full-time tree planter can make between $10,000 to $25,000 or more, depending on the number of days and trees they plant. Some experienced tree planters who work for high-paying companies or projects may even earn up to $50,000 or more per season. However, the income of a tree planter can vary greatly depending on their location, the number of hours they work, their living expenses, and other factors.

What Factors Influence Tree Planters' Earnings?

Several factors can influence how much money a tree planter can make in BC, some of which include:

Experience: Experienced tree planters are often more productive and efficient than newcomers, enabling them to plant more trees in a day and earn more money.

Productivity: The number of trees a planter can plant in a day is usually the most significant factor in determining their income. High productivity planters are often rewarded with bonuses and other incentives.

Location: The region where a tree planter works can also affect their earnings. Some regions have higher tree planting rates than others and pay more money per tree.

Company: Different forestry companies and contractors offer different pay scales and terms of employment, which can affect a tree planter's income.

Living expenses: Tree planters who work in remote locations often have to pay for their own food, accommodation, and transportation, which can significantly reduce their net income.

Overall, a tree planting job in BC can be a lucrative and fulfilling career for those who are willing to work hard and embrace the challenges of the job. With the right skills, experience, and work ethics, tree planters can earn a decent living while contributing to the conservation and restoration of the forests in BC.