How to Buy a Forest
Join us in protecting West Bragg Creek’s 900 hectares of recreational forest from clear-cutting through community-driven sustainable forest management.
Our Mission
We are creating a sustainable investment fund that acquires forests to generate financial returns while preserving biodiversity and recreational access for future generations.
The Challenge We Face
🌲 Corporate Nature
Natural areas are increasingly owned by foreign equity funds, pricing out locals. Banff attractions are now largely foreign-owned, with increased prices that prevent Albertans from enjoying nature in their own province.
⏰ Imminent Threat
West Fraser plans to clear-cut 556 hectares of heavily-used recreational forest starting October 2026. This “outdoor mecca for Calgarians” faces permanent destruction of its trail network and wilderness character.
💰 Short-term vs. Long-term Value
The fleeting economic benefits of logging (less than $10M one-time harvest) pale compared to the sustained $9M annual recreational economy that benefits the region permanently.
Our Strategic Approach
A financially sustainable model that keeps West Fraser shareholders whole while preserving the forest for community use.
Team Formation
Assemble investment team, forest management experts, and community stakeholders to develop comprehensive acquisition plan.
Deal Offer
Present West Fraser with acquisition offer that satisfies shareholder requirements while transferring FMA to community management.
Critical Deadline
Without action: West Fraser begins clear-cutting operations
With success: Community-led sustainable management begins
Why This Forest Matters
🎯 Strategic Location
West Bragg Creek FMA Area “B” is Calgary’s closest outdoor recreation destination, making it irreplaceable for urban access to nature.
🚴 Recreational Infrastructure
Extensive hiking, biking, and skiing trail networks representing over $5.5M in public investment and 80,000 volunteer hours.
🌿 Biodiversity Haven
Mixed boreal forest ecosystem supporting diverse wildlife and serving critical watershed protection functions for the region.
💼 Economic Engine
Generates $9M annually in sustainable economic activity compared to one-time logging revenue. Long-term economic value far exceeds extraction.
The Forest Frontier Solution
“An investment fund that grows your wealth and our forests simultaneously.”
🏛️ Cooperative Ownership
Community-controlled forest cooperative ensuring local decision-making and long-term stewardship aligned with public interests.
💚 Sustainable Operations
Selective harvesting, eco-tourism partnerships, carbon credit generation, and recreational access fees create diversified revenue streams.
📈 Financial Returns
Target sustainable returns through forest product sales, eco-tourism, carbon credits, and recreational management while preserving forest health.
🤝 Win-Win Approach
Make West Fraser shareholders whole through fair acquisition price while ensuring Government of Alberta maintains forest management oversight.
Join the Movement
Be Part of the Future – Help Create the Forest
Whether you’re an investor, outdoor enthusiast, or community member, there’s a role for you in preserving West Bragg Creek for future generations.
Questions? Email us directly: howtobuyaforest@gmail.com