George Brcko Moving on from General Manager Position with Wells Gray Community Forest

After an impressive 26-year career in forestry in the North Thompson Valley, George Brcko is concluding his tenure as the Wells Gray Community Forest (WGCF) General Manager, marking the end of an era for both the organization and the wider North Thompson Valley.

Since the inception of the WGCF in 2005, George has been an integral part of its growth as the General Manager, joining forces with contributors like Ted Richardson, Dave Meehan, Richard Christenson and Wes Bieber. Since the beginning, George has served as the primary representative of the WGCF, guiding it through significant development and change. His deep understanding of the WGCF land base, combined with his strategic approach to forest management and stewardship, has shaped the outcomes celebrated by the local community forest today. George’s expertise comes from decades of work in both forest development and silviculture, and with experience across major licensees, smaller tenures and the community forest.

George’s commitment to community forests has extended beyond the North Thompson Valley and between 2014 and 2019, he served on the BC Community Forest Association Board, including a term as President. At their 2025 Conference and AGM, the Association recognized George’s extraordinary service with a Certificate of Recognition. The award highlighted his dedication to the BC Community Forest Association Board of Directors, exceptional leadership as manager of Wells Gray Community Forest, and his contributions to the sustainability and growth of community forests throughout British Columbia.

Kim Muddiman, Treasurer of the WGCFC, acknowledged Brcko’s sustained leadership and unwavering commitment, noting, “His involvement in community forestry has left a lasting impact on the organization and local area.”

Sabine Cooperman, Vice President of the WGCFC noted that “the Wells Gray Community Forest was not a job for George, but a love. We see it in the trees that are growing, the profits that continue to support programs and organization within the community, and that ginormous smile that he always had when he had a day in the field!!”

Brent Buck, President of the WGCF noted that “It’s with a heavy heart that we bid farewell to George. Our best wishes are extended as he embarks on his next chapter, leaving behind a valuable legacy that will benefit community forestry for years to come.”

George is taking a new role with the Ministry of Forests in Kamloops but will assist as Casey Macauley transitions in to the General Manager role. George also intends to remain active in the Clearwater area, enjoying all the outdoor recreation opportunities he has grown to love in the local area.

You can find out more about WGCF's new General Manager here: Casey Macaulay Appointed General Manager