Jeremy Reid

Tim's Bio

Tim Patterson was born Morris Coutlee who is a member of the Lower Nicola Indian Band that belongs to the Scw̓éxmx (“People of the Creeks”) a branch of the Nlaka’pamux (Thompson) Nation of the Interior Salish speaking peoples of British Columbia Canada. Tim grew up in Revelstoke where he began his passion for mountains. Tim developed Zuc’min Guiding by combining his Academic, Indigenous and Guiding knowledge together to advance Indigenous Knowledge of the mountains.

Zuc’min Guiding

Ben's Bio

Ben Cress is an environmental enthusiast with a passion for sustainability and conservation. Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science and over 10 years of hands-on experience in the energy sector, Ben has led numerous initiatives including emissions reductions, waste management, water management and biodiversity conservation.

His expertise includes environmental regulations and compliance and finding innovative solutions to complex environmental challenges. Ben is passionate about reconnecting people with nature and changing how we value the services and wisdom nature offers.

Keyera 

Dave's Bio

Dave Critchley is an engaging and experienced Senior Researcher with a demonstrated history of working in the higher education industry and is recognized internationally through various awards and honours. He is skilled in remote expedition research, educating adult learners, public speaking, rare species monitoring, sustainable development, and wetland restoration.

Past and present collaborations include all levels of Canadian government; industry, academic organizations, not-for-profits, and volunteer organizations. As a Royal Canadian Geographical Society Fellow and author celebrating and exploring Canada, he maintains three professional designations (RP.Bio., P.Biol., P.Ag.,) and a Master’s Degree in Ecosystem Restoration.

NAIT Conservation Biology

Elder's Bio

Elder Heather Poitras, a member of the Sawridge First Nation (Treaty 8), is currently serving as an Elder for her Nation. Elder Heather grew up by the Kehewin Cree Nation (Treaty 6). Proud of both her First Nation and Métis culture, she has dedicated her 25+ year federal career to Indigenous awareness and culture. 

As the Elder-In-Residence at the Northern Forestry Centre (NRCAN) in Edmonton, she also played an instrumental role in the establishment of the We Walk Together Forward – Indigenous Learning Centre at the Northern Forestry Centre, Edmonton, Alberta.

Elder Heather Poitras, a descendant of Big Bear, comes from a long line of leaders. Her chapan (Cree for great-grandfather) J.F. Dion, one of the founders of the Métis Nation of Alberta, ensured that the Métis in Alberta had land base. The only province to do so.  

Elder Heather strives to ensure that her people, the original people of this country, are included in every aspect of society. She has been dedicated to creating awareness of Canada’s true history, to help with the healing process of reconciliation, and to improve relationships.

Northern Forestry Centre