Our Team



Zanzibar is an industry leader in British Columbia silviculture





Meet some of the Zanzibar Team


Co-Founders

Tony Harrison and Gord Saunders


Noah Lawson


General Manager

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    Noah started with Zanzibar as a tree planter in 2010, dedicating several seasonal years to working in the east Kootenay area. Progressing through roles, he transitioned to leading crews, supervising projects, and contributing to the survey team. In 2019, Noah took on the coordination of larger programs in the southern interior, culminating in his appointment as the General Manager in Zanzibar's front office in the fall of 2022.


    With many years of experience in the silviculture industry, Noah has amassed a comprehensive skill set to help manage Zanzibar’s operations. His expertise spans tree planting, crew and contract management, block layout, timber cruising, silviculture surveys, slash burning, herbicide vegetation management, and provision of first aid services. Noah has obtained certifications such as occupational first aid level 1 and 3, S100 wildfire suppression, wildlife danger tree assessment, and resource road driver training. 


    Noah currently serves on the board of the Western Forestry Contractors Association showcasing his commitment to industry leadership and collaboration.


Sylvia Fenwick-Wilson


Operations Manager
Coastal & Cariboo

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Dale Greidanus


Operations Manager

Kootenays

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    Dale started in the silviculture industry as a tree planter in the late 1990s. Her association with Zanzibar began in the year 2000, marking over two decades of valuable experience in the field.


    Currently serving as Zanzibar's Health and Safety Manager, Dale has been at the helm of managing crews in the Kootenays since 2003. Her expertise extends to ensuring the well-being of our teams while operating in diverse and challenging environments.


    Dale holds the position of an Internal Safety Auditor with the BC Forest Safety Council. Additionally, she is an accredited silviculture surveyor, starting in 2009 and dedicating her experience to the East Kootenay area. Her certifications include danger tree assessor and occupational first aid level 3 attendant.


    What sets Dale apart is her multifaceted role as both a seasoned silviculture professional and a meticulous safety auditor. Her comprehensive knowledge, coupled with hands-on experience, not only enhances the safety protocols within Zanzibar but also contributes significantly to the success of our projects. Dale's commitment to ensuring a safe working environment aligns seamlessly with our company's core values and goals.


Jim Thurston


Operations Manager
Coastal & Kootenays


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Grant Campbell


Operations Manager

Cascades/Okanagan


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    Grant started with Zanzibar in 2007, having accrued prior experience with various British Columbia planting companies. His entry into the silviculture industry and Zanzibar marked the beginning of a professional trajectory that has now spanned several years.



    Starting as a planter, Grant ascended through the ranks within Zanzibar, progressing from a Foreperson to a Project Lead, and presently holds the role of Operations Manager overseeing the Cascade/Okanagan region. His diverse roles within the company showcase a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of operational dynamics.



    Grant brings to the table not only industry-specific knowledge but also a unique blend of skills derived from his background as an accomplished climber and musician. These seemingly unrelated experiences have instilled in him qualities of hard work, discipline, and determination, which he incorporates into his role at Zanzibar.



    What distinguishes Grant is his ability to navigate and excel in challenging situations, a trait shared by many in Zanzibar's management team. He finds purpose and fulfillment in orchestrating successful plans that ensure a smooth and efficient operation. Grant's holistic approach, combining industry expertise with diverse life experiences, contributes significantly to the dynamic and effective functioning of Zanzibar.



Andrew Steeves


Operations Manager

South Cariboo

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    Andrew has worked for Zanzibar since 2018 and has been contributing to the silviculture industry since 2008 as a tree planter, foreperson, and supervisor. Currently serving as an Operations Manager, he oversees contracts in 100 Mile House and Williams Lake, focusing on Zanzibar's West Fraser and Ministry of Forests (MOF) contracts in the region.


    Andrew holds the designation of a Registered Forest Technologist (RFT) and is an Accredited Silviculture Surveyor (SAS). His certifications include S100, ATV training, and OFA Level 1, highlighting his commitment to safety and operational proficiency.


    From a contract management perspective, Andrew places a strong emphasis on the well-being and safety of all workers under his responsibility. His focus extends to ensuring operational efficiency, the goal of a fair working environment, and providing opportunities for workers to be successful.


Mark Ratke


Project Lead

North Cariboo

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    Mark started in the silviculture industry in 1996 as a tree planter and then tree checker. He started with Zanzibar in 2002 and has dedicated a significant portion of my professional career working with them.


    Mark is a Project Lead and Survey Lead for contracts in the Fraser Valley and Quesnel/Nazko areas, working on contracts with West Fraser and the Ministry of Forests.. Over the years, Mark has had the opportunity to work in nearly every area and contract for Zanzibar.


    Mark is a certified silviculture surveyor and uses his experience to lead contracts in the Quesnel region. He has many certifications including resource road driving, chainsaw training (Enform 1 ticket), S100, WHMIS, danger tree assessor, ATV/UTV operational training and occupational first aid level with transport endorsement. Mark has experience in chainsaw operations, including fall and burn, pipeline slashing, and fire mitigation.


    Mark’s diverse skill set and extensive experience positions him as a seasoned professional capable of managing silviculture operations for Zanzibar.


Jody Klotz


Project Lead

Cascades

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    Jody started in the silviculture industry as a tree planter in 1999. She joined Zanzibar in 2002 and has amassed 18 years of management experience over this time period. Currently Jody is a Project Lead in the Cascade.


    Throughout the majority of my planting and management tenure, Jody has been actively involved in the forestry sector in Merritt, contributing 80% of my time in this region. This extended period in Merritt reflects a deep-rooted understanding of the local landscape and operational dynamics.


    Jody is an accredited silviculture surveyor and brings a specialized skill set to her role, enhancing the precision and effectiveness of survey projects that Zanzibar holds. 

    Over the course of Jody’s forestry career she has acquired a broad range of skills and knowledge which contributes significantly to the success of Zanzibar.



Jeni Christie


Project Lead

 South Cariboo

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    Jeni began her career in reforestation in 1990, initially as a tree planter, and joined Zanzibar's planting crew in 1993. Jeni began surveying in 1994, she then earned her surveyor accreditation in 1998.

    With nearly two decades experience as a crew boss for tree planting and supervisor for survey crews in remote coastal and mountainous regions of southern BC, Jeni has been an integral part of Zanzibar since 2019, serving as a Project Lead for both planting and survey projects. Beyond fieldwork, she plays a pivotal role in human resources and is an active member of the JOHSC, the joint occupational health and safety committee for Zanzibar and Cariboo Carbon Solutions.



    Jeni's diverse skill set positions her as a valuable asset within both Zanzibar and Cariboo Carbon Solutions. In her role as a senior surveyor for CCS, she has contributed significantly to various wildfire restoration projects in the Cariboo and Cascade regions of BC. Notably, her strengths lie in silviculture prescriptions, encompassing eco-typing, initial reconnaissance, mapping, and planting prescriptions.

    Jeni's multifaceted involvement showcases her adaptability and proficiency across various domains, making her an indispensable contributor to the success of Zanzibar and Cariboo Carbon Solutions.


Sandra Provonost


Project Lead

Cascades

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    Sandra started tree planting in Quebec in 2000 and continued working in the silviculture industry before joining Zanzibar in 2009.


    Sandra began working as a foreperson for Zanzibar in 2016 and has been a project lead since 2019 on contracts in the Cascades and Okanagan. Sandra works predominantly operating in the Cascade region, my responsibilities are expanding to include being the lead in Princeton for BCTS (British Columbia Timber Sales) and some work with Tolko.


    Holding a survey ticket, Sandra brings a specialized skill set to her role, contributing to the precision and efficiency of survey contracts. Sandra is organized and efficient in her management skills and has many years of experience accessing difficult terrain. She values teamwork and has a strong relationship with the planters that she works with.


    Sandra’s many years of experience and leadership roles at Zanzibar, reflect her dedication to the tree planting industry and my commitment to ensuring successful forestry projects in various regions.


Molly Florian


Project Lead

North Cariboo

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    Molly started working in silviculture in 2013 and joined the Zanzibar team in 2020.


    Currently she serves as a Project Lead, Molly oversees operations in both Nazko and Vancouver Island.


    Molly stands out for her caring and sensitive nature, coupled with strong organizational and communication skills. Her attention to detail and safety-oriented approach make her a valuable asset. Above all, Molly's genuine love for her job reflects in her commitment to excellence within the Zanzibar team.


Anabel Cairns


Project Lead

South Cariboo


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    Anabel started working in the silviculture industry in 2005 as a tree planter and joined the Zanzibar team in 2007. Currently serving as the Project Lead in 100 Mile House for the West Fraser contract, she has extensive experience that spans over 10 years in the East Kootenays and contracts all around BC.


    Anabel’s educational background includes a BSc in biology and complemented by certifications such as OFA Level 1 and Transportation Endorsement, and a Resource Road driving certificate. Hailing from a family deeply rooted in forestry, my journey into tree planting began when my parents met on the job, and my sister introduced me to the field during my first year planting in Alberta. What initially started as a means to pay for university quickly transformed into a passion for nurturing robust and healthy forests.



Scott Rutledge


Project Lead

Golden


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Silver Wyatt


Health and Safety Coordinator



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Andrew Packam


Project Lead

Okanagan

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    Andrew started working with Zanzibar in 2019, bringing a wealth of experience from the planting realm since 2008.


    Currently serving as a Project Lead/Supervisor, Andrew oversees operations in many regions, including Vancouver Island, North Okanagan, and East Kootenays.


    Andrew holds a BA in Environmental Studies and Canadian History, demonstrating a solid academic foundation in areas relevant to his work in the environmental sector.

     

Billy Spensley


Project Lead

Kootenays



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    Billy started as a tree planter in Quesnel in 1995 and transitioned to a supervisory role in 1998. In 2007, he founded Tough City Silviculture Ltd, a SAFE-certified company operating on the west coast. 


    He joined Zanzibar in 2009 as a foreperson in Merritt and is now the Project Lead in Kimberley BC. His accreditations include Accredited Silviculture Surveyor, Danger Tree Assessor-Forest Activities, Level 3 OFA, Certified Beetle Prober-MOF, Small Employer Occupational Health and Safety Certificate-BCFSC, SAFE Certification-BCFSC, Resource Road Driver’s Certificate, Small Non-Pleasure Marine Vessel Operators Permit, and Marine Radio Operators Permit. 


    Diversity defines my experience—I've worked in numerous roles, from planter and foreman to project manager, silviculture surveyor, and business owner. My versatility allows me to assume managerial roles in various capacities, while I still enjoy and excel at working in the field.



Sean Ardis



Lead Faller

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    Sean Ardis has been the Lead Falling Supervisor for Zanzibar/Cariboo Carbon Solutions for 16 years, and has been active as a Danger Tree Assessor/Faller since the inception of the WLDTC program.


    His specialty is logistics and planning; determining how worker access and tree delivery are conducted, usually reducing or eliminating costly helicopter time by building UTV tails and temporary bridges. He’s expert at reading terrain and providing cost comparisons between helicopter and UTV access.


    Sean has also developed a unique, comprehensive Danger Tree Assessment strategy and reporting system that provides workers, supervisors and clients with thorough coverage and excellent documentation.

    Most Zanzibar/CCS Fallers have been hired trained and mentored by Sean. They are affectionately known in the industry as “The Gentlemen Fallers.”


    Sean says, “I’m most proud of the work we do towards worker safety, eliminating hazards that would otherwise render the work untenable. I go to work with a chainsaw in one hand and a laptop in the other. That’s pretty cool!”

Yorgo Moundrouka



Lead Faller

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    Yorgo started with Zanzibar in 2014 after working with A&G for 25 years. He has held roles ranging from operations, foreperson, treerunner and all-around contract responsibilities.


    Yorgo has experience managing slashing and fuel programs, has led fire crews, and maintained a lasting relationship with Wildfire Consulting Ltd for over 20 years. He has been deployed on front line fire operations as a Danger Tree Assessor and Faller for the BC Wildfire Service.


    Yorgo holds a 3-year degree in Terrain & Water Resource Sciences from Sir Sandford Fleming, focusing on land reclamation and water management. He has been a BC-certified faller since 2003 and is currently in the third year as a qualified falling supervisor. Additionally, Yorgo is certified to climb trees and has expanded his expertise into cone/seed harvesting, actively participating in collections. 


    Yorgo’s association with the BC Wildfire Service dates back to 1998, where he has been actively involved in fire management. He has served as a fire warden for the Penticton Zone and continues to contribute to firefighting efforts.


Mariska Van Der Kraats



Lead Faller

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    Mariska started with Zanzibar in the fall of 2020 when she took a role as a faller, engaging in DTAF work in the Kootenays. Subsequently, during the spring planting season of 2021, she transitioned to the Cariboo region, where she was introduced to the planting world. The exposure to tree planting has opened doors for Mariska to explore different areas of Zanzibar's operations, where she has taken on roles in planting and surveying.


    Mariska adds her experience to Zanzibar Danger Tree Assessment and Falling crew, where she works as a danger tree assessor and faller. During the summer and fall months she works as a silviculture surveyor on Zanzibar's various contracts across the province.


    Mariska has accreditations including DTAF (certified danger tree assessor and faller), accredited silviculture surveyor, and Occupational First Aid Level 3 (OFA 3).


    Mariska has a commitment to fostering collaboration between the falling crew and other divisions of the company. Drawing on her diverse experiences in falling, planting, and surveying, she strives to provide a unique perspective on how divisions can work together efficiently and learn from each other. Additionally, Mariska’s journey has been accompanied by the companionship of three dogs, adding a distinctive touch to her Zanzibar experience.


Dan Track



Senior Surveyor, Cariboo


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    Dan Track is Zanzibar Holdings Ltd.ʼs lead systems support manager and has been with the team since 1993.  Dan now manages Zanzibar's forest information systems as well, including SNAP, Phoenix, and Plant Wizard, and is responsible for the vetting and uploading of spatial and tabular data into provincial databases like RESULTS and ECAS. Danʼs hard work and diligence led provincially-recognized silviculture expert Colin Hegan to praise our RESULTS updates. Dan has been an accredited silviculture surveyor since 2008 and brings a vast knowledge of forest surveys. He also manages the 100 Mile House survey crew throughout the spring to fall seasons.


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