Our Wildland Private Nature Reserve at Siwash Lake

Taking care of the planet is our guiding philosophy. While crafting our world-class eco-lodge and luxury guest ranch, we've always focused on sustainability — striving to be true stewards of the land.

Since we purchased this pristine piece of raw wilderness over thirty years ago, it has been our mantra to stay in harmony with the surrounding environment.

At Siwash Lake, we care immensely about the environment as much as we take great care of our guests. You'll sense a delightful synergy with Nature while you are here and you’ll appreciate the peace and calm that this magical place exudes.

All whom visit this unique eco-lodge are in awe at living so close to the natural world, which invigorates the mind, body and spirit in extraordinary ways. Such gifts are a privilege in today’s world, and are why everyone at Siwash Lake sees themselves as caretakers of the land.

We take our responsibility seriously because we know that in return, the land will continue to nurture all those who visit for generations to come. For instance, over 90% of our electricity is harvested from the sun — just one initiative of many — in our efforts to operate in a highly sustainable manner.

The National Geographic Society recognized our hard work a few years ago and welcomed Siwash Lake into the folds of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World: it was an outstanding collection of global leaders in the realm of responsible tourism.

But Nature's lessons can be really hard sometimes, especially when a massive forest fire sweeps through. Devastated at first, by the damage to our wild paradise, we've learned to accept that the land is forever changing. The fire was a severe example of climate change and how humans have mismanaged the land. Now, in the wake of the fire, we are bearing down on conservation efforts to preserve all the remaining refugia (lush areas that escaped the flames), and are focusing on reforestation in the fire affected areas.

We are committed to taking care of both people and the planet. We created the BC Wildland Ecology Centre, a not-for-profit society that serves to showcase and protect the sensitive eco-system created by wildfire in British Columbia. The Society's headquarters are based on our unique Wildland Private Nature Reserve, which encompasses 80 acres adjacent to the Siwash Lake home base.

"Nature is our Goddess,
And the wilderness,
Our Cathedral."

Fireweed in a black enchanted snag forest

Wildland Ecology Centre

British Columbia's Cariboo is rich with natural resources, Indigenous culture, and history. In 2017, much of the region was struck by severe wildfire.

As such, the BC Wildland Ecology Centre is headquartered in the heart of a rare and sensitive, post-fire biome at our Private Wildland Nature Reserve.

As an Ecotourism Social Enterprise that operates in a highly unique setting, this Society advocates for the environs and for future generations.

While remaining dedicated to sustainable and innovative processes, the BC Wildland Ecology Centre functions to steward the environment and preserve the past.

Its purpose is to protect, study, and showcase the sensitive ecosystem created by wildfire in BC, through conservation, education, reforestation, and responsible tourism activities.

It also functions to connect stakeholders, government and First Nations while facilitating best use of the land moving forward, and preserving long term integrity of the ecosystem.