This is the first in a series of speaker profiles for the Nature of Forest Weekend (July 18/19). Mitchell will lead a site workshop at 364 Mill Road on July 18th from 9:30-11:30am.
Many people will remember his 2023 presentation, part of the Forbes Hall Health Committee's "Let's Talk About Smoke" speaker series.
Bio: Mitchell Sherrin served as a firefighter with Salt Spring Island Fire Rescue for 22 years, reaching the rank of Assistant Chief of Fire Prevention before he retired in 2025. He's been teaching FireSmart concepts since 2005, and he's served on wildfire deployments in 2017, 2018 and 2023. Mitchell also served as the Deputy of Emergency Management Salt Spring Island from 2022-2026. Now he mostly works on his hobby farm with sheep, chickens, a garden, and a very active dog.
Ecological FireSmart: FireSmart is fundamentally a way of thinking about the landscape. While wildfire is a natural part of forest ecology, fire is obviously less desirable around human values. FireSmart ideas can help us reduce wildfire risk to our properties. It can involve simple actions like yard and home maintenance, and choices around landscaping and renovations. Simple actions can make a difference to reduce wildfire risk at your home.
For more information about the Nature of Forests Weekend please email CCR@thetis.net