Jackson Bonn, a resident of Belleville, Ontario, shared his firsthand account of a day in the life of a tree planter. The morning began with a hint of smoke in the air from nearby wildfires as Bonn gathered his team for a safety briefing. Each planter was assigned a specific area to work on, planting tree seedlings in a recently harvested spruce clearcut.
Throughout the 12-hour shift, Bonn diligently supervised the planters, ensuring they had enough seedlings and were planting them accurately. Despite his busy schedule, he managed to plant some trees himself, comparing his movements to those of an Olympic swimmer, aiming for fluidity and precision.
As a seasoned tree planter, Bonn highlighted the annual routine of planting thousands of trees per day to help regenerate the forests after logging and fires. The job is physically demanding, with planters typically earning a piece rate per tree planted, ranging from 1,500 to 5,000 trees daily.
Reflecting on his journey as a tree planter since starting as an 18-year-old, Bonn emphasized the camaraderie and hard work that define the job. While acknowledging the job’s challenges, he also expressed a desire to pursue other ambitions beyond tree planting.
Having taken a break from tree planting in 2025 to explore a different path on the East Coast, Bonn appreciated the opportunity to recharge both physically and mentally. However, he felt a pull back to the bush, recognizing the unique connection and sense of community that tree planting provides.
Despite his evolving aspirations, Bonn found fulfillment in mentoring new planters and embracing the deeply Canadian tradition of tree planting. He cherished the bond with fellow planters and the profound connection to nature and labor that the job offers.
Looking ahead, Bonn acknowledged that his identity as a tree planter would endure as a symbol of pride and growth. His journey in the wilderness had expanded his horizons and instilled a profound appreciation for the Canadian landscape, fueling his ongoing passion for tree planting.
For now, Bonn remains committed to his love for tree planting, immersing himself in the bush to nurture both literal and metaphorical roots, continuing his journey in a profession that has shaped his life in profound ways.
