BRKH Success Story

Introduction

Nestled in the picturesque Robson Valley, BRKH Custom Woodworks, locally known as BARK,
has become a beacon of high-quality custom wood products. The name BRKH is derived from
the four drainages in the Dunster Community Forest Footprint. The Baker, the Raush, the Kiwa
and Horsey. Since its inception in 2019, BRKH has been committed to community
development and sustainable practices, leveraging the rich timber resources of the valley to
produce exceptional wood products.

Founding and Growth

Larry, a long-time resident of the Robson Valley and the Board Chair at the Dunster Community
Forest, saw the need for a local timber mill to add value to the timber harvested from the
community forest. In 2019, an opportunity arose to purchase an existing operation, Syncra
Wood Products, in McBride. Despite the machinery being outdated and the inventory low,
Larry and his team seized the chance to create something valuable for the community. Over
the years, significant investments have been made to upgrade machinery and infrastructure,
bringing the mill to a state where it can operate efficiently and reliably.

Community Integration and Challenges

BRKH is deeply rooted in the Robson Valley, both geographically and philosophically. The
decision to establish the mill in McBride was driven by a desire to support local economic
development and utilize the high-quality timber available in the area. This local focus, however,
comes with challenges such as difficult logging terrain and higher transportation costs due to
the valley’s relative isolation from major centers.

Looking Ahead

BRKH is poised for growth as it continues to stabilize and expand its operations. Future plans
include further investment in machinery, exploring new markets, and potentially taking over
additional local sawmill operations to secure the timber supply chain. The Robson Valley’s
unique combination of natural beauty, quality timber, and a supportive community provides a
strong foundation for BRKH’s continued success.

BRKH stands as a testament to what can be achieved with vision, perseverance, and
community support. From humble beginnings and significant challenges, the mill has grown
into a reliable business that not only produces high-quality wood products but also contributes
to the economic and social fabric of the Robson Valley. As BRKH looks to the future, it remains
committed to its roots and the community it serves, embodying the spirit of resilience and
innovation.