FAQS | Trusted Canada Tree Planting

Getting Started

When should I apply, and when will I hear back?

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Spots fill quickly, so it’s best to apply early in the year. We welcome motivated, prepared applicants who understand both the challenges and rewards of tree planting.

Most applicants hear back within two weeks, though not everyone will get a follow-up due to high volumes.

Can non-Canadian citizens apply?

Absolutely. They’ll just need:

A valid Canadian work permit (we don’t sponsor permits)
A Canadian SIN
A Canadian bank account

We’re glad to consider international applicants, especially those who can commit to multiple seasons.

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Do I need experience?

Nope. Experience isn’t required. What matters most is fitness, endurance, willingness to work outdoors in any weather, and a good attitude.

All new planters get on-the-job training to help them start strong.

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Can I choose where I plant or apply with a friend?

You are welcome to note your preferred location and list friends on your application. We do our best to accommodate requests, but we can’t make any guarantees.

Living & Camp Life

What’s camp life like?

Most camps are remote bush camps. Planters live in their own tents and share access to:

Mess tents for meals and hanging out
Shower trailers and portable toilets
Drying tents for wet gear
Cook trailers for meal prep

Is food provided?

Yes! Three delicious, nutritious meals are prepared daily by on-site cooks. All meals are high-calorie and designed to fuel your body for the demands of planting.

✔️ Breakfast is served early in the morning

✔️ Lunch is packed by planters to take into the field

✔️ Dinner is a hot meal after work

A $25/day camp fee covers food and camp amenities.

What should I bring?

Planters are responsible for their own gear. That means first-year planters should expect upfront costs, but good gear pays off—it’ll keep you more comfortable and more productive.

Is there Wi-Fi or cell service in camp?

Not usually, but Outland provides Starlink Wi-Fi when cell service isn’t available. Bandwidth is limited though, so we only use it for things like checking messages and staying in touch with family.

Can I bring my own vehicle?

Sometimes. Camps are often down rough bush roads, so vehicles must be suitable and cleared with camp supervisors ahead of time.

Are dogs allowed in camp?

We love dogs, but not every camp is dog-friendly, especially those with helicopter access or high-risk forestry contracts.

If you’re hoping to bring a dog, mention it during your interview. Approvals are case-by-case and come with strict guidelines to keep everyone (including your pup) safe.

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Work Expectations

What are the physical demands of tree planting?

Tree planting is tough work. Planters need:

solid cardiovascular fitness and stamina
strength for repetitive lifting and motion
the grit to handle long days in rugged terrain and all weather

We encourage those considering this job to take part in pre-season training. It helps a lot and makes those first weeks a lot easier.

What does a typical planting day look like?

Schedules can shift with weather or logistics, but here’s an example of a standard planting day at Outland:

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6:00 AM – breakfast + pack lunch
Travel to the block (by truck or helicopter, depending on contract)
Safety meeting + instructions from your crew boss
9–10 hours of planting‍
5:00–6:00 PM – back to camp for a hot dinner and downtime

How will I be paid?

Planters are paid piece rate (per tree). Rates depend on things like terrain, tree size, and site prep. You’ll always know the tree price for your block before planting begins.

Health & Safety

What safety training is provided?

Safety is built into the job from day one. Before the season, you’ll complete pre-season online training. Once in camp, you’ll go through in-person orientation to cover safe procedures, hazards, and emergency protocols. Crews also start each day with a safety briefing to make sure everyone’s ready for the block.

Are workers covered by workers’ compensation?

Yes, all workers are covered by provincial workers’ compensation programs. This provides medical care, wage replacement, and rehab support if you’re injured or get sick on the job.

What if I have an injury, allergy, or dietary restriction?

Tree planting is physically demanding. If you have a pre-existing injury, talk about it in your interview so we can see if accommodations are possible.

For serious allergies (like anaphylaxis), you’ll need to bring your own medication (EpiPens, etc) and inform your supervisor. It’s important to understand that remote camps don’t always have immediate access to medical care.

On-site cooks can accommodate most diets, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and others.

Company Culture & Advancement

What’s Outland’s planting culture like?

Professional, community-driven, and built on hard work. We’ve been planting since 1985 and now put over 40 million trees in the ground each year. Camps are run to be safe and efficient so planters can do their best and enjoy the crew along the way.

Do you hire experienced planters or managers from other companies?

Yes, experienced planters and managers are welcome to apply. We work hard to maintain a strong camp culture, so we’ll ask you for professional references from previous tree planting employers to assess experience, work ethic, and fit.

Are there opportunities beyond planting?

Yes! Outland is part of Dexterra Group, which means planters can:

Keep working in forestry
Move into leadership or support roles
Explore careers in facilities, accommodations, food services, and more

Whether you want seasonal work or long-term growth, there are many paths to build on your experience and create a rewarding career.

Logistics & Travel

When does the season start and end?

Planting usually starts in May, as soon as the weather allows. Ontario contracts often wrap up in early July, while Western planting can run into August. To be considered, you need to be available for the full season.

Is transportation to camp covered?

Planters are responsible for getting to the designated meeting location (usually located in a city centre) at the start of the season and home again after the contract ends. During the contract, Outland provides all transportation to and from camp, including rides for scheduled days off.

Frequently asked questions.

Is working with Outland the right move for you?