Contact Us

The team behind Cribe's forest EDGe

Learn more about our roles & how to contact us by clicking on the photo tiles below

Chris
Walton
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CRIBE CEO
Chris Walton

As CEO for the Centre for Research and Innovation in the Bio-Economy (CRIBE), Chris is a management professional who brings over twenty-five years of experience specializing in government relations, strategic planning, sustainability planning, and project development to the organization.

His passion for the sector is apparent to anyone who has had the opportunity to engage with CRIBE and their work in the forest products and bio-economy sectors. Chris’ fast-paced and laser focused executive leadership supports his talented team in ensuring CRIBE is a responsive and trusted partner in the growth of the bio-economy.

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Mike
Barten
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NEXTFOR COORDINATOR
Mike Barten

Mike’s experience as an environmental science and natural resources professional in the sustainability, permitting, environmental and forestry consulting field gives him a firsthand understanding of both the value and challenges faced by the sector. He loves bringing together people who would not normally spend time with one another and facilitating conversations that lead to cross-sectoral collaborations.

Mike oversees the ongoing industry collaboration activities through Nextfor, Industry Challenge Funds, and forest innovation initiatives with a passion for the strategic thinking that drives next generation products.

Connect with Mike for information regarding NextFor by clicking his name above.

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Sarah
Bencic
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GIS INNOVATION COORDINATOR
Sarah Bencic

Sarah is a multi-disciplinary GIS and environmental professional with a great eye for cartography, design, and compelling analysis, and years of experience in the Silviculture, Forestry, and Energy sectors.

Sarah is passionate about working with our Nextfor partners to configure new tools and datasets that support geospatial decision-making with our partners in Ontario and around the world. Sarah loves the Thunder Bay region and is very excited to see positive change and growth in the space of bio-economy.


Connect with Sarah for information or assistance regarding ForestEDGE, or any geospatial projects by clicking her name above.

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Melissa
Blackwell
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PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Melissa Blackwell

Prior to joining CRIBE, Melissa completed a bachelor’s degree in Medical and Environmental Sciences, and she is committed to applying her knowledge of sustainability, ecology, and human health towards positive change in her community.

As CRIBE’s Program Coordinator she is responsible for the administration and management of CRIBE and Nextfor’s funding programs and ongoing projects, and is energized by connecting with, supporting, and learning from our growing network.

Connect with Melissa for information regarding your active & ongoing project by clicking her name above.

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Ian
Wright
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GIS TECHNICIAN
Ian Wright

Ian’s wide range of education and experience in forestry, environmental science and sustainable agriculture and GIS applications helps him support CRIBE’s ongoing GIS work.

Assisting in data processing, application development and testing, Ian’s efforts help to support the many project proponents and members of NextFor’s network with tools and information they can use to direct their own efforts.

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For Any General Inquiries Regarding Forest EDGE, Data, or for possible collaborations or projects please contact Sarah Bencic at:

sarah.bencic@cribe.ca