For more than 25 years, Dan and Sandi Wiebe have guided Box Lake Lumber, a family-founded operation established in 1985. Following two devastating mill fires in the 1990s, Dan assumed a primary operational role in 1998 and, together with Sandi, rebuilt the business with a focus on Western Red Cedar split rail fencing and value-added production, utilizing low-grade and previously unused timber. As part of this innovation, Dan designed and built a bale machine that compresses mulch byproduct into compact 4×4-foot cubes, improving efficiency in transportation, storage, and retail distribution.
Their shared leadership has strengthened both the business and its contribution to the economic and social fabric of Nakusp. Under their direction, the family-run business has become a stable employer, supporting more than 25 local jobs, along with contractors and related economic activity across the region. In the wake of major industry closures, Box Lake Lumber has played an important role in sustaining employment and helping stabilize the local economy.
Dan and Sandi continue to navigate shifting forestry policies, fibre shortages, and market pressures by adopting innovative approaches, including the use of wildfire-affected timber and low-waste production practices. They are also active contributors to community life, supporting organizations, events, and families. Their work reflects a long-standing commitment to local employment, community resilience, and responsible stewardship.
