Chowade Forest Service Road Deactivation

Overview

This project involved the deactivation of a Forest Service Road (FSR) including ditching and the removal of a 150-foot bridge, dismantled in two sections with a central pier. Across the province, changes in the forest industry have led to many FSRs being decommissioned. At GNB, we don’t just provide access solutions—we also specialize in safe and efficient road deactivations and bridge removals. Large superstructures like this require a highly skilled crew and specialized equipment, and that’s exactly what we brought to the job.

Project Details

Client: Canfor

Location: Chowade

Completion: February 17, 2026

Delivery: On time

The Challenge

Deactivating a Forest Service Road isn’t simply about taking it out of service. The project required careful planning to safely remove a large bridge structure while minimizing environmental impact. Large bridges are complex and heavy requiring an experienced crew and specialty equipment.

Our Solution

We deployed our seasoned GNB crew, including foremen, welders, operators, and labourers, all with extensive experience in these types of projects. Using a 40-ton crane and specialized trailers, we were able to dismantle the bridge safely and efficiently. Every member of the team brought knowledge and expertise, ensuring seamless project execution from start to finish.

Technical Highlights

  • Project-specific signage and on-site material disposal were provided by GNB, with all waste transported to designated facilities.
  • Concrete bridge decking was removed and preserved for potential future reuse, ensuring sustainable repurposing of materials.
  • All work was executed with environmental stewardship in mind, maintaining the surrounding ecosystem throughout the process.

Lasting Impact

Road deactivation is about more than decommissioning, it’s about reclamation. Our crew at GNB helped return the land to its natural state, mitigating erosion and minimizing long-term environmental impacts. The project leaves a lasting positive footprint, combining safe infrastructure removal with responsible land stewardship.

Conclusion

This project highlights GNB’s ability to handle complex Forest Service Road deactivations with skill, precision, and environmental care. From heavy bridge removal to thoughtful land reclamation, our team delivered a seamless, on-time project that benefits both our client and the surrounding environment. It’s a great example of how experience, teamwork, and the right equipment come together to get the job done right.