Forsberg’s life in the Nechako Valley is a picturesque tapestry woven with music, laughter, and a deep commitment to his roles as a rancher, musician and pastor.
Originally from Red Deer, Alberta, Forsberg made the pivotal decision to move to Willowvale, near Vanderhoof in 1993 to purchase his grandparents' farm, a cherished piece of land that has been in the family since 1966.
Living on the farm with his wife, Forsberg has raised four children and two foster children, all of whom are actively involved in local 4H programs.
"It is a great community, and the farming and ranching community in the area is really great," he said.
The natural beauty of the Nechako Valley deeply resonates with him and his family. "When we travel, we are struck by the beauty of our province and neighbouring areas and are also struck by the fact that we are very blessed to live where we do in the Nechako Valley."
In addition to his work on the farm, Forsberg is employed by Stephen Brothers Contracting, a local business he praises as an “excellent community supporter.”
His commitment to the community extends beyond his professional life; he also serves as a lay pastor, preaching once a month at a non-denominational home church group, where he enjoys the sense of fellowship and connection that comes with small-town life.
In his downtime, Forsberg enjoys spending time with his horses, engaging in leatherwork, and continuing to explore his love for music.
His journey back to the family farm was rooted in a lifelong dream. Dave explained that he had the opportunity to purchase his grandparents' farm. His grandparents moved to the valley in 1966 from North Dakota and bought the land where they now live. He had the chance to work alongside them and eventually buy the farm himself.
"All I wanted to do from the time I was big enough to remember was follow a cow around. So it was an easy decision o stay back and we love where we are.”
Earlier this month, Forsberg celebrated a milestone in his musical career with the release of his latest album, Where the River Meets the Road, on October 6 at the Grande Rio Theatre in Vanderhoof.
Reflecting on the experience, he noted that recording the album at Last Spike Recording Studio in Fort Fraser truly connected it to the local community. Collaborating with local musicians enhanced the project, enabling him to merge his passion for music with his community ties.
