B.C. is launching a new website for people to provide input on the future of forestry in the province as part of a review to determine how to make the sector more viable and sustainable.
The work is being conducted by the Provincial Forest Advisory Council and is intended to build upon previous processes, such as the Old Growth Strategic Review.
"The discussions we are undertaking are meant to provide the council with new ideas, identify barriers and share examples of new initiatives that could support the types of shifts needed in B.C.'s forest sector," said Garry Merkel, co-chair of the council. Merkel also co-chaired the Old Growth Strategic Review board.
The council is seeking input from both technical experts and local communities. Phase 1 of the council's mandate also involves targeted conversations with First Nations, subject matter experts, industry, and government ministries.
This engagement will continue through September, and topics covered will include the current state of the forestry sector and global markets, the vision and requirements for co-governance with First Nations, how land-based planning can be improved and how to maintain a viable and sustainable forest products economy.
The public can learn more about the process and provide input at the . An interim report is expected sometime in the fall, with a final version that includes recommendations by the end of the year.
