Update on British Columbia Coastal Rainforests
Copyright 2001 EarthVision Environmental News
November 16, 2001
VICTORIA, British Columbia, November 16, 2001 - The newly elected British Columbia government has reviewed the preliminary land use agreement reached in April 2001 and has committed to work cooperatively with all groups to implement the key recommendations and complete the land use plan by March 2003. First Nations, industry, environmental groups, communities and others have agreed to work with government to complete land and resource management planning within this timeframe. Discussions will resume in December.
Key actions will:
Define precise boundaries for phase one protection areas by December 2001, including habitat for the white kermode bear. Lands will be formally designated in January 2002, after endorsement by First Nations.
Continue to suspend development in key ecological areas to prevent harvesting and road building until land use decisions are made.
Strengthen First Nations’ role in planning discussions, and develop agreements for a stronger role in forestry, and co-management of protected areas. Appoint an independent Information Team to advise on economic, social and environmental considerations for ecosystem-based forestry and other issues. A committee has been established to appoint and manage the Team, with representatives from government, First Nations, environmental groups, communities and industry.
Define ecosystem-based forest management, including economic, social and environmental factors to sustain healthy ecosystems and communities.
The Central Coast, a remote area of almost five million hectares (12 million acres), has drawn international attention for its vast rainforests, pristine watersheds, old growth trees, and habitat for bears, salmon and other species. These forests are also vital to First Nations and other communities, which rely on forestry for jobs and economic development. In April, all groups reached consensus on a preliminary plan to conserve and manage coastal rainforests, meeting local and international interests.
Submitted By:
British Columbia Ministry of Forests