B.C. and Na̲nwak̲olas Council identify Campbell River-area site for forest model exploration

A candidate area near Campbell River has been identified for the first exploration of a proposed three-zone forest management model in British Columbia. The Province is working with Na̲nwak̲olas Council on the initiative.

The proposed approach is intended to bring land-use, stewardship and economic priorities into closer co-ordination across public forests. Its three proposed components are a Working-Forest Zone, a Multiple-Use Zone, and a Conservation and Protection Zone.

As the model is examined, the work will draw on technical, socio-economic and environmental analysis. The process is also expected to include First Nations, industry, local governments, environmental non-governmental organizations and other stakeholders.

The Province said the site was chosen after considering the First Nations partnership, the viability of the forestry sector, biodiversity and ecosystem-health objectives, local readiness, and whether activities could be explored in support of the three zones.

The Ministry of Forests and the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship are co-leading the initiative.