Category Archives: 2013-2020 Articles and Resources

Legally binding vision-goals essential

One major shortcomings in the BC forest management infrastructure is the lack of a legally binding vision and associated goals as discussed in SFM-what needs to be done to demonstrate status.  It is encouraging the Chief Forester provided a vision statement in BC Timber Goals Objectives 2017 as a response to the Auditor General questioning the lack of timber objectives. It is also encouraging goals and objectives beyond timber are being developed.  Previous Chief Foresters have developed vision statements.  However, they have never influenced the operational or strategic decision-making.  This is because they are intended as guidance and not binding on decision-makers.  If the Minister is serious about improving long-term forest stewardship in BC with the benefit of building resilient rural communities, the vision and goal statements have to be legally binding on decision-makers.

Response to Chief Forester 2017 wildfire retention guidance

Bill Bourgeois’  Response to Chief Forester wildfire salvage guidance document to be used by forest planners in developing salvage logging plans of 2017 wildfire areas.  Sound rationale, supported by science, guidance is provided.  It also contains valuable information for laypersons interested in the issue and topic.  However, concerns are noted that could jeopardize  achieving the Chief Forester objectives.

BC Forest management is not a failure!

Restoring Forestry in BC-Comments by Bill Bourgeois on the recent CCPA report by Bob Williams that BC forest management is a failure https://tinyurl.com/y9jdfvq6   Bill strongly disagrees we have failed.  He has problems accepting the proposed new model and responds to major issues outlined in the report and addresses how we can resolve those where agreement exists and others within the current model.

Will BC Government commit to wildfire adaptation strategies?

BC Government track record in dealing with catastrophic events is consistent with those of other world jurisdictions but short-term focused.  BC commitments to developing and supporting adaptation strategies are outlined in Wildfire adaptive management actions This information is relevant to 2017 wildfire season reviews being conducted.  Will Government listen?