FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sierra Club BC Forest Campaigner Joelle Burnie offers the following statement in response to today’s announcement of B.C.’s ‘Working Forest Landscape Model’:

“While Sierra Club BC is pleased to hear that the province wants to continue implementation of the paradigm shift outlined in the Old Growth Strategic Review, we are concerned that this proposed forestry model will create a new barrier for protecting the last old-growth forests.

“A ‘Working Forest Model’ tied to an unrealistic timber target and without clear guardrails in place or clarity on how much forest will be zoned for conservation, could give industry a free pass to clearcut old growth to the brink. It could also reduce habitats to fragments that are too small, too isolated, or too degraded to support biodiversity.

“This process cannot support safeguarding biodiversity and ecosystems without implementing other key recommendations of the Old Growth Strategic Review. This includes finalizing the Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health Framework and legislation.

“We rely on water-filled, intact forests for clean drinking water, protection from droughts and wildfires, habitat for endangered species like woodland caribou and salmon, and so much more. These forests are part of B.C.’s legacy. They are too precious to lose.

“It’s clear that there must be widespread public consultations with First Nations and concerned residents to make sure that forestry works for our communities, the environment and economy.”

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