The State of BC’s Forests Introduction and Overviews Chief Forester’s Message — PDF print version

Chief Forester’s Message

This report on the state of British Columbia’s forests is designed to inform both general and technical readers about our forests from a particular viewpoint – that of sustainability.

As chief forester, it is my role to advise government and inform the public on sustainable forest management. Currently, many sources provide factual information on parts of this complex topic, but few if any provide an overview that is both accessible and comprehensive. In addition to providing factual information, this report presents assessments of sustainability by Ministry of Forests staff.

I hope that both the facts and the assessments will encourage informed, constructive discussion. A periodic review of our forests, including environmental, economic, social and governance aspects, can show us how far we’ve come and help us decide where future actions would be desirable.

The report’s framework of indicators, or measures, of sustainability is based on international and national frameworks for assessing sustainable forest management, with an emphasis on issues of particular importance to British Columbia. Six indicators are presented here. Future editions of the report will fill out the full framework of 24 indicators and provide updates on previously presented indicators.

Your feedback on this report’s approach, format and level of information is welcomed and will help us improve subsequent editions.

With public ownership of 95% of all land in the province, British Columbians have a real opportunity to contribute to sustainable forest management. By using the best science-based information available to make informed decisions, we can ensure that the forests of British Columbia continue to provide their many benefits to future generations.

Jim Snetsinger, RPF
Chief Forester
Ministry of Forests

 

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