The Timber Supply Review is an improvement over past methods, with better information and superior analytical techniques. The process was designed to stimulate public discussion through the release of reports and this discussion paper, and to accommodate new information, techniques and ideas. Figure 1 illustrates the five-step process that has been developed for the Timber Supply Review in timber supply areas. The diagram also indicates the status of the Timber Supply Review for the Kalum-South area and the estimated time required to complete each step in the process.
The review process for existing tree farm licence contracts is similar, but these contracts require less emphasis on socio-economic impacts. Every five years each licensee must update the Tree Farm Licence Management and Working Plan, which includes a timber supply analysis, to renew their licence. The chief forester assesses this timber supply analysis and defines an allowable annual cut as part of the review and approval of the Management and Working Plan. Development Plans, which are updated annually, identify planned forestry activities within the licence area. As current tree farm licences are replaced, the new contracts will require a process which conforms to the Timber Supply Review format.
Figure 1 Steps in the Timber Supply Review process
