The impact of timber supply adjustments on local communities and the provincial economy is an important consideration in the Timber Supply Review. Communities within the Fort St. John Timber Supply Area recognize the importance of the timber industry in their economy, and have expressed concern about possible changes in timber supply resulting from this review and other government initiatives, such as the Forest Practices Code and the Protected Areas Strategy.
An increase in the allowable annual cut will create new employment opportunities within the timber supply area. If substantial enough, the increase could draw significant numbers of people to the area and improve the local tax base. This development could also enhance the forest sector’s capability to act as a buffer to the volatile oil and gas industry. Conversely, a substantial increase in timber supply would put pressure on community infrastructure, including the local housing market. In addition, some economic sectors, such as guide-outfitting which is dependent on undisturbed settings, could be negatively impacted by higher harvesting levels.
The impacts of increased timber harvesting on tourism are uncertain. However, it is likely that the demand for recreation opportunities in the timber supply area will continue to increase.
