Comments on other ongoing government processes in the Fraser Timber Supply Area are summarized here to indicate perspectives on issues that may influence timber supply in the future.
Protected Areas Strategy and Spotted Owl Interim Conservation Strategy
These processes are of significant concern to the timber industry. Decisions to protect spotted owl habitat and significant ecological areas through the Protected Areas Strategy may result in a reduced timber harvesting land base. It is perceived that this will have significant impacts on the short- and long-term timber supply. As a result, some submissions suggest that a working forest land base should be identified and protected through legislation.
Treaty negotiations
Local First Nations indicate that once treaty negotiations are completed, further analysis will be required to adjust harvest levels.
Watershed management requirements
New requirements for watershed assessments in the Forest Practices Code and the new Community Watershed Guidelines will change practices within community watersheds throughout British Columbia. BC Environment staff believe these practices will impact the timber supply in the Fraser Timber Supply Area in the future.
