Comments on other ongoing government processes in the Strathcona timber supply area are summarized here to indicate perspectives on issues that may influence timber supply in the future.
Vancouver Island land-use plan
The Discussion Paper specifically states that the results of decisions from the Vancouver Island Land-Use Plan and from the implementation of the Forest Practices Code are not included in this timber supply review. Nevertheless, a number of submissions state that the effects of these processes, especially the land-use plan, must be considered before determining an allowable annual cut. However, input was divided about the effect on harvest levels if these were considered.
Timber supply review process
It was suggested that the public must be involved at each point in the decision making process, information provided to them must be understandable, issues must be identified early, and the consequences of alternative actions must be outlined.
The Sierra Club suggested that a simpler and clearer planning process needs to be developed to avoid pitting resource users against each other. They also suggest that the public should be able to carry out their own timber supply analysis by having full access to the Forest Service analysis model.
· Establishing separate harvest levels
Several comments were received suggesting that the three timber supply blocks making up the Strathcona timber supply area should be reviewed separately and sustainable harvest levels should be determined in each area.
A few submissions point to the Western Strathcona Local Advisory Council report which recommended the Kyuquot Supply Block must move to a sustainable rate of harvest responsibly and expeditiously.
Forest renewal program
It was recommended that funding available through the Forest Renewal BC program should be sought to aid in silviculture projects. At the same time this would generate short-term employment opportunities for the region.
A few of the submissions suggest that local communities and businesses would benefit if more funds were made available through the Forest Renewal BC Program for silviculture and value-added manufacturing projects in their area to generate economic stability.
Value added
There were suggestions that more value-added processing of timber products should be encouraged and supported through incentive programs to broaden the economic base of the area.
Economic diversity
It was suggested by a few of the submissions that an economic development strategy for single resource communities must be developed to diversify economies and create favourable business climates that protect the cultural, social and environmental values of the community.
Another suggestion was made that a more dynamic view of the economy and ecosystems is required to anticipate changes in the future.
