The province’s deputy chief forester, Albert Nussbaum announced a new, lower allowable annual cut (AAC) level for the Sunshine Coast Timber Supply Area (TSA) on June 6.
Effective that date, the AAC for the Sunshine Coast Timber Sales Area is 1.05 million cubic metres. That represents a 12.3 per cent reduction from the previous AAC.
The forester’s statement in a press release said, “In light of the old-growth deferral areas in place within the TSA, as well as to ensure sustainable forestry practices, the determination includes two partitions. A maximum of 262,500 cubic metres may be harvested from stands older than 140 years and a maximum of 787,500 cubic metres may be harvested from stands 140 years and younger."
The Sunshine Coast TSA comprises approximately 1.7 million hectares on B.C.’s southwestern coast and overlaps the territory of 22 First Nations. In the statement, it was noted all affected First Nations were consulted during a timber-supply review process, with their feedback considered. In addition, it was reported that the deputy chief forester also sought public input and considered concerns and interests, such as old growth, water, ecosystem function, recreation, climate change and extreme weather events.
More AAC changes to come
“As part of the Province's updated forest planning, a forest landscape plan (FLP) pilot was initiated concurrent with the timber supply review. FLPs are completed in partnership with First Nations and establish clear direction for forest management, including approaches to managing old growth and biodiversity, climate change and wildfire risk. The deputy chief forester has committed to redetermining a new AAC when the FLP is complete,” the statement noted.
According to the information released, the deputy chief forester's AAC determination is an independent, professional judgment based on information ranging from technical forestry reports, First Nations consultations, input from the public and the government's social and economic objectives. Under the Forest Act, the chief forester, Shane Berg, must determine the AAC in each of the province's 37 timber supply areas and 34 tree farm licences at least once every 10 years.
Joe Smith Creek Cutblock decision pending
As for the situation with the tendering of harvesting rights for TA 0521 (aka Joe Smith Creek) by BC Timber Sales, a decision on an award of a tender is listed as “processing” on the BC Bid website as of mid-day on June 6. That tender process for the rights to harvest the approximate 13 hectares on the slopes of Mt. Elphinstone above Highway 101 near Roberts Creek closed on June 4.
