VICTORIA – The Forest Practices Board will audit the District of Mission’s forest practices in Tree Farm Licence (TFL) 26 in the Chilliwack Forest District, from Sept. 28 to Oct. 2.

The audit will examine planning, harvesting, roads, silviculture and fire protection activities for compliance with forest practices legislation.

Located in the northern part of Mission on both sides of the lower arm of Stave Lake, TFL 26 is approximately 10,000 hectares. It is one of only two B.C. tree farm licences held directly by a municipality, and is referred to locally as the Mission Municipal Forest.

When the audit work is completed, a report will be prepared, and any party that may be adversely affected by the audit findings will have a chance to respond. The board’s final report and recommendations will then be released to the public and government.

The Forest Practices Board is B.C.’s independent watchdog for sound forest and range practices, reporting its findings and recommendations directly to the public and government. The board:

• Audits forest and range practices on public lands.
• Audits appropriateness of government enforcement.
• Investigates public complaints.
• Undertakes special investigations of current forestry issues.
• Participates in administrative appeals.
• Makes recommendations for improvement to practices and legislation.

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