VICTORIA – An audit of forest licence A19040 near Cranbrook, held by Tembec Industries Ltd., found good planning and forest practices, according to a report released today.

"Tembec’s harvesting was focused primarily on the pine beetle infestation, yet they continued to meet their ongoing obligations for road maintenance and silviculture obligations,” said board chair Al Gorley.

The board examined Tembec’s activities for compliance with legislation, looking at harvesting, road construction and maintenance, silviculture, fire preparedness, environmental protection activities and associated planning done between July 2009 and July 2010.

Tembec’s FL A19040 operates under the Kootenay Boundary Higher Level Plan Order, meaning that the company must meet objectives for forest values, including caribou habitat and the retention of mature and old-growth forests.

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 and appropriateness of government enforcement. It can also make recommendations for improvement to practices and legislation.

More information can be obtained by contacting:

Darlene Oman
Communications
Forest Practices Board
Phone: 250 213-4705 / 1 800 994-5899