VICTORIA – An audit of forest licence A18969, held by International Forest Products Limited (Interfor), found adequate forest practices for harvest planning, site preparation, planting and forest regrowth, but noted one unsafe bridge and concerns over winter road construction and road and bridge inspections, according to a report released today.

“Under previous ownership, FL A18969 was certified by the Sustainable Forestry Initiative. However, since Interfor took over in May 2008, the certification and associated road and bridge management systems haven’t been maintained,” said board chair Al Gorley. “Following the audit, the company removed the bridge and informed the board that plans are in place to have the licence re-certified. This should help address the issues identified in the audit.”

The board looked at harvesting, road construction and maintenance, silviculture, fire preparedness, environmental protection activities and associated planning done between June 2008 and June 2010. The audit examined operational planning for 30 harvest blocks; over 300 kilometres of roads and 14 bridges; more than 100 silviculture blocks; and over 30 blocks for fire protection activities.

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:

Helen Davies, Communications
Forest Practices Board
Phone: 250 213-4708 / 1 800 994-5899