VICTORIA – An audit of TimberWest’s operations in Tree Farm Licence 47, near Campbell River, found legal compliance with B.C.’s forestry legislation, as well as the South Central Coast Order and the Vancouver Island Land Use Plan Higher Level Plan Order, according to a report released today.
“The audit identified an area of improvement related to assessing wildfire hazards,” said Tim Ryan, board chair. “Similar to findings in a number of recent audits, TimberWest did not formally assess and document wildfire hazards following logging. However, they did remove all hazards as part of their standard practice of piling and burning slash, and are now working with the Coastal Fire Centre in government to develop a fuel management plan.”
TimberWest’s operating area is north of Campbell River, along Johnstone Strait, and southeast of Port McNeill on Vancouver Island. The area includes the southernmost portions of the Great Bear Rainforest.
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.
Darlene Oman
Communications
Forest Practices Board
Phone: 250 213-4705 / 1 800 994-5899
