VICTORIA – An audit of Tolko Industries Ltd.'s forest practices on forest licences A18696, A18697 and A74911 in the Cascades Natural Resource District has found general compliance with B.C.'s forestry legislation.

"Most practices were well done, but fire hazard assessments were either incomplete or were not completed within the required time period," said Kevin Kriese, board chair. "Since the audit, Tolko advised the board it has completed a standard operating procedure for fire hazard assessments that will be followed for all its future operations, which is a really positive outcome."

The audit examined all operational planning, timber harvesting, wildfire protection and silviculture, as well as construction, maintenance and deactivation of roads and major structures carried out between June 1, 2018, and July 12, 2019.

The areas covered by the audit are scattered throughout the Merritt Timber Supply Area, with most located between Merritt to the north and Manning Park to the south, and from the Coquihalla Highway east to Highway 5A.

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.

Contact:

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