British Columbia’s forest sector strategy, “Our Natural Advantage: Forest Sector Strategy for British Columbia,” was released April 12.
The strategy, part of the BC Jobs Plan, will build on and grow six priorities planted by the Working Roundtable on Forestry to support a more vibrant sector that supports employment in every part of the province.
“Our forests and timber resources provide a valuable natural advantage to increase the momentum behind Canada Starts Here: The B.C. Jobs Plan,” said Steve Thomson, Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations. “This new forest sector strategy also builds on the Working Roundtable on Forestry and will enable job creation, open new markets, and prepare us for the opportunities of tomorrow.”
Encouraging markets in Asia to make B.C. forest products their first choice in building materials will increase demand for lumber and strengthen the forest sector. The strategy will also enhance B.C.’s forestry advantage with actions that support the wood-first commitment, growing trees, carbon storage, a competitive operating climate, innovation, diversification, rural economies, and First Nations’ participation._The strategy calls for new applications and expanded use of wood construction in non-residential and mid-rise buildings._Ongoing investment in reforestation, silviculture activities, and forest carbon projects will result in fast-growing forests to address timber supply challenges created by the mountain pine beetle infestation.__B.C.’s forest sector will continue to transform and innovate to meet the need for green energy and help build the bio-economy.__The forest sector strategy also involves continued opportunities for community forest agreements, the woodlot program and helping First Nations move forward as partners in forestry._
Learn more at www.for.gov.bc.ca/mof/forestsectorstrategy/.