Province paves the way for forest and land management paradigm shift

BC Parks photo

ORCBC attended the Multi-Sectoral Old Growth Forum in Vancouver on Feb. 6-7 to learn about efforts by the Province of B.C., in partnership with First Nations, to implement the 14 recommendations identified in the Old Growth Strategic Review (OGSR) and develop a new Declaration on Ecosystem Health and Biodiversity.

The Province has previously accepted all 14 OGSR recommendations and has adopted a new, holistic approach to protect old-growth forests that will result in the co-creation of a Declaration on Ecosystem Health and Biodiversity as well as an action plan with First Nations, with input from stakeholders such as ORCBC, tourism, industry etc.  

During the two-day Forum, the Province shared updates on progress and work to date. Feedback was sought on various issues through breakout sessions. Characterized by forum leaders as a “paradigm shift”, the action plan and Declaration will result in a new approach to the management of not only old growth but the overall management of forests, water and lands in BC.

The Declaration is expected by the end of April 2023, and the province will then develop or update legislation or enabling tools to implement the Declaration from Spring 2023 onward.

ORCBC is liaising with the province to clarify the role of recreation stakeholders in the resource management decision making process.