A call for increased oversight of old-growth forests on Quadra Island has been made by a provincial watchdog in British Columbia.
The Forest Practices Board, an independent agency responsible for overseeing forestry practices in the province, has released a report urging the B.C. government to take action in protecting the old-growth forests on Quadra Island.
According to the report, the island’s old-growth forests are at risk due to a lack of oversight and management. The board found that the current management practices are not sufficient in ensuring the sustainability of these valuable ecosystems.
The report also highlighted the importance of old-growth forests in providing habitat for endangered species and their role in mitigating the effects of climate change. It emphasized the need for a more comprehensive approach to managing these forests, including the involvement of Indigenous communities and local stakeholders.
The Forest Practices Board has recommended that the B.C. government work with local communities and Indigenous groups to develop a long-term plan for the management of old-growth forests on Quadra Island. This plan should include clear objectives and strategies for sustainable forestry practices, as well as regular monitoring and reporting.
In response to the report, the B.C. government has stated that it is committed to protecting old-growth forests and is currently working on a new strategy for their management. The government also acknowledged the importance of working with local communities and Indigenous groups in developing this strategy.
The report from the Forest Practices Board serves as a reminder of the need for increased oversight and management of old-growth forests in British Columbia. It is crucial that the government takes action to protect these valuable ecosystems for future generations.
