Act now: Support a brighter future for BC’s old growth | Wildsight

The BC government recently announced plans to defer logging of 2.6 million hectares of high-risk old growth forests pending the outcome of consultations with Indigenous Nations. The deferrals, based on the priority areas identified by the independent Old Growth Technical Advisory Panel, show that the provincial government recognizes the desperate state of our old growth forests for the first time in history. That's something to celebrate!

This historic plan would not have been possible without people like you standing up and speaking out for old growth. But, there is still a long way to go, and we must hold the government accountable for meaningful implementation of the recommendations set out in the Old Growth Technical Review.

It is vital that we support Indigenous Nations, rural communities and forestry workers in this transition. Without support, many will oppose protection of our old growth, putting the transition in peril.

Please take a few moments to let the provincial government know you support old growth protection and a just transition for our communities today.

To: BC Forests Minister Katrine Conroy
Premier John Horgan
Environment Minister George Heyman

Subject: *

Write your own message below for maximum impact — or simply send the pre-written letter.

Make this form full page

Your message: *
Dear Premier Horgan, Minister Conroy and Minister Heyman, I am writing today first to thank you for recognizing the best available science and taking the first step in protecting BC’s old growth, and second, to request that the province provides full and necessary support to ensure the meaningful implementation of the Old Growth Technical Advisory Panel’s recommendations to protect BC’s high-risk old growth. As one of the last jurisdictions in the world still logging these irreplaceable ecosystems, it is vital that immediate action is taken to prevent the loss and imminent ecological collapse in old growth forests like the Inland Temperate Rainforest. The biodiversity that makes British Columbia so beautiful depends on old growth for protection. To prevent irreversible losses of biodiversity, BC must take immediate action to defer all 2.6 million hectares of the at-risk old growth while indigenous engagement takes place. A paradigm shift has been long overdue for BC’s forestry industry. With over 47,000 jobs lost in the last two decades, it’s clear that new approaches are necessary for the sustainability of BC’s forests and those whose income depends on them. It is essential that the province provide necessary support to workers, rural communities, and especially Indigenous Nations. Funding for these communities, as well as conservation financing, must be provided to support the full participation of First Nations in making the decision to transition forestry approaches or industries altogether. A brighter, sustainable future is possible for BC’s forestry industry and irreplaceable old growth forests, but only immediate action taken by the Provincial government will ensure this future is possible. It’s time to move away from the unsustainable harvest of old growth and prioritize managing our forests for ecosystem health for the sake of biodiversity, forests, First Nations, and industry workers across the province. Thank you for taking my concerns seriously. Sincerely,

First Name *

Not you? Click here to clear.

Last Name *

Email *

For Wildsight updates.

Street Address

City

Postal Code

State/Province

Country

Leave this field blank

SIGN NOW