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Forest needs protection

Editor: The logging of cutblock A87125, also known as the proposed expansion area for Mount Elphinstone Provincial Park in Roberts Creek, should be immediately stopped.

Editor:

The logging of cutblock A87125, also known as the proposed expansion area for Mount Elphinstone Provincial Park in Roberts Creek, should be immediately stopped. There are existing tree farms that can supply the timber without destroying much needed forest ecosystems.

According to the Roberts Creek Official Community Plan, cutblock A87125 is part of a valuable 1,500-hectare zone that needs protection for ecological and recreational reasons. The Regional District Board passed a motion to oppose logging the area, and requested that the Ministry of Forests and BC Timber Sales defer awarding a contract to this block. Why is the province ignoring this community’s priorities?

As Mark Lebbell has pointed out, this is not a case of pitting the environment against the economy. The BC Chamber of Commerce has pointed out that protecting old-growth forests has real economic benefits. A business model that involves more sustainability, meaningful social licence, and fewer injunctions is possible and needed. In facing the challenges posed by climate change, B.C. should protect and value intact, healthy forests much more than it has so far.

Rita Wong, Vancouver