The B.C. government and BC Green caucus have formed a new Provincial Forest Advisory Council aimed at guiding sustainable forestry policy, but industry leaders are warning that key voices are being left out.
Announced under the 2025 Cooperation and Responsible Government Accord, the 10-member council includes Indigenous leaders, academics, union reps and former forestry executives.
It is tasked with advising the province on forest stewardship, biodiversity, and support for forestry-dependent communities.
“With boots on the ground, I’ve seen how important forestry is to families and communities,” said Forests Minister Ravi Parmar. “This council will help ensure a healthy, sustainable sector.”
But the Council of Forest Industries (COFI) says the initiative overlooks those most affected by policy changes.
“B.C.’s forest sector is in crisis. Mills are closing and jobs are at risk,” COFI said in a statement.
“Yet once again, there’s no direct representation from primary operations—sawmills, contractors, tenure holders.”
COFI called for urgent action, including fixing the permitting system, fast-tracking revenue-sharing with First Nations, and ensuring wood flows efficiently to market.
The advisory council will deliver an interim report in fall 2025, with a final report due by year-end.
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