Three northern B.C. communities are gaining more control over their forest resources, as the Province expands community forests in Vanderhoof, Fort St. James, and Fraser Lake.
The expansion is part of the second phase of the Prince George Timber Supply apportionment, which will allocate 60,000 cubic metres of timber to the three areas. The first phase, announced in 2021, gave over 1.2 million cubic metres to local First Nations.
Community forests are area-based licences managed by municipalities, First Nations, or local organizations for community benefit. The expansions are aimed at improving wildfire protection, supporting sustainable forestry, and strengthening local economies.
In Vanderhoof, plans include thinning older replanted stands to reduce fire risk and improve forest health for future generations. All expansions are developed in consultation with First Nations, many of whom are already partners in managing these lands.
The government says these changes reflect its commitment to long-term sustainability in B.C.’s forestry sector—ensuring it continues to support well-paying local jobs and healthy ecosystems.
There are currently 62 community forests in the province, including those in Vanderhoof, Fort St. James, and Fraser Lake, which were first established between 2001 and 2017.
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