As the province continues to brainstorm ways to make the forestry industry more sustainable, the City of Quesnel is doing just that.
Years of devastation prompted by the mountain pine beetle infestation and wildfires led the City to create their Forestry Initiatives Plan in 2019.
That plan takes a holistic approach to wildfire mitigation, supported by $1.7 million in funding from the Forest Enhancement Society of BC.
Since it was created, crews have prescribed and treated 230 hectares of surrounding forests, and have developed prescription plans for another 200 hectares.
Their approach uses innovative harvesting equipment, which allows for lighter touch, zero waste, and more diverse and effective silvicultural treatments.
Collaboration with local First Nations, industry partners, and government has also played a key role in their unique approach.
But, it hasn’t been without challenges, as the City says it has been difficult to find and train operators to use the complex equipment.
Despite that, the City continues to work diligently to transform the industry into one which supports resilient ecosystems.
Recently, the FESBC invested a further $500,000 into the initiative, allowing them to continue to conduct their work.
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