TEGART: “We need to ensure stewardship”

From Page 5 to work in partnership, we need to ensure that stewardship and biodiversity is part of planning to ensure a sustainable industry.”

The Herald reached out to the Ministry of Forests to request an interview with Minister Bruce Ralston on the topic of possible negotiations with local First Nations and the impact of forestry on smaller locales, to which Ministry staff responded with a statement.

“The Ministry of Forests values the contribution of forestry to the regional economy of the Nicola Valley and the people who live and work there,” said the Ministry of Forests in a statement.

“The Province is working with the local communities and First Nations to design a collaborative and principled approach to issuing cutting permits that addresses stewardship concerns.”

Tegart added that she believes the government is treating forestry as a sunset industry, despite its future potential in the province. With the industry undoubtedly in transition, its future in the Nicola Valley remains uncertain.