Ecotrust analysis reveals that very little logging is possible under Science Panel rules
Contained in a new book published in May, 1997 by Ecotrust Canada, Seeing the Ocean through the Trees. are the results of a mapping project carried out by Ecotrust's team of Geographic Information System (GIS) experts. Their maps reveal just how much of Clayoquot's forests are left to log after applying a number of Scientific Panel rules. For example, they eliminated slopes that the Scientific Panel says are too steep to log and placed off-limits enough forests to meet the Panel's specified minimum retention of oldgrowth forest characteristics. Their conclusion: there will be precious little left to log. And this is not even deducting from the cut those ancient forested areas that the Panel specifies must be set aside in reserves, after inventories have been conducted, to protect the full range of biodiversity, cultural values, sacred sites, fisheries, recreation and other significant values.
Ecotrust's preliminary analysis indicates that the remaining pristine areas in Clayoquot are not economic to log under Scientific Panel rules and that less than 20,000 cubic meters (about 700 logging truck loads) of wood a year can be logged from the already fragmented watersheds. This will produce about 27 permanent jobs. Ecotrust's report urges that this wood be value-added (further manufactured) within the Sound to create more employment.
A Clayoquot Biosphere Reserve could include Tribal Parks. Hiker on the Ahousaht Wild Side Heritage Trail on beautiful Flores Island. Photo credit: Graham Osborne
A Clayoquot Biosphere Reserve could include a marine component with local co-management. Rich intertidal life on Flores Island. Photo credit: Graham Osborne
