Economy Eats Old growth!

In yet another turn of events for forestry on the island, economically failing companies are pushing for old growth logging. Old growth logging has long been a concern for community activists, environmentalist groups, and recreational enthusiasts on Vancouver Island. These are relevant concerns for those involved, yet some of the tree lots in close proximity to towns and communities that were previously untouched are now feeling pressure to be cut.

This comes at a a time when the economy (especially for logging companies) has hit record lows. The high costs associated with tree removal on the island are going up because the areas left to log are not easily accessible, which means taking another look at the old growth they have left out of the picture until now. The marginal costs of these old growth trees is also going up, lending them to niche markets where logging companies can still make good money. Many companies have allowed the public to use to their lands for recreation but are now going in and cutting down species such as mature Douglas firs because they yield high profits due to their quality and rarity. The public now has an in your face look at how these trees affect biodiversity in the forest and frankly they don't like what they see.

It is the right of the land owner and logging company to log these trees but once again at what cost? It is understandable that in these poor economic times companies are searching high and low to turn a profit but if this means negative environmental affects that cannot be recouped then how does anyone win?

I believe that the communities involved in these projects feel quite strongly about what surrounds their town in terms of environment. Also these trees have become a great source of education for youth on sustainability of forests and their role in the natural environment. To take them away would most definitely negatively affect the community but on the other side of the coin what about communities that have grown and been established based purely on the logging industry?

I think it is about time that we put aside local protests, cutting without consulting and had mediated round table discussions where the needs of the industry can be meshed with the needs of the community. Its obvious that both sides are in need of an equilibrium where both community and industry can live symbiotically. To do this we need to meet face to face establish concerns from both sides and of course there will have to be giving in on both sides to reach agreements but after this is established the future of logging old growth will be easier to deal with. Just a though?

Times Columnist.2009.March 7. Page 1 "old-growth forests fall in tough economy"