The province has increased funding for the Forest Enhancement Society of B.C. with the goal of increasing fibre supply while also mitigating wildfire risks and reducing climate emissions.
“We know that access to fibre is one of the most critical challenges facing the industry and we’re working hard to find new sources,” said Premier David Eby, in a news release. “The projects funded through the Forest Enhancement Society of BC will help us get more fire-damaged wood and logging waste to the mills that need it. At the same time, forestry contractors will have more work hauling fibre that would otherwise be too remote or costly to access. This also supports our CleanBC Roadmap to 2030 and our continued focus on getting more well-paying jobs from our forests.”
The $50 million from the province will expand funding for projects and programs that increase the use of low-value or residual fibre, including trees damaged by recent wildfires and waste left over from logging that would otherwise be burned in slash piles.
“The Forest Enhancement Society of BC is a proven partner in delivering projects on the ground that benefit communities, workers, and the health of our forests,” said Bruce Ralston, Minister of Forests. “Forestry is – and will remain – a foundation of B.C.’s economy. As market prices have declined, forestry workers should know that government has their backs. That’s why we are taking action today and providing increased funding to get more fibre to the mills that need it.”
Renewed and increased funding for FESBC meets a key recommendation of the Pulp and Paper Coalition to keep mills operating and protect forestry jobs.