Removing limitations on objectives set by government

The amendment will remove specific parts of the provisions which prioritize timber supply over objectives for other values, in order to enable the objectives for all timber and non-timber values to be considered equally.

Most specifically, the following sections of the Forest Planning and Practices Regulation are amended or repealed to remove the limitation “without unduly reducing the supply of timber from British Columbia’s forests”: 

Frequently asked questions about the FPPR change

• Why are these changes being made?
• Is timber supply still a relevant consideration in statutory determinations for operational plans under FRPA?
• Will these changes trigger a mandatory amendment for existing operational plans?
• How will this change help the Province meet its objectives around reconciliation with First Nations peoples?
• When will this change take effect and what will happen to current Forest Stewardship Plans?

Why are these changes being made?

When the Forest Practices Code (FPC) was replaced by the Forest and Range Practices Act (FRPA), the “without unduly” language was enacted to carry forward the FPC requirement to limit impacts of legislation on the Province’s timber supply to 6%. This clause was intended to balance conservation of non-timber values with the socio-economic benefits associated with timber values. While policy has attempted to guide the application of this test, it has limited the Ministerial discretion required to most effectively balance and manage objectives set by government.

Is timber supply still a relevant consideration in statutory determinations for operational plans under FRPA?

Yes. Timber remains a key value under the Forest and Range Practices Act and statutory decision makers must balance the Timber Objective (FPPR s.6) with other values when making determinations on operational plans. It is important to note that timber continues to be a FRPA value, and that forest management will aim to continue generating a sustainable flow of timber from BC forests.

Will these changes trigger a mandatory amendment for existing operational plans?

No. As a transitional consideration, it is the intention of government to not inadvertently trigger mandatory amendments for Forest Stewardship Plans (FSP) in making these amendments. FSP holders will therefore not be required to update their FSP as a result of this regulatory amendment. Rather, the next time that a mandatory amendment is required, or a replacement FSP is prepared and submitted for approval, the holder will be required to develop results and strategies to meet the updated provisions.

How will this change help the Province meet its objectives around reconciliation with First Nations peoples?

First Nations have supported the removal of the “without unduly reducing” language in the FPPR. Removing this statutory limitation helps to provide a more holistic framework for forest stewardship and equitable consideration of timber and non-timber values.

When will this change take effect and what will happen to current Forest Stewardship Plans?

Note that the changes do not trigger mandatory amendments to existing FSPs. These changes will apply to all mandatory amendments and replacement FSPs that are submitted for approval more than 4 months after this amendment comes into force as per FRPA 7(2).