Working Forest Landscape Model

• A more stable and predictable system 
• Working Forest Zone 
• Multiple Use Zone 
• Conservation and Protection Zone 
• ​Next steps in the proposed model

A more stable and predictable system 

B.C.’s current forest management system often requires operators and decision makers to pursue multiple objectives at the same time, leading to increased complexity, costs and potential uncertainty for the forestry sector, while not always meeting public expectations for the protection of biodiversity and ecosystems.

Approvals for forestry activities, as well as restoration and conservation efforts, are frequently delayed due to a system that manages permitting on a case-by-case basis.

The proposed model will establish clear, long-term objectives across three types of interconnected landscape management zones. These zones were developed based on several years of forestry modernization planning, including the Old Growth Action Plan, BC Timber Sales Review, advice from the Provincial Forest Advisory Council and the recently released  report from the Canadian Forest Sector Transformation Task Force.

The three types of zones in the proposed model are:

• Working Forest Zone 
• Multiple Use Zone 
• Conservation and Protection Zone

Identifying these zones will involve extensive collaboration between communities, First Nations, industry, ecologists and foresters all working toward shared goals. 

The proposed model is intended to integrate with, not replace, existing planning processes. Using the three-zone approach, the proposed model establishes broad landscape intentions, while the detailed management direction within them can be informed through existing planning processes and First Nations-led planning initiatives, like Forest Landscape Plans and Land Use Plans. Integrating the proposed model with current planning initiatives supports a stable, competitive, and sustainable forestry sector, while advancing biodiversity and ecosystem health objectives and delivering better stewardship outcomes throughout British Columbia. 

Working Forest Zone 

The Working Forest Zone would identify areas where the primary objective is the sustainable production of timber to support good-paying jobs in rural and Indigenous communities and a competitive forestry economy.

Working Forest Zones would become the foundation for operational planning through Forest Landscape Plans, providing greater predictability for workers, manufacturers and communities, while supporting investment and helping British Columbia get the most out of every tree harvested. It would be a move away from permit-by-permit harvesting toward a more predictable and stable system requiring fewer permitting processes.

Multiple Use Zone 

The Multiple Use Zone would focus on improving forest and ecosystem health through active and innovative stewardship, including wildfire risk reduction, ecosystem restoration, watershed protection, habitat enhancement and climate adaptation. Carefully managed forestry activities continue to support healthier, more resilient forests.

Conservation and Protection Zone 

The Conservation and Protection Zone would identify landscapes where conserving biodiversity and protecting ecological integrity are the primary management objectives.

This zone would support the Province’s commitment to protect 30% of British Columbia’s land base by 2030, while continuing implementation of the Old Growth Action Plan. Conservation outcomes would be advanced in partnership with First Nations.

Next steps in the proposed model

B.C. government staff are identifying potential candidate areas for these three zone types, in partnership with First Nations and through targeted engagement with industry, local governments and other interested parties, to recommend candidate areas to explore the proposed model.

In the fall of 2026, the Province will share the candidate area locations and begin exploring the new model throughout subsequent months.

Broader public engagement will occur, but only after the government has more information available and has assessed lessons learned from the exploration phase.

Asking the public for their feedback once the Province has more detailed information about candidate areas will foster meaningful insights during future public engagement opportunities.

Over time, the proposed model would allow the Province to:

• Identify where sustainable timber production would be prioritized in order to stabilize an economic land base that contributes to an annual harvest of 45 million cubic metres of timber and provides investor confidence in the forestry sector
• Demonstrate measurable improvements in restoring and enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem function in the Multiple Use Zone in a way that also supports some resource development
• Demonstrate increased conservation of critical biodiversity values, ecosystem restoration, and ecological resilience while supporting economic values

The Working Forest Landscape Model recognizes the need for a modern forest management system that strengthens competitiveness, advances reconciliation with First Nations, improves resource stewardship, enhances nature conservation efforts and provides greater economic stability for people living in British Columbia.