Old Growth Deferrals & WLs

As you know, government made an announcement regarding old growth which included maps identifying deferral areas.  The Federation has done an initial analysis – see attached spreadsheet.  Please forward it immediately to woodlot licensees in your area.

Active WL vs OG Deferrals spread sheet

If a WL is listed on the spreadsheet, it is recommended the licensee take a close look at the deferred area and confirm that it is in fact old growth.  Tom Bradley produced a map that can be downloaded at http://www.woodfor.com/WFED/OG/WL_vs_OG_Deferral_2021_11_04.pdf.  Alternatively, a licensee may wish to examine the area by downloading the spatial data provided by the ministry.

The Federation is already aware of what appear to be mapping errors such as OG deferral areas including age class 4, previously logged areas, areas burned by wildfires, etc. and that Schedule A (private) land should not have been included.

The ministry advises that all affected licensees will be invited to a technical review session and that those sessions are likely to be held next week.  We were told that licensees will be advised how to report and have mapping errors corrected at that time. 

The Federation is working with the ministry to better understand the current process and represent WL interests.