The forestry sector in Canada is very important as it contributes to the economy, generating nearly $35 billion annually in GDP (2023) and creating over 200,000 jobs, particularly in rural areas.
Forestry GDP by province in Canada in 2020
In order to protect its forest regions and ensure the sustainable harvesting of timber, laws and policies such as the Forest Act and Timber Regulations are in place. Numerous associations and initiatives support forest management, conservation, and protection across the country.
Political parties have diverse stances on forestry issues, the Ancient Forest Alliance’s grading system is a great reference in seeing which political parties prioritize these matters. British Columbia is a focal point for forestry, containing four of Canada’s eight main forest regions and being the main province for softwood harvesting. However, wildfires are a major concern, with BC experiencing an average of 1,600 wildfires per year. The wildfires that occurred on the timber harvesting land base area in BC was 700 000 hectares in 2017 (58% of total area), 300 000 hectares in 2018 (23% of total area) and 419 500 hectares in 2021 (54% of total area). The impacts of climate change are increasingly worrisome, prompting initiatives like ClimateReadyBC to implement preventive measures. Indigenous peoples manage their forestry sectors independently from the government, guided by their own policies and regulations such as the First Nations Land Management Act. However, there is apparent collaboration being made between Indigenous communities with the Provincial and Federal Governments throughout Canada with land claims and forest sustainability initiatives.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the chief of the Siksika First Nation after signing a historic land claim
Key Features and History of Canada’s Forest Sector
Canada consists of eight distinct forest regions: Boreal, Subalpine, Montane, Coast, Columbia, Deciduous, Great Lakes-St. Lawrence, and Acadian. Focal points of harvesting are divided between the West and East, reflecting the unique tree species found on each coast. Canada’s forest sector has a rich history dating back to the 19th century when European demand for timber was high. The lumberjack profession, predominantly male, provided a reliable source of income for families.
Forestry Management, Policies and Regulations
Forests in Canada are managed by current policies and regulations of Crown land forests. Crown Land is also known as public land refers to areas ****owned by the federal or provincial government. ****It includes but not limited to the Forestry Act, Timber Regulations, and Plant Protection Act. Emphasizing the importance of forest conservation and protection, this section will analyze sustainable forest management plans implemented by various stakeholders, particularly provincial governments, as 90% of the land is publicly owned by provinces and territories.
Conditions of Canada’s Forests
This section will explain the current conditions of our forests, focusing on the repercussions of logging and deforestation, which disrupt ecosystems and wildlife habitats, particularly when the policies and regulations outlined in page one are not followed. It will address the growing impact and importance of climate change on Canadian forests. Additionally, it will review the history and current state of wildfires on the West Coast, where they are more prevalent, and discuss initiatives and preventative measures.
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