BC Expands Role of BC Timber Sales

On Tuesday, British Columbia announced it is expanding and strengthening the role of BC Timber Sales (BCTS) to ensure the province’s forests continue to support good forestry jobs and resilient ecosystems. The move follows recommendations from the BCTS Task Force review.

BCTS had previously focused on auctioning publicly owned timber and setting price benchmarks, without addressing broader goals related to the strength and sustainability of the forestry sector.

The expanded mandate is built on four cornerstones: building thriving communities with good jobs, supporting manufacturing diversity, forming strong partnerships with First Nations and communities, and fostering resilient forest ecosystems.

The task force’s recommendations include creating growth, competition, and diversification in the forestry sector; ensuring predictable and reliable fiber access; supporting value-added facilities; strengthening partnerships with First Nations; increasing employment for contractors and workers; and leading in sustainable forest management and silviculture practices.

Commenting on the announcement, BC Minister of Forests Ravi Parmar said:

“BC’s forestry sector is experiencing significant change—a changing climate, a changing market, and changing trade relationships. In this uncertain time, we’re giving BCTS the tools to meet this critical moment head on. This is about taking action to support a thriving forest economy and deliver on the public interest for workers, towns, families and companies throughout the province.”