BC Government Celebrates the Planting of 10-Billionth Tree in Its Reforestation Program

On Monday, the British Columbia Government said it is celebrating the 10-billionth tree planted since reforestation programs began in 1930, with two billion those trees planted in the past seven years.

According to the press release, 305 million seedlings were planted in 2023. One of these seedlings was the 10-billionth planted since work began almost a century ago. In honor of this milestone, Bruce Ralston, Minister of Forests, planted a ceremonial tree in Surrey’s Green Timbers Urban Forest Park. The park, dubbed the “birthplace of reforestation,” is home to the province’s first reforestation efforts in 1930.

Forest tenure holders have been legally required to undertake reforestation efforts since 1987. In 2024, 235 million of the 290 million seedlings expected to be planted will be done through forestry companies, with an additional five million planted by First Nations.

In addition to legislated reforestation efforts, the province will plant an additional 50 million trees this year through several provincial and federal programs. These initiatives focus reforestation efforts on areas that have been adversely affected by natural disturbances, such as mountain pine beetle infestations and wildfire.

The reforestation programs work is far from complete, and the province’s research and investment programs continue to work improving silviculture practices to boost the success of every seedling and help make sure BC’s forests are resilient in a changing climate. Climate resiliency is one reason why the province provided the Bulkley Valley Center for Natural Resources Research and Management—a world-class research institute based in Smithers—with $10 million in 2023. Its new Silviculture Innovation Program will support research and innovative practices that better address forest and ecosystem health.