Inspired by deep respect and and concern for the places that that have sustained life since the beginning, we stand firm in our opposition to the Private Managed Forest Lands Act
Why we came together
When we realized that communities all over southern Vancouver Island were experiencing similar struggles–and that the land managers were benefiting from these similar but isolated conflicts, conversations and compromises–we knew we had to start working together.
Landowners have spent the last 20+ years since the implementation of the Private Managed Forest Lands Act in 2003 exploiting the lack of oversight and regulation, and excluding both researchers and the public from the process and from the land. Through research, advocacy and education, we’re standing up for the health of our ecosystems and the health of the communities that live in and alongside them.
Our guiding values
Community engagement
Public involvement brings more accountability and transparency to decision making. Indigenous Peoples and local governments should included in processes that directly affect their communities.
Public access
Access to forests for cultural, recreational and scientific activities is an issue of great importance to the community.
Valuing all that forests provide
We all have a responsibility to future generations to harvest and replant taking all forest values into account.
How we work
In the early days of the PFAA, the leadership group met monthly. Outreach to groups within the the Private Managed Forest Lands led to a consensus on the issues that we could collaborate on. We had a very successful large group meeting, giving us the motivation to work as a leadership team to lay a firm foundation for the work ahead. We know there is a huge amount of expertise, skill and knowledge in the groups and individuals that have continued to work so diligently in their communities and know it will be needed as we combine our efforts in the months ahead.
Interested?
