2003/04 – 2005/06 SERVICE PLAN Forest Practices Board

Consistency with Government Priorities

Results-based Forest Practices Code that eliminates needless cost while maintaining environmental standards

The Board has established credibility and can be an important part of the checks and balances government puts in place to accompany the move to a results-based regulatory environment that places more responsibility with the forest industry and professionals.

The Board can contribute to adaptive management by independently assessing the objectives government has set and how well they are being achieved on the ground, based on credible field information. Recommendations for adjustments can then be developed to ensure effectiveness of results based regulations.

A leading edge forest industry that is globally recognized for its productivity and environmental stewardship

Board audits will help ensure that industry protects the environment while achieving sound management of the public’s forests. Independent reports and information provided to interested groups and organizations outside of B.C. will assist industry in achieving global recognition of its forest practices and environmental stewardship.

Board audit procedures will take into account independent forest practices audits, and will eliminate duplication and increase the overall value of the collective audit effort.

Adopt scientifically based, principled management to ensure sustainability

The Board’s field-based information will be useful to government in assessing how well the objectives developed under a result-based Code are being achieved on the ground and in identifying improvements to ensure intended results are achieved.

The work of the Board can provide independent, credible information that the government could choose to use in support of its international marketing campaign for B.C. forest products.

Open government and accountable decision making

In reporting its findings to the public, the Board supports government in being open and accountable for its forest practices and its enforcement of forest regulations.