THE SOLUTION: AN EDUCATIONAL FOREST
A coalition of individuals and community groups are organizing to protect and nurture this naturally regenerated forest for its ecological, recreational, educational and historical value. We are asking the Minister to remove this parcel of land from BCTS’s Timber Supply Area (conditional withdraw of the land for conservation purposes – Land Act s. 17.)
MANY WINS
Land Use– A buffer zone between industrial (logging) land use and residential areas. This is relevant to FLNRORD policy on urban interface areas, and an upcoming regional growth strategy which must deal with land use conflicts and sprawl.
Intact Ecosystem– This is an intact, naturally regenerated, low elevation forest that contains native DNA, not imported species. This makes it very valuable for study, especially as we face climate change. It is also adjacent to block 1312, logged recently, which provides an opportunity to study and compare regeneration patterns.
Stormwater Management– This is a key part of our natural drainage system which is under increasing stress. A contributing factor in the February 2020 washout of Lower Road was likely runoff from the clear-cutting of DL1312. Residents are understandably alarmed.
Carbon Capture– Mature forests have a high carbon capture value, and preserving them will help us meet critical climate change targets.
Aquifers– This is a recharge area for local aquifers, likely including Chaster Well, which is part of the SCRD’s water system. The SCRD will be test drilling two new wells nearby.
Fish– As recently as the 1950s, Chaster Creek teemed with salmon. Now it is severely stressed, with slides in the ravine. Remediating the creek must start at the water source.
Wildlife Corridor– Regional planning has neglected this important value, not just for large species like deer and bear, but smaller ones like tree frogs.
Cultural Education– This is an ideal location to showcase local history, especially indigenous harvesting practices. Partnerships with the Sunshine Coast Museum and Archives, Squamish Nation, School District 46 and post secondary partners have strong potential.
Recreation and Tourism– This forest is part of a corridor that provides connectivity between residential areas and hiking/mountain biking trails. It is ideally close to schools, services, and transportation hubs including the Langdale ferry and highway 101.