Role of woodlot licence program in BC forest sector

Abstract

Woodlot licences in British Columbia are small area-based tenures, held by individuals, small groups or families. Woodlot licences are often located in or near local communities and are thought to be in a better position to incorporate local values into management planning. The purpose of this study was to use measurable indicators to provide quantitative information on economic, social, and environmental impacts of the woodlot licence program on local communities and coastal BC. A survey with 18 indicators measuring environmental, social, and economic impacts was created, based heavily on the well-respected annual BCCFA Indicator Report. The survey was answered by WL holders in the North Island Woodlot Association (NIWA), which represents the north end of Vancouver Island and encompasses 45 WL’s. The results indicate that woodlot licences provide similar economic impacts as the coast industry proportional to volume cut each year. As well it shows that woodlot licences play a role in diversifying the local economy, have high environmental standards, and are more accepted by rural communities than larger forms of tenure. Overall woodlot licences are a viable form of tenure on the BC coast when located in or near rural communities.