We are on the ground 365 days a year and so get to know the wildlife and habitats of the Chilcotin Ark very well, but we are also constantly learning more. That’s why we work with other local woodlots and logging companies for habitat enhancement, the creation or preservation of suitable habitat for ungulates and wildlife conservation. We also educate them about our conservation work and give them the opportunity to fund these or participate in them, helping them to fulfill their ESG responsibilities.
Canada has almost one-quarter of the world’s natural forests which means it has an important role to play in terms of deforestation and climate change. Sustainable forest management maintains biodiversity, productivity, regeneration rate, vitality and stores carbon while considering ecological, economic and social factors. Logging companies are required to reforest and regenerate harvest sites to the original natural forest diversity. Timber tenure holders and logging contractors in the Bridge River Watershed area of the Chilcotin Ark adhere to government forestry and wildlife regulations in their harvesting plans which address ecological and production issues. A collaborative approach to sustainable management includes all stakeholders in the logging planning process.
Forests and woodlots are a valuable resource as carbon storage for the Chilcotin Ark. Conscious management practices and real management efforts have to be made in order to ensure the sustainability of the timber resource and ecosystems. The Chilcotin Ark Institute monitors forest practices to identify issues and encourage sustainable management. The action taken includes modifying cut blocks to ensure wildlife corridors are maintained, roads are deactivated to a maximum of 1/2 km per km2 in mule deer winter range so habitat is maintained.
