We need to enhance our environmental protections in B.C., and the first step in that process is to properly protect the areas of rich biological diversity that we have left.
Old growth forest enriches salmon streams, jelly lichens, nesting eagles, arboreal mice. It filters our air and water, buffers the environment from extreme weather, and harbors a superabundance of life. We are only beginning to realize the incredible diversity of the old growth forest, what was once considered rich only in the sheer mass of timber becomes more complex with every research project. British Columbian old growth forests have helped advance the worlds understanding of the interactions between fungal networks and soil microflora. These forests are the reservoir of isolated gene pockets and valuable specimens, and in the long run, they are worth more to us uncut.
We need to shift our view of old growth forests as a commodity only in the form of the wood they contain, to a grander vision that includes refuge for wildlife, products for people and a reservoir of potential medicines and food. We urge you to undertake a Provincial Old-Growth Strategy that will inventory and protect forever the remaining old-growth forests.
Please, let us lead the way in ceasing completely the practice of old growth logging.
The potential value of our indigenous species, quality of air and water, enhanced carbon capture, indigenous rights, tourism dollars, & forest products is worth far, far more than the price per board foot of our magnificent, time travelling trees.
Old growth is a connection that crosses any barrier of religion or culture or species. Let us value ours enough that they remain for the next generations.
