Ministry of Forests Preps for Climate Change

By 250 News

A warmer climate means trees may become poorly adapted to the areas they currently call home, although it could mean other geographical areas could open up for growth.

There will likely be an increase in the incidence of outbreaks of insect and disease, for example; the mountain pine beetle’s longevity has been credited to warmer winters.

There may be more frequent and more severe fires, ice storms floods and droughts.

Warmer winters could reduce the length of the winter logging season as well as have an impact on roads, bridges and culverts.

The report says the effects would not just be felt by the communities which rely on the forestry sector.  It points out that if the local economies are hurt, there will also be reduced tax revenues for the provincial and federal governments.    The impact on the ecosystem has yet to be measured, but the report says there are bound to be implications for the air and water purification role the forests provide not to mention wildlife habitat, medicinal plants, erosion control and nutrient recycling.

What can be done to prepare for the changes?

The report says there is so much forest in B.C., much will have to adapt on its own, while human intervention will have to be limited to major commercial tree species.

There are 13 short term recommendations under three main headings, of

“A” research and analysis, 

“B” reviewing operational policies and practices and  

“C” building awareness within and outside the Ministry.

The full report is available for review, in fact the Ministry is looking for public input.  Comments will be accepted until the 31st of July.

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