B.C. earmarks $50M to increase fibre supply, support forestry workers

The B.C. government is providing $50 million in new funding to help the province’s forest industry.

Premier David Eby made the announcement at the Truck Loggers Association (TLA) convention in Vancouver yesterday.

“Our focus is to keep mills running, and your members working,” Eby told the conference delegates. “We know that access to fibre is one of the most critical challenges facing the industry and we’re working hard to find new sources.”

Eby said the funds would be funnelled through the Forest Enhancement Society of BC (FESBC). He added that funding will be used for projects and programs that increase the use of low-value or residual fibre, including trees damaged by recent wildfires and waste left over from logging that would otherwise be burned in slash piles. This will mean more work for forestry contractors hauling fibre, he said.

“Programs to assist in short-term mitigation for our workers and communities is welcomed. Our desire is that this leads to part of the reforms needed to ensure longer-term sustainability of our members,” said Bob Brash, TLA executive director.

“The FESBC is a proven partner in delivering projects on the ground that benefit communities, workers, and the health of our forests,” said Bruce Ralston, Minister of Forests in a statement. “Forestry is – and will remain – a foundation of B.C.’s economy. As market prices have declined, forestry workers should know that government has their backs. That’s why we are taking action today and providing increased funding to get more fibre to the mills that need it.”

Click here to learn more about the new funding.