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FPAC report aims to advance caribou recovery solutions

Forest Sector Contributions to Woodland Caribou Recovery was released today by FPAC CEO Derek Nighbor in conjunction with the annual meeting of the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers in Halifax.

The report includes a compendium of projects and initiatives taking place across the country as part of the Canadian forest products sector’s active efforts to support caribou recovery. The report highlights multiple factors impacting caribou populations, and the unique position Canada’s forestry professionals are in to support caribou recovery with science, research, and by advancing on the ground partnerships.

Canada forest products sector is recognized globally as a model for sustainable forest management. Professional foresters across the country plan harvests through the lens of 150+ year timeframes to ensure we can enjoy our Canadian forests for generations to come. They also consider several forest values including fire risk mitigation, protecting watersheds, and preserving wetlands, in addition to maintaining habitat for the over 500 mammals, birds, and fish who call the forest home.

“Caribou recovery planning is one part of this important web of work we undertake in our forests every day,” said FPAC CEO Derek Nighbor. “Today’s report provides insights into a number of the activities that are making a difference in supporting caribou recovery while recognizing it is important to find solutions that consider all wildlife species living in our forests, including caribou. Our made in Canada approach to forest management is rooted in planning for the entire ecosystem which will help us keep our forests healthy for generations to come, and will help us sustain rural and northern communities and family-supporting jobs across Canada,” he added.

To help support the viable implementation of Canada’s Species at Risk Act (SARA) and Recovery Strategies (Boreal and Southern Mountain Caribou), FPAC is committed to continuing our work with federal and provincial governments on the following recommended approaches:

• Recognition and use of the most recent and complete science and knowledge in caribou plans and further commitment to address knowledge gaps
• Regional flexibility is acknowledged in caribou planning (e.g. disturbance thresholds, buffer widths and habitat definitions)
• Recovery Strategy implementation requires that a thorough socio-economic assessment be done with the engagement of impacted parties as well as integrated approaches that balance needs of other species on the landscape
• Recognition of progressive recovery contribution to date, including the utilization of more tools within SARA, which could include the use of Conservation Agreements, and codes and standards to support caribou recovery and allow for greater certainty for our sector to make important community investment decisions
• Inclusion of the forest sector, Indigenous communities, practitioners, and municipalities in the development of caribou plans

“Canada’s forests and forestry workers create real environmental, social, and economic opportunities for our country,” said Nighbor. “This report and its recommendations reflect an ongoing commitment from the dedicated professionals in our sector to work with all levels of government, Indigenous communities, researchers and scientists, and local community groups to support caribou recovery across Canada,” he concluded.

The efforts and initiatives within Forest Sector Contributions to Woodland Caribou Recovery have been undertaken in partnership with a host of leaders from various communities including provincial governments, Indigenous communities, scientists, environmental groups, worker groups, and local municipalities. 

Find the report here: www.fpac.ca/forest-sector-contributions-to-woodland-caribou-recovery/