On June 1st, I tuned into the announcement of the BC Government Intention Paper for modernizing forest practices. I had hoped old-growth forests might be thrown a lifeline. No such luck.
Premier Horgan and Forest Minister Conroy were all smiles as they described how the forest industry will gradually transition from volume to value and smaller operators will get a piece of the pie. The three invited guests selected to represent First Nations, Industry, and Union workers, gave speeches that endorsed the plan.
When asked why scientists were not represented at this press conference, Premier Horgan said something to the effect that there are lots of scientists in government and industry.
Do you remember when Stephen Harper wouldn’t let government scientists mention climate change? Do you think provincial biologists feel free to point out the urgency of saving old-growth forests for the values they provide? What about industry biologists?
The only lifeline the old-growth forests have for now is the endless line of people willing to stand up for them.