About the Forest Practices Board

The Forest Practices Board conducts audits and investigations and issues public reports on how well industry and government are meeting the intent of British Columbia's forest practices legislation. While it does not lay penalties, its recommendations have led directly to improved forest practices such as stronger government decision-making processes and better communication among forestry professionals to manage risks to the environment.

Although other jurisdictions have forest watchdog bodies, BC may be the only one with an arms-length relationship from government, and a mandate to hold both government and the forest industry publicly accountable for forestry practices. It chooses which operations to audit, and its reports and findings are published without government revisions or comments.

By law, the board must audit government and industry forestry practices, and it must deal with complaints from the public regarding forest practices and government enforcement. In addition, it may carry out special investigations and may appeal decisions made by government officials, such as determinations of non-compliance, penalties and approvals of plans for forestry or range operations.

The appointed board members represent a broad range of expertise and experience in forestry and the environment from across the province. Its staff of professional foresters, biologists, accountants and lawyers conduct the audits and investigations and report to the board, which makes recommendations to the forest industry or government.

For more information on the Forest Practices Board, please see our Media or Publications section located on the left Navigation Bar.