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Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 1 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
Table of Contents1. Signatures 42. Interpretation 5
2.1 Definitions under Acts and Regulations .......................................................................................................... 5
2.2. Definitions Specific to this FSP ....................................................................................................................... 5
2.3. Objectives, Results, Strategies and Measures................................................................................................ 5
2.4. Common Acronyms Used in forestry and occasionally within this FSP.......................................................... 6
3. Application of the FSP 73.1 Term of the FSP ............................................................................................................................................... 7
3.2 Content Requirements .................................................................................................................................... 7
3.3 Forest Development Units (FDU’s) .................................................................................................................. 7
3.3.1 Forest Development Units in Effect on Date of Submission......................................................... 7
3.3.2 New FDUs & Rationale .......................................................................................................... 8
4. Public Review and Comment 95. Results and Strategies for Objectives Set by Government 10
5.1 Land Use Objectives ...................................................................................................................................... 10
5.1.1 Biodiversity Emphasis.............................................................................................................. 10
5.1.2 Old and Mature Forest ............................................................................................................ 10
5.1.3 Caribou ................................................................................................................................... 13
5.1.4 Green-up ................................................................................................................................ 13
5.1.5 Grizzly Bear Habitat and Connectivity Corridor......................................................................... 13
5.1.6 Consumptive Use Streams ....................................................................................................... 14
5.1.7 Enhanced Resource Development Zones (ERDZ)....................................................................... 14
5.1.8 Fire Maintained Ecosystems .................................................................................................... 15
5.1.1.9 Visuals ................................................................................................................................. 15
5.2 Objectives prescribed under FRPA sec. 149(1).............................................................................................. 15
5.2.1 Soils........................................................................................................................................ 15
5.2.2 Timber .................................................................................................................................... 16
5.2.3 Wildlife ................................................................................................................................... 16
5.2.3.1 Species at Risk...................................................................................................................... 17
5.2.3.2 Ungulate Winter Range ........................................................................................................ 18
5.2.4 Water, Fish, Wildlife and Biodiversity within Riparian Areas..................................................... 18
5.2.5 Fish Habitat in Fisheries Sensitive Watersheds ......................................................................... 20
5.2.6 Water in Community Watersheds ............................................................................................ 20
5.2.7 Wildlife and Biodiversity – Landscape Level ............................................................................. 23
5.2.8 Wildlife and Biodiversity – Stand Level..................................................................................... 23
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 2 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
5.2.9 Visual Quality.......................................................................................................................... 24
5.2.10 Cultural Heritage Resources................................................................................................... 24
5.3 Objectives Prescribed Under the Government Actions Regulation (GAR).................................................... 25
5.3.1 Visuals .................................................................................................................................... 26
5.3.2 Ungulate Winter Range ........................................................................................................... 26
5.3.3 Wildlife Habitat Areas ............................................................................................................. 26
5.3.4 Caribou ................................................................................................................................... 27
5.3.5 Grizzly Bear............................................................................................................................. 27
5.4 Objective for Items Listed in Section 181 of FRPA ........................................................................................ 28
5.4.1 Interpretive Forest Sites, Recreation Sites or Recreation Trails ................................................. 28
5.4.2 Visual Quality Objectives......................................................................................................... 28
6. Measures 296.1 Measures for Preventing the Introduction or Spread of Invasive Plants ...................................................... 29
6.2 Mitigating the Loss of Natural Range Barriers............................................................................................... 30
7. Additional FSP Information 307.1 Stocking Standards ........................................................................................................................................ 30
7.2 Cumulative Effect of Multiple FSP’s .............................................................................................................. 31
8. References 319. Appendices 34
I. Arrow and Kootenay Lake FDU Maps............................................................................................................... 34
II. Arrow and Kootenay Lake FDU’s Stocking Standards – See the following pages. .......................................... 35
III. Referral List..................................................................................................................................................... 49
IV. First Nation / Stakeholder Referral Letters .................................................................................................... 50
V. Public Review and Comment........................................................................................................................... 52
VI. FSP Amendment Ledger…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...58
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 3 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
Forest Stewardship Plan
June 28, 2017 – June 27, 2022
Forest Licences: A20193 and A20218
Box 460
Fruitvale, B.C. V0G 1Y0
Phone: (250) 367-9441 Fax: (250) 367-6210
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 5 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
2. Interpretation
2.1 Definitions under Acts and Regulations
Unless specifically indicated otherwise, terms used in this Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP) have the same meaning
as they are defined in relevant British Columbia acts and regulations.
2.2. Definitions Specific to this FSP“FRPA Value” means one or more of the following:
a) Soils
b) Visual quality
c) Timber
d) Forage and associated plant communities
e) Water
f) Fish
g) Wildlife
h) Biodiversity
i) Recreation resources
j) Resource features
k) Cultural heritage resources
“Qualified Professional” means a person deemed by Atco Wood Products Ltd (AWP) to be qualified, in terms of
appropriate levels of education, training, and experience (skill sets), to conduct the activities described. Where
the activities fall within the scope of practice of members of a professional regulatory body this person will be a
Qualified Registered Professional.
"Qualified Registered Professional" means a person who:
(a) in the opinion of AWP, has the appropriate education, training and experience to carry out the activity;
and
(b) is a member of, or licensed by, a regulatory body in British Columbia that has the legislated authority to
regulate its members' performance of the activity.
“Reasonable opportunity for review and comment” means a written referral letter (either mailed or sent
electronically), provided by AWP with a specified time (generally either 30 or 60 days) allowed for providing
comments in order for the comments to be considered.
2.3. Objectives, Results, Strategies and Measures
The Forest and Range Practices Act (FRPA) requires that a FSP specify results or strategies in relation to
objectives set by government and to specify measures related to invasive plants and natural range barriers.
With regard to these requirements, the following interpretations have been used in the preparation of this FSP:
“Objective” means an objective that is set by government, in legally established land use plans, in regulation, or
enabled through regulation, for managing and protecting forest and range values.
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 6 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
“Result” means a description of measureable or verifiable outcomes for a particular established objective and
the situations or circumstances that determine where the outcomes will be applied.
“Strategy” means a description of measureable or verifiable steps or practices that will be carried out to meet a
particular established objective, and the situations or circumstances that determine where the steps or
practices will be applied.
“Measure” means a course of action taken or planned to achieve a particular purpose. With regard to FSPs,
measures must be specified to (1) prevent the introduction or spread of invasive plants and (2) mitigate the
effect of removing or rendering ineffective natural range barriers. Measures are intended to be reasonable and
appropriate when considering what is likely to be effective and what is practicable.
“Measurable” means with respect to Results and Strategies to be able to be measured, qualified or calculated.
“Verifiable” means with respect to Results and Strategies to be able to be verified, proven, authenticated or
demonstrated.
2.4. Common Acronyms Used in forestry and occasionally within this FSP.
ATW: Atco Wood Products Ltd.BCTS: British Columbia Timber SalesBEC: Biogeoclimatic Ecosystem ClassificationCHR: Cultural Heritage ResourceCP: Cutting PermitCRA: Controlled Recreation AreaDDM: Delegated Decision MakerFDU: Forest Development UnitFL: Forestry LicenceFPC: Forest Practices Code of BC ActFPPR: Forest Planning and Practices RegulationFRPA: Forest and Range Practices ActFRR: Forest Recreation RegulationFSP: Forest Stewardship PlanGAR: Government Actions RegulationGWM: General Wildlife MeasureILMB: Integrated Land Management BureauKBHLPO: Kootenay-Boundary Higher Level Plan OrderKLC: Kalesnikoff Lumber Co. LtdLU: Landscape UnitMFLNRO: Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource OperationsNDT: Natural Disturbance TypeOGMA: Old Growth Management AreaQP: Qualified ProfessionalQRP: Qualified Registered ProfessionalRMZ: Riparian Management ZoneRP: Road PermitRPF: Registered Professional ForesterRRZ: Riparian Reserve ZoneSAR: Species at RiskSU: Standards UnitTSA: Timber Supply Area
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 7 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
TSR: Timber Supply Review
UWR: Ungulate Winter Range
VIA: Visual Impact Assessment
VQO: Visual Quality Objective
WHA: Wildlife Habitat Area
WTP: Wildlife Tree Patch
WTRA: Wildlife Tree Retention Area
3. Application of the FSP
3.1 Term of the FSP
Legal Reference: FRPA s 6(1)(a), 6(2), & 14
The term of this FSP is five years, commencing from the date of approval by the Delegated Decision Maker
(DDM) for the Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations or another date as specified by the
DDM. The existing FSP expires on June 20, 2017.
3.2 Content Requirements
Content requirements of a FSP are described in the Forest and Range Practices Act (FRPA) and its associatedForest Planning and Practices Regulation (FPPR).
A separate document, Atco Wood Products Ltd Forest Stewardship Plan Supporting Document, providessupporting (non-legal) information for this plan. The supporting document is prepared to ensure a consistentapproach to planning is undertaken within Atco’s operations
3.3 Forest Development Units (FDU’s)
3.3.1 Forest Development Units in Effect on Date of Submission
These FDU’s were defined by existing chart areas (designated locations where Atco Wood Products (AWP) has
been assigned to operate under the authority of Forest Licences (FL’s) A20193 (Arrow TSA) and A20218
(Kootenay Lake TSA).
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 8 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
Table 1: Existing Forest Development Units
TSA Forest Development Unit(FDU)
Gross AreaHectares (Ha)
Arrow / Boundary – FLA20193
Boulder Creek 1018
Champion 7439
Divide 5971
Erie 5884
Huckleberry 444
Jordan 6575
Ladybird 14100
Mackie 7045
Murphy 11777
Nancy Greene Highland (NGH) 4523
Nancy Greene North (NGN) 10758
Nancy Greene South (NGS) 9053
Pend-d’Oreille 7373
Sheppard 6300
Siwash 5131
Total 105067
Kootenay Lake – FLA20218 Kootenay Lake 14349
Total 14349
3.3.2 New FDUs & Rationale
Legal Reference: FPPR, s14
New FDUs: The overview map in Figure 1 shows the 2 FDUs comprising this FSP.
Table 2: Landscape Units contained within the Arrow and Kootenay Lake FDU’s.
FDU Landscape Unit (LU)
Arrow (Arrow TSA) N501-N509, N511 & N512
Kootenay Lake (Kootenay Lake
TSA)
K9, K11
Rationale:
The above 2 FDUs, one in the Arrow TSA and the other in Kootenay Lake TSA, have been created to encompass
LUs where Atco’s existing Chart areas lie plus some adjacent LUs. Entire LUs have been used as KBHLPO
objectives are largely based on these units. In addition, LUs are often defined by heights of land, watershed
boundaries, major rivers, Lakes and other topographically significant features which are the same common units
used for planning purposes. All crownland area based tenures (ie. woodlots, Community Forest Licences, etc.)
are excluded from these FDU’s.
With regard to covering area outside Atco’s operating (Chart) area, the intent is to avoid FSP amendments made
to allow road access, topographic breaks, licensee operating area switching and other logistical measures.
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 9 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
Where Atco is going to propose forest development within another licensee’s operating area, the company will
consult with the other licensee to establish a mutually acceptable agreement. It is anticipated this will reduce
the cases that necessitate amendments to this FSP.
Appendix I contains a map of the Arrow and Kootenay Lake FDU’s identifying the features required as per FPPR,
Section 14; with the exception of the Cutting Permits and Road Permits, which can be viewed on iMapBC
following the instructions below:
iMapBC link: http://maps.gov.bc.ca/ess/sv/imapbc/
Note: iMapBC may not work in all browsers. Currently, it will not work using Microsoft Edge. Google Chrome
and Internet Explorer both work at this point.
Instructions to add cut block and road permit roads:
• Once in iMapBC, zoom into area of interest.
• Click on Zoom in and draw a box in area of interest
• Click the Map & Data Sources tab
• Click Add Provincial Layers
• To the left of Licenses and Permits, hit the ‘plus’ sign to expand that category
• Check the boxes beside Forest Cut Blocks and Forest Road Sections layers
• Click Apply, then OK
• If layers do not appear, you may have to zoom in more.
4. Public Review and Comment
Legal reference: Forest Planning and Practices Regulation section 20, 21 and 22
Forest Stewardship Plan Notification and Stakeholder Referral:
The general public was made aware the Forest Stewardship Plan was available for review and comment through
notices placed in local newspapers and through referral notices that were emailed or mailed out to potentially
affected stakeholders. Atco is committed to meeting with any stakeholder who wants further information, or
has concerns or further questions. A copy of the public notice and referral list of stakeholders (including First
Nations) who received letters or emails are included in Appendix III.
The Forest Stewardship Plan was made available for public review and comment at the licence holder’s office
during regular business hours 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday for a period of 60 days (Aug 15, 2016 to
Oct 14, 2016). In these referral notices Atco has encouraged any affected stakeholders and First Nations
representatives to meet to discuss the Forest Stewardship Plan. A copy of the First Nations and Stakeholders
referral letters is provided in Appendix IV.
Public and Stakeholder’s Comment:
Appendix V contains a summary of the public/ stakeholder referrals sent, comments received and associated
response.
Written comments specific to the Forest Stewardship Plan have been recorded and kept on record to ensure
that concerns are considered at the development stage.
CASTLEGAR
TRAIL
ROSSLAND
FRUITVALE
NELSON
SALMO
L O W E R A R R O W L A K E
K09
N505
N512
N506
N503
N501
N508
K11
N511
N502
N509N507
N504
Arrow FDU
Kootenay Lake FDU
K O O T E N A Y L A K E
FOREST STEWARDSHIP PLANOverview Map
Date: August 2, 2016Datum: NAD 83
Projection: UTM Zone 11Scale: 1:400,000
Landscape Unit (LU)
Private Land
Major Rivers/LakesForest Development Unit (FDU)
TownshipParks
OWNERSHIP:
OTHER FEATURES:
Highway/ Main RoadN508
Atco Chart
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 10 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
Operational-Forest Development Referrals:
The licence holder is committed to continual information sharing and will refer all forest development- site level
plans (i.e.: roads and cut-blocks) to potentially affected stakeholders whose rights may be affected by a
proposed development with an opportunity to review the proposed development in a manner that is
commensurate with the nature and extent to which the stakeholders’ rights may be affected. A written
notification of planned forest development will be referred to potentially affected stakeholders. The written
notice will provide stakeholders with a minimum 30 day review and comment period prior to cutting permit
application. The notice may be reduced to 10 days if timber is dead, infested with pests or otherwise damaged;
and must be harvested expeditiously to prevent spread of pests or declining timber value due to deterioration
of quality.
5. Results and Strategies for Objectives Set by Government
5.1 Land Use Objectives
The area under this Forest Stewardship Plan is within the scope of the Kootenay Boundary Higher Level Plan
Order effective October 26, 2002, and all approved variances to it. Where there is a conflict between the
Kootenay Boundary Higher Level Plan Order and objectives set by Forest and Range Practices Act and its
regulations, the Kootenay Boundary Higher Level Plan Order objectives and strategies will prevail to the extent
of the discrepancy.
Unless specified under each objective, it is assumed the Results and Strategies apply to both the Arrow and
Kootenay Lake FDU’s.
5.1.1 Biodiversity Emphasis
Objective: To contribute to the conservation of biodiversity, through the assignment of
biodiversity emphasis to each landscape unit.
Legal Reference: KBHLPO – Objective I
Relates to: s 5.1.2 of this document.
Results and Strategies
The licence holder will undertake to comply with Objective 1 of Kootenay Boundary Higher
Level Plan Order (KBHLPO).
5.1.2 Old and Mature Forest
Objective: To maintain mature forests and old forests to levels indicated in the Kootenay
Boundary Higher Level Plan.
Legal Reference: KBHLPO, Objective 2
Relates to: s 5.1.1 of this document.
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 11 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
Results and Strategies
The licence holder will undertake to comply with Objective 2 of Kootenay Boundary Higher
Level Plan Order.
Old Forest:
Old Forest requirements, applying to all FDU’s, are currently fulfilled and managed with non-
legal spatialized Old Growth Management Areas (OGMAs) that were established to provide
representative examples of Old Forest values, and to support the conservation of other
important values, such as wildlife habitat, connectivity, rare ecosystems, recreation and
cultural-heritage.
The Old Growth Management Strategy allows the licence holder to manage the Old Forest
distribution based on current information. Modifications to the boundaries of established
OGMA’s can be implemented as long as the modification is replaced by a commensurable area
with similar forest attributes, or where a Qualified Registered Professional (QRP) determines
that a forest stand has sufficient biological value to be an Old Forest (as per superscript “k” of
Table 2.6 of the KBHLPO).
The prescribing QRP will identify replacement OGMAs that maintain either similar forest
attributes as found in the original OGMA or enhance old forest attributes; while also focusing
on other important values, such as wildlife habitat, rare ecosystems, recreation, First Nations
cultural values and cultural values of communities within the Kootenays. In addition, there is a
preference to locate replacement OGMA’s where harvesting constraints provide the best long
term potential for stands to develop old forest attributes associated with advanced age.
OGMA modifications will be field assessed and approved by a QRP, where a written rationale
and accompanying map denoting the modifications will be prepared and kept on record in the
license holder’s office. These modifications will be made to Atco’s digital mapping at the time
the rationale is drafted. These changes to OGMAs will be sent to the MFLNRO upon request.
When considering potential OGMA replacements the key old growth attributes that are
evaluated are: age, large branches, dead tops, scars/conks, cavity nesting bird holes,
proximity to riparian or unique old features, wildlife value, size (diameter & height) and
contiguity with adjacent OG.
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 12 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
There are circumstances where very minor tree removal is required within OGMAs to facilitate
harvesting and or safety. These are danger tree hazards adjacent forest activities and where
tail holds or guy line tiebacks are required for cable harvesting. The QRP will write a rationale
for these situations and extra effort will be made to minimize these circumstances.
Mature Forest:
The mature requirements only apply to the Arrow FDU within the Landscape Units (LU) and
BEC subzones / variants as shown below:
LU BEC subzone/ variant BEO
N501-Sheep Creek ICHdw intermediate
N504-Pend’Oreille ICHdw intermediate
N505-Stagleap ICHdw intermediate
N508-Blueberry ICHdw intermediate
N509-Dog ICHdw intermediate
N511-Cayuse ICHdw intermediate
It is the responsibility of the licence holder to determine existing seral stage distribution and
levels of Old plus Mature Forest in which Landscape Unit they operate. The licence holder is a
subscriber to the Higher Level Plan Objectives Reporting Suite application that allows users to
produce reports reflecting the rules embodied in the KBHLPO for meeting Old plus Mature
Forest requirements. GeoData BC provides source planning data for the application; the
reporting suite application models the source data and produces summary tables the licence
holder will use to determine existing seral stage distribution and levels of Old plus Mature
Forest.
The Higher Level Plan Objectives Reporting Suite application can be found at:
http://www.kootenayspatial.ca/pg_hlpo/login.jsp
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 13 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
5.1.3 Caribou
Objective: To retain seasonal habitats for Mountain Caribou in order to contribute to maintaining
viability of the existing subpopulations according to forest cover requirements in the
Kootenay Boundary Higher Level Plan.
Legal Reference: KBHLPO, Objective 3 (replaced by variance Order KBHLP-04) and the addition of
Variance 6, GAR’s 9(2) and 12(1).
Relates to: s 5.3.4 of this document.
Applies to: Kootenay Lake FDU and LU 505 in Arrow FDU.
Portions of FDU applicable:
• Arrow FDU: LU: N505
• Kootenay Lake FDU: LU’s: K9 & K11
Results and Strategies
KBHLPO Objective 3 was cancelled and replaced with GAR ORDER – Ungulate Winter Range #U-
4-012 Mountain Caribou – Southwest Kootenay Planning Unit, under the authority of GAR
section 9(2) and 12(1) February 12, 2009. ORDER – Ungulate Winter Range #U-4-012 was
subsequently replaced December 9, 2009.
The holder will undertake to comply with these GAR Orders.
5.1.4 Green-up
Objective: To establish a Green-up under the stipulations of KBHLPO, Objective 4.
Legal Reference: KBHLPO, Objective 4.
Results and Strategies
The licence holder will undertake to comply with Objective 4 of KBHLPO.
5.1.5 Grizzly Bear Habitat and Connectivity Corridor
Objective: To maintain mature and/ or old forests adjacent to important grizzly bear
habitat and within connectivity.
Legal Reference: KBHLPO – Objective 5
Grizzly Bear
Relates to: s 5.3.5 of this document for FDU’s and LU’s covered by Grizzly GAR.
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 14 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
Results and Strategies
The licence holder will undertake to comply with Objective 5 of KBHLPO.
5.1.6 Consumptive Use Streams
Objective: To reduce the impacts of forest development on streams licensed for human
consumption.
Legal Reference: KBHLPO – Objective 6
Relates to: s 5.2.4 and 5.2.6 of this document
Results and Strategies
Definitions for the purpose of this section:
• “Activities” in objective 6(1)(a)(i) of the KHLPO means primary forest activities.
The holder will undertake to comply with Objective 6 of the KBHLPO.
For each S5 and S6 stream where the streamside management zone applies, the holder willplan and implement primary forest activities only if, in the opinion of a QRP, implementing theplan;
a. Will not cause material that is harmful to human health to be deposited in, ortransported to, water that is diverted for human consumption by a licensedwaterworks, and
b. Will not damage a licensed waterworks.c. Will not result in locating stream crossings within 50m (slope distance) upslope of
known intakes unless there is no practicable option.d. Will result in re-vegetating of cut banks and fill slopes within one growing season
following disturbance (as soil and weather conditions allow). See the grass seedingmeasures portion of Section 6.1 of this document for details.
5.1.7 Enhanced Resource Development Zones (ERDZ)
Objective: To support forest management for the purpose of increasing volumes of
merchantable timber and to reduce industry costs while maintaining adequate
environmental stewardship.
Legal Reference: KBHLPO – Objective 7; FPPR s 65(3)(a) & 65(3)(b)ii
Results and Strategies
The licence holder will undertake to comply with Objective 7 of KBHLPO. The minimum green-
up height will be as per section 5.2.7 of this FSP
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 15 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
5.1.8 Fire Maintained Ecosystems
Objective: To restore and maintain the ecological integrity of fire-maintained ecosystem
components in Natural Disturbance Type (NDT) 4.
Legal Reference: KBHLPO – Objective 8
Applicable FDU: None
Results and Strategies
The map has not been established for this objective and therefore the fire maintained
ecosystem objective is not in effect.
5.1.1.9 Visuals
Objective: To conserve the quality of views from communities, major waterways, and
major highways by establishing areas known as scenic areas.
Legal Reference: KBHLPO – Objective 9
Relates to: s 5.2.9, 5.3.1, and 5.4.2 of this document
Results and Strategies
See Section 5.3.1 of this document
5.2 Objectives prescribed under FRPA sec. 149(1)
5.2.1 Soils
Objective: The objective set by government for soils is, without unduly reducing the supply
of timber from British Columbia’s forests, to conserve the productivity and the
hydrologic function of soils.
Legal Reference: FRPA section 5 and 12.1(1)
Results and Strategies
The license holder will undertake to comply with Forest Planning and Practices Regulation
section 35 and 36.
In a situation where a block contains existing road and the 7% PAS is exceeded (at the
planning/pre-harvest stage), then a QRP will identify this in a rationale, which will be kept in
the holder’s files.
If the Permanent Access Structures (PAS) built by the holder exceeds 7%, then a QRP will write
a rationale at the development layout stage which identifies why this disturbance level is
exceeded. This limit will be set in accordance with Section 36(1) or (2) of the FPPR. Where the
PAS exceeds 7% (typically smaller blocks with roads which access further cut blocks), this will
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 16 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
be specified in the Site Plan and this document, along with the rationale will be kept on record
in the holder’s office
5.2.2 Timber
Objective: To maintain or enhance an economically valuable supply of commercial timber
while
ensuring that delivered wood is competitive in relation to equivalent costs in
relation to regulated primary forest activities in other jurisdictions.
Legal Reference: FPPR, s. 6
Relates to: s 7.2 and Appendix II of this document
5.2.3 Wildlife
Objective: The objective set by government for wildlife is, without unduly reducing the
supply of timber from British Columbia’s forests, to conserve sufficient wildlife
habitat in terms of amounts of area, distribution of areas and attributes of
those areas, for the survival of species at risk, the survival of regionally
important wildlife, and the winter survival of specified ungulate species.
Legal Reference: FPPR sec. 7 and GAR’s 9-13
Relates to: s 5.3.2, 5.3.3, 5.3.4, and 5.3.5 of this document
Results and Strategies
The stocking standards shown in section 7.2 and Appendix 2 of this document show the rules
for the establishment of managed forests. These managed forests will provide an enhanced
supply of commercial timber, as opposed to the prior natural established forests.
The holder will work in conjunction with the Ministry to maintain or enhance the Timber
Supply (ie. Timber Supply Review - Annual Allowable Cut). This will involve using
technologically improved harvest machines, harvesting existing non-merchantable tree species
and better utilization. AWP will assist in providing the best/ most current information used in
Timber Supply Reviews.
Annually, the MFLNRO carries out an overview flight to assess the damage done by Forest
Health agents. With the resulting map, the holder will establish salvage plans and implement
control measures if applicable. In addition, the holder is committed to working with the various
Forest Health strategies established by the Ministry.
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 17 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
5.2.3.1 Species at Risk
Pursuant to section 7(3) of the FPPR, the license holder is exempt from the obligation to prepare results or
strategies in relation to the objective set out in section 7(1) of the FPPR given the established Wildlife Habitat
Areas address the amount of area required to meet habitat requirements and specify general wildlife measures
to maintain the identified wildlife within those areas. Requirements are met with respect to WHA for Interior
Western Screech Owl and Grizzly Bear. The Coeur d’ Alene Salamander and Flammulated Owl are the exception,
where the required amount and distribution of Wildlife Habitat Areas have not been satisfied.
FPPR section 7 notices are tracked through the following website:
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/frpa/notices/sar.html
Species at risk, for which the license holder will provide special management, are for the most part limited to
vertebrate species designated as Red or Blue by the Ministry of Environment, or as Endangered, Threatened or
Special Concern (listed on Species at Risk Public Registry schedule 1) by the Committee on the Status of
Endangered Wildlife in Canada. The Schedule 1 can be found at the following website:
http://www.registrelep-sararegistry.gc.ca/species/schedules_e.cfm?id=1
SAR Accounts and Measures documents for identified wildlife can be found at:
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/frpa/iwwms/accounts.html
Results and Strategies
Annual training will be conducted by the license holder to support the license holder’s staff and
contractors in identifying species at risk and wildlife habitat. Training will involve the
identification of species at risk, habitat attributes, habitat suitability, reporting and best
management practices.
The British Columbia Species and Ecosystem Explorer Tool will be incorporated into the training
and utilized to generate information on species and ecological communities, including
conservation or legal status, and spatial distribution.
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/atrisk/toolintro.html
Reporting:
Should any of the species at risk be observed outside of known occurrence sites, the license
holder will notify the Conservation Data Center and inform them of the occurrence. This
reporting will be done within 6 months from the time at which the species is observed.
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 18 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
The British Columbia Conservation Data Centre: Data Submissions website will be utilized to
submit observations of species at risk.
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/cdc/contribute.html
Practice:
In an effort to reduce the impact of forest development on species at risk, during the planning
process, the license holder will review known species at risk occurrences and their proximity to
development areas. Where there are known species at risk in proximity to development areas,
best management practices as found within the British Columbia Species and Ecosystem
Explorer Tool will be used to ensure that proposed development activities are planned and
carried out in compliance with various legislation, regulation and policies.
If a species at risk is encountered during operations, activities will be halted immediately and
will not resume until a QRP has assessed and provided recommendation. Continuance of
operational activities is to be consistent with the recommendations of the QRP.
The license holder will ensure, where there may be a conflict with a species at risk, the
following best management practices will be used:
•The license holder will only conduct primary forestry activities consistent with the
requirements in Wildlife Habitat Area orders.
•License holder’s staff and contractors will be trained to identify potential wildlife habitat.
•Where possible, retain existing, natural habitats suitable for the species at risk.
•Strive to retain, restore, or enhance key habitat features.
•Seek the advice of a QRP if attempting to restore or enhance habitat.
5.2.3.2 Ungulate Winter RangeSee section 5.3.2 and 5.3.4 of this document.
5.2.4 Water, Fish, Wildlife and Biodiversity within Riparian Areas
Objective: The objective set by government for water, fish, wildlife and biodiversity within
riparian areas is, without unduly reducing the supply of timber from British
Columbia’s forests, to conserve, at the landscape level, the water quality, fish
habitat, wildlife habitat and biodiversity associated with those riparian areas.
Legal Reference: FPPR s. 8, 12.1(2), 12(3), 47-51, 52(2) and 55-58
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 19 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
Section 53 of the FPPR applies to designated Temperature Sensitive Streams. There are no designated
Temperature Sensitive Streams in the FDU areas at present.
Results and Strategies
The holder will undertake to comply with FPPR s. 47-51, 52(2), 53 and 55-58.
The following result satisfies the requirement of FPPR 12(3):
a) When the holder harvests cut blocks or constructs roads, tree retention levels forthe riparian management zone are as follows:
Table 3: Riparian Class and Riparian Management Zone Retention On a Landscape Level
Stream Class Riparian Management Zone Retention
All
Streams,
Wetlands &
Lakes
Retain a minimum of 100 stems per hectare (SPH). Trees
selected to be retained in the RMZ will include the
following if present:
• non merchantable conifer trees / understory(greater than 1.3 m in height)
• wind-firm deciduous trees
• wind-firm trees with roots embedded in thebanks
• wind-firm wildlife treesThe role of these trees and understory vegetation are for
aiding in the conservation of water quality, fish habitat (if
present), wildlife habitat and biodiversity.
All S4, S5 streams;
Wetlands; Lakes;
& S6 within 200 meters
of a S1, S2 or S3 (with
the exception of
cable/aerial based
harvesting and
significant blowdown
risk)
As part of the minimum 100 SPH above; retain a
minimum of 50SPH of trees (deciduous or coniferous) of
merchantable size within 10 meters of the stream,
wetland or lake.
.
To clarify, all riparian management/reserve zones are slope distance.
The location, dispersement and tree selection for retention within the RMZ will be determined
on a site-specific basis by a QRP, considering local conditions (safety, windfirmness, prevailing
winds, stream channel – integrity/ stability/erosion potential, forest health factors, fish and
wildlife habitat, water quality, licensed consumptive water use and intake locations, vegetation
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 20 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
management and post-harvest silviculture treatments, coarse woody debris requirements,
hydrologic/ terrain stability concerns, visual quality, and timber/operational constraints).
In situations where 100% retention of part or all of the RMZ is prescribed (where Wildlife tree
attributes exist), this will contribute to wildlife tree retention at the stand and landscape level.
If a situation arises, where adequate stand and understory does not exist (at the pre-harvest
stage) to meet the requirements in Table 3, a QRP will be used to provide rationale and
recommendations.
To maintain stream bank and stream channel integrity on all streams, wetlands and lakes that
do not have a riparian reserve zone a minimum 5 m machine free zone will be established with
the exception of designated crossings. Deep rooted shrubs and brush will be retained within
this 5 meter zone to assist with stream integrity and shading. Logging slash accumulations
which potentially could affect streamflow will be removed. Large natural woody debris already
in the channel will not be removed. Construction of the designated crossings will be done in a
manner that waste and overburden is disposed of outside the 5m zone. Trees within the RMZ
will be felled and yarded away from streams where practicable unless a safety hazard dictates
otherwise.
5.2.5 Fish Habitat in Fisheries Sensitive Watersheds
Objective: To conserve, at the landscape level, the water quality, fish habitat, and
biodiversity associated with those riparian areas, without unduly reducing the
supply of timber.
Legal Reference: FPPR sec. 8.1
Applicable FDU: None
This objective is not applicable as there are no fisheries sensitive watersheds within the holder’s forestdevelopment units.
5.2.6 Water in Community Watersheds
Objective: The objective set by government for water being diverted for humanconsumption through a licensed waterworks in a community watershed is toprevent the cumulative hydrological effects of primary forest activities withinthe community watershed from resulting in a material adverse impact on thequantity of water or the timing of the flow of the water from the waterworks, orthe water from the waterworks having a material adverse impact on humanhealth that cannot be addressed by water treatment required under anenactment, or the license pertaining to the waterworks.
Legal Reference: FPPR sec. 8.2, 59-63 & 84
Applies to: All FDU’s except within the Arrow FDU in LU’s N501 and N504 (ie. Where CW’s
do not exist)
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 21 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
The table below lists the names of Community Watersheds within the Arrow and Kootenay lake FDUs,
along with the associated Landscape Unit:
Results and Strategies
The holder will undertake to comply with FPPR sec. 59-63 & 84 and the following:
1. If within those community watersheds, the holder intends to proceed with harvesting and
building roads, a QRP will assess the risk of those activities causing:
Community Watershed FDU (LU) Landscape Unit (LU)
Anderson Creek Kootenay Lake K09
Barret Creek Arrow N505
Bath Creek Arrow N503
Bird Creek Kootenay Lake K11
China Creek Arrow N508
Deer Creek Arrow N511
Eagle Creek Kootenay Lake K11
Elgood Creek Arrow N508
Five Mile Creek Kootenay Lake K09
Fruitvale Creek Arrow N503
Gander Creek Arrow N512
Glade Creek Arrow N507
Hanna Creek Arrow N502
Kelly Creek Arrow N503
Ladybird Creek Arrow N512
McNally Creek Arrow N508
Rover Creek Kootenay Lake K11
Sandy Creek Kootenay Lake K11
Selous Creek Kootenay Lake K09
South Murphy Arrow N508
Topping Creek Arrow N502
West Little Sheep Creek Arrow N502
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 22 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
a. Material that is known to be harmful to human health to be deposited in or
transported to water diverted for human consumption by a licensed waterworks, or
b. An increase in sediment delivery to the intake or causing sediment that is harmful to
human health to enter a stream, lake or wetland from which the water is being
diverted for human consumption.
2. If risk is low based on a QRP review of the relevant and available site specific hydrologic
information, the commitments below are not required.
3. If the risk is moderate or high based on the same criteria as in the low based above, the holder
will:
a. Before the commencement of harvesting or road construction, ensure that a
‘hydrologic assessment**’, including cumulative effects of all past and proposed
activities, be carried out by a QRP.
b. Evaluate the recommendations of the hydrologic assessment**,
c. Recommendations from QRPs are incorporated into harvest/site plans which are
established for all roads and cut blocks. Monitoring of these practices is done as part
of a mandatory established inspection program performed by company QRPs. At the
completion of harvesting a block or building a road the company QRP will fill out and
keep on record a post- harvest inspection to verify that the hydrological assessment
recommendations have been completed.
** For the purpose of the Strategy in this section ‘Hydrologic Assessment’ is a professional level
analysis, completed by a QRP, of existing and/or potential forest and other resources
development related effects on water and water related resources conducted at the site or
watershed level which will include one or more of the following:
• Overview of the watershed
• Watershed Report Card (GIS Analysis)
• Known cumulative effects of past and proposed activities
• Hydrologic risks of proposed development
• Specific recommendations or established thresholds for hazard mitigation
• Drainage Plan for roads
Climate change is now considered in hydrologic assessments to the extent of impact on
extreme events affecting peak and low flows (bridge/ culvert size determination) and other measures.
4. Results of Hydrologic Assessments will be shared with water user groups, upon request. In
cases where a meeting is held with water users; the details and recommendations are
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 23 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
explained. In watersheds which are shared with other forest licensees; these assessments are
shared.
5.2.7 Wildlife and Biodiversity – Landscape Level
Objective: The objective set by government for wildlife and biodiversity at the landscape level is,
without unduly reducing the supply of timber from British Columbia's forests and to the extent
practicable, to design areas on which timber harvesting is to be carried out that resemble, both spatially
and temporally, the patterns of natural disturbance that occur within the landscape.
Legal Reference: FPPR sec. 9
Relates to: s 5.1.4 of this document
Results and Strategies
Pursuant to objective 4 of the KBHLPO, when the holder plans and designs harvesting, the
holder will undertake to comply with sections 64 and 65 of the FPPR, except the 3m minimum
height will be changed to 2.5m in s. 65(3)(a) and s. 65(3)(b)(ii).
This reduced ‘green-up’ height will not apply to community watersheds and visually sensitive
areas.
5.2.8 Wildlife and Biodiversity – Stand Level
Objective: The objective set by government for wildlife and biodiversity at the stand level
is, without unduly reducing the supply of timber from British Columbia's forests,
to retain wildlife trees.
Legal Reference: FPPR sec. 9.1
Results and Strategies
The holder will undertake to comply with FPPR sec. 66 and 68.
The holder will undertake to comply with FPPR sec. 67 with the following exceptions:
• The holder may use trees in the wildlife tree retention area to facilitate harvesting
(i.e. for a ‘tail hold’)
• Felling and removal of a tree that is a safety hazard.
• In the opinion of a QRP:
o Felling and removal of a tree(s) that has been windthrown or damaged by
fire/insect/disease, unless that tree has significant wildlife habitat value.
o Where timber is highly susceptible to insect damage. Highly susceptible is defined
as a high or very high susceptible hazard class as indicated by a field assessment or
on MFLNRO susceptibility mapping and/or as defined within a MFLNRO Forest
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 24 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
Health Strategy and where the timber is within 200 meters of a current infested
(>30%stems per hectare of the stand) area.
o If a wildlife tree retention area is removed an alternate area of equal size within or
adjacent to the block will be located with similar wildlife attributes.
Trees of all species occurring within FDU’s may be selected as wildlife trees. Selection may
favor trees that provide valuable wildlife tree attributes including signs of internal decay, trees
with forks, large rotten branches, loose or cracked bark, recent scars, active wildlife use,
existing cavities, nest trees, veteran trees and other large wind firm trees with poor form for
sawlogs.
Forest Cover and Wildlife Habitat Attributes:
Preference will be given to locating wildlife tree retention area in stands that contain or have a
good likelihood of developing valuable wildlife tree attributes as described above. To maintain
biodiversity, an attempt will be made to preserve representation of all tree species found
throughout forest development units and focus on riparian management area, ungulate winter
range, old growth management area and other areas where harvesting constraints provide the
best long term potential for stands to develop wildlife tree attributes associated with advanced
age. Root disease centers may also be selected to provide a continuing supply of dead and
dying trees to maintain coarse woody debris and biodiversity associated with stand openings.
Sites with habitat features such as nesting, roosting, denning, spawning and squirrel middens
may also be selected to provide protection of habitat critical to wildlife survival.
5.2.9 Visual Quality
Objective: This objective set by government does not contain specific text within the FPPR
as specified in other objectives set by government. This objective set by
government has been established under GARs for the Arrow and Kootenay Lake
TSAs.
Legal Reference: FPPR s. 9.2
Relates to: Sec. 5.1.9, 5.3.1 and 5.4.2 of this document.
Results and Strategies
See Section 5.3.1 of this document
5.2.10 Cultural Heritage Resources
Objective: To conserve, or, if necessary, protect cultural heritage resources that are the
focus of a traditional use by an aboriginal people that is of continuing
importance to that people, and not regulated under the Heritage Conservation
Act.
Legal Reference: FRPA, sec. 10.
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 25 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
Results and Strategies
The license holder is committed to continual information sharing and will refer all forest
development plans with the appropriate First Nations. A written notification with a map,
illustrating the location of planned forest development will be referred to the First Nation as
indicated in the Consultative Areas Database. This referral will provide a 60 day timeframe for
First Nations groups to respond. The objective of this notice is to provide First Nations with an
opportunity to identify areas of concern to ensure that concerns are addressed to the extent
practicable prior to development of an area of crown land allocated for the license holder’s
forest development activities. The license holder will document and keep on record any
cultural heritage resource information provided by the First Nations, this will include how
planned activities will or will not accommodate identified heritage resources. Any cultural
heritage resource information received will be kept confidential.
If any evidence of cultural heritage resources are observed, becomes known, or is brought to
the license holder’s attention, the appropriate archaeological / heritage authority and First
Nations, if appropriate, will be consulted. An effort, to the extent practicable, will be made to
conserve or protect the cultural heritage resource before forest development proceeds.
The current Archeology Overview Assessment model illustrates polygons with moderate,
moderate-high and high potential in both the FDU’s. These potentially archaeological sensitive
polygons will be assessed by a QRP with an AIA, PFR or another archaeological assessment
method. The recommendations of these assessments will be incorporate in Harvest/ Site plans.
It is understood that there is always a limited possibility that unknown archaeological sites exist
in the FDU’s. The Heritage Conservation Act protects both known and unknown archaeological
sites. If an archaeological site is encountered during operations, activities will be halted
immediately, and attempts will be made within 5 business-days to contact the appropriate
archaeological/heritage authority and First Nations, if appropriate.
The license holder is not in a position to decide which of the First Nations with asserted
traditional territory have greater strength of claim and will not endorse one First Nation over
the others. There are multiple First Nations asserting traditional territory over the Arrow and
Kootenay Lake Timber Supply Area as listed on the government Consultative Areas Database.
The license holder respects all of the First Nation’s Aboriginal Interests equally, and will work
towards fostering productive long-term relationships.
5.3 Objectives Prescribed Under the Government Actions Regulation (GAR)In relation to FPPR sec. 10 and GAR’s 5 and 11, the Minister has not identified any resource features or wildlife
habitat features.
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 26 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
5.3.1 Visuals
Legal Reference: GAR’s 7 and 17
Relates to: s. 5.1.9, 5.2.9 and 5.4.2 of this document
Results and Strategies
In the Arrow FDU, subject to when the holder plans and designs harvesting and road construction,
the holder will comply with the scenic areas and visual quality objectives (VQO’s) set by GAR
Section 7 notice dated Dec. 31, 2005.
In the Kootenay Lake FDU, subject to when the holder plans and designs harvesting and road
construction, the holder will comply with the scenic areas and visual quality objectives (VQO’s) set
by GAR Section 7 notice dated March 7, 2014 that establishes the VQO’s for scenic areas.
If the visual disturbance objectives are not expected to be met for forest health or other reasons
then the holder will apply to the DDM for an exemption under Section 12(7) of the FPPR.
The holder will conduct a Visual Impact Assessment for planned developments that are located in
an area with a Visual Quality Objective prior to applying for a cutting permit. Visual modification
on a perspective scale will follow the guidance and strategies described in the Visual Impact
Assessment Guidebook (2nd. Ed., January 2001) for those areas that are deemed to be located
within a Visual Quality Objective of Preservation (P), Retention (R), Partial Retention (PR), or
Modification (M). Management of visual quality will combine recommended percent alteration
thresholds and legal definitions as per FPPR section 1.1 with cut block design and in-block
retention of standing timber to achieve the established Visual Quality Objective.
5.3.2 Ungulate Winter Range
Legal Reference: GAR‘s 9(2) & 12(1)
Relates To: s 5.2.3.2 of this documentResults and Strategies
The holder will undertake to comply with the most current Order – Ungulate Winter Range #U-4-
001. Information to demonstrate compliance to UWR requirements will be retained in the
holder’s office.
5.3.3 Wildlife Habitat Areas
Objective: The minister responsible for the Wildlife Act by order may establish an area as awildlife habitat area if satisfied that special management has not otherwise
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 27 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
been provided for under Government Actions Regulations or anotherenactment, and the area is necessary to meet the habitat requirements of acategory of species at risk or regionally important wildlife.
Legal Reference: GAR‘s 9(2) & 10(1)
Applicable to: Arrow FDU: LU N508 – Grizzly Bear; and LU’s N503 and N507 – Western ScreechOwl
Results and Strategies
The holder will undertake to comply with practices consistent with the most current ORDER –
Grizzly Wildlife habitat Areas #4-093 and 4-094 and Western Screech Owl Wildlife Habitat Areas
#4-113, 4-114 and 4-115.
5.3.4 Caribou
Legal Reference: GAR‘s 9(2) & 12(1)
Relates To: s 5.1.3 of this document
Applicable to: Kootenay Lake FDU and Arrow FDU; LU N505.
Results and Strategies
The holder will undertake to comply with the most current ORDER – Ungulate Winter Range #U-
4-012 Mountain Caribou – Southwest Kootenay Planning Unit.
5.3.5 Grizzly BearLegal Reference: GAR‘s 9(2) & 12(1)
Relates To: s 5.1.3 of this document
Applicable to: Within the Arrow FDU in LU’s N501, N502, N508 and N509(i.e. West of the Columbia River)
Results and Strategies
The holder will undertake to comply with the most current ORDER – General Wildlife Measure
Order #8-373 Grizzly Bear.
The holder will collect field data to identify site characteristics of Grizzly Bear habitat. This
information is collected in each block where the BEC variant site series is applicable to the Grizzly
GAR. The key site data that is collected is the vegetation, bear forage and coarse woody debris
with respect to distribution, quantity and distribution. Utilizing this information a QRP will write
a Grizzly Bear Rationale to show compliance with the General Wildlife Measures.
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 28 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
5.4 Objective for Items Listed in Section 181 of FRPA
5.4.1 Interpretive Forest Sites, Recreation Sites or Recreation Trails
Objective: All objectives in respect to an interpretive forest site, a recreation site, and arecreation trail that were in effect immediately before the effective date arecontinued as objectives under Forest and Range Practices Act.
Legal Reference: FRPA s. 180 & 181
Results & Strategies
In an effort to minimize impacts to interpretive forest sites, recreation sites orrecreation trails, the licence holder will develop operational plans consistent with themanagement strategies established for the sites or trails. Where the establishedmanagement strategies are not practicable given the circumstances or conditions to aparticular area, an exemption under section 16 of the Forest Recreation Regulation,from the requirement of section 56 of the Forest Range and Practices Act (FRPA), will beapplied for in relation to that area.
The licence holder will provide a written or emailed referral to a recreation groupwhenever there is proposed development (blocks or roads) within or immediatelyadjacent to a recreation site or trail. Atco will work closely with the local RecreationOfficer and/or recreational group to establish best management practices that willmitigate potential impacts. Including such measures as listed below:
• Signage will be erected notifying trail users of the industrial activity.
• Any direct impacts to access roads, sites or trails will be rehabilitated as close totheir original state as possible, within a 2 year timeframe.
• If feasible, harvesting is to occur during periods of low use.
• Primary forest activities will be carried out, to the extent practicable, byavoiding damage to vegetation other than commercial timber and the removalof safety hazards.
5.4.2 Visual Quality Objectives
Legal Reference: FRPA s. 180 & 181
Relates to: s. 5.1.9, 5.2.9 and 5.3.1 of this document.
FDU: Kootenay Lake
Results and Strategies
See Section 5.3.1 of this document
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 29 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
6. Measures
6.1 Measures for Preventing the Introduction or Spread of Invasive Plants
Legal Reference: FPPR s. 17, FRPA s. 47 and Invasive Plant Regulation
FDU: All
Measures
The following measures will be implemented to reduce the introduction and spread ofinvasive plants that may result from the license holder forest practices:
Training:Annual invasive plant species training will be conducted to help field staff and contractorsidentify the priority invasive plants, as listed in the ‘Best Practices for Preventing theSpread of Invasive Plants during Forest Management Activities, 2013 Edition’:
https://www.for.gov.bc.ca/hra/plants/publications/Forestry-BP-09-11-2013-WEB.pdf
Training will involve the identification of invasive plants, awareness of the location ofknown infestations currently in the Invasive Alien Plant Program, reporting requirementsand best management practices.Records of these annual training sessions are kept in the license holder’s office.
ATCO participates in the Central Kootenay Invasive Plant committee and utilizes thecommittee to provide guidance on management strategies for targeted invasive plants.
Reporting:Should any of the priority invasive plants be observed outside of known infestation areas,the license holder will use the Report-A-Weed website to inform the Ministry of Forest,Lands and Natural Resource Operations (within 1 year) of the occurrence:
https://www.for.gov.bc.ca/HRA/plants/raw.htm
In an effort to reduce the introduction and spread of invasive plants, during the planningprocess, the license holder will review the Invasive Alien Plant Program data for knowninfestations and their proximity to development areas. This information will be used toplan activities, whereby, operational plans will be developed and used to communicatewith staff and contractors the location of known infestations. Where there are knowninfestations in proximity to development areas, best management practices will beoutlined in operational plans (ie Harvest Plans) to reduce the risk of creating new orspreading existing infestations. The license holder will ensure, where the introduction orspread of invasive plants is likely, the following best management practices will be used:
• If feasible avoid infested areas, otherwise, work non-infested areas first andinfested areas last.
• If feasible, work infested areas during conditions of frozen soil or level of snowpackto limit scalping/ seedbed creation.
• Contractors will be directed to clean equipment before moving to a new site.
• Minimize soil disturbance.
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 30 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
• Within a year following disturbance on new permanent roads (cuts and fills), butnot exceeding two years on other new Cutting/ Road Permit sections (where thereis adequate mineral soil exposure), to reduce the available seedbed for invasiveplants by grass seeding.
• Establish well stocked stands of trees that will eventually suppress invasive plants.
Grass seeding measures:
• Assure there is a minimum 30% germination success of grass seeding.
• Grass seeding will be done in the spring and or fall when climatic conditions arebest for seed catch.
• Obtain certified grass seed (Canada Common #1 or better) from reputablesuppliers to ensure premium quality free of invasive plant seed.
6.2 Mitigating the Loss of Natural Range Barriers
Legal Reference: FPPR s. 18, FRPA s. 48
Measures
There are no range tenures located within either the Arrow or Kootenay Lake FDUs. If a range
tenure is awarded in either FDU, then the FSP will be amended to deal with the appropriate
results, strategies and measures.
7. Additional FSP Information
7.1 Stocking Standards
Legal Reference: FPPR s. 16, 44, and 197
Results and Strategies
The holder will reforest in accordance with the new BEC (South Central Columbia Mountains-
as defined under Land Management handbook 70 and Temporary Supplemental Area) stocking
standards for both the Arrow and Kootenay Lake Forest Development Units. These standards
are currently in a state of refinement; consequently these adopted stocking standards may be
amended from time to time.
Stocking standards are itemized in Appendix II. Note that only the stocking standards for the
BECs found in the Arrow and Kootenay Lake FDUs are included (ie. ESSFdc1, ESSFmh , ESSFwh3,
ESSFwm3, ICHdw1, ICHmw4, ICHmw5, ICHxw and ICHxwa).
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 31 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
FRPA section 197 elections for stocking standards has been enabled to allow for any forest
development plan or former FSP cut block stocking standards to be amended to the applicable
FSP stocking standards.
In the extraordinary case where these stocking standards can’t be achieved on a specific block
or site; then a QRP will write and submit (for approval) a rationale for an amendment to the
Delegated Decision Maker. It should be noted that this situation is expected to occur on a rare
basis (i.e. less than 5 times over the term of this plan).
7.2 Cumulative Effect of Multiple FSP’s
Legal Reference: FPPR s 19
The FSP must address the cumulative effect of having multiple FSP’s in the same area
Results and Strategies
The license holder will establish a reciprocal arrangement to communicate its intentions to
other licensees who operate in the same Landscape Units (LUs) ; to proactively address and resolve
the following issues (if applicable) prior to cutting permit application:
• In shared biodiversity Landscape Units; the holder will determine numbers to show
compliance of old, and mature +old as per the results and strategies outlined in Section
5.1.2 of this document.
• On shared Ungulate Winter Range units; the numbers to show compliance with snow
interception coverage and forage area requirements will be determined as per
Sections 5.3.2 and 5.3.4 of this document.
• With shared watersheds, licensees will compare Equivalent Clearcut Calculations or
Hydrologic Assessments (within CWs) to rationalize accordance with legal objectives.
• In shared viewscapes; the holder will share visual data with the other licensee(s) to
demonstrate compliance with visual objectives.
• Records of biodiversity, UWR and watershed information will be kept on record at the
Atco Forestry office.
• If the holders of a FSP, within an area with multiple FSP’s, are unable to reach an
agreement for sharing the responsibility to obtain results consistent with objectives set
by government then request would be made to the minister to act under section 9 of
the FRPA.
8. References
Approved Wildlife Habitat Areas. Ministry of Environment. November 26, 2015. http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/cgi-
bin/apps/faw/wharesult.cgi?search=show_approved
BC Conservation Data Centre: Data Submissions. Ministry of Environment. November 28, 2015.
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/cdc/contribute.html
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 32 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
Best Practices for Preventing the Spread of Invasive Plants during Forest Management Activities 2013 Edition.
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations.
https://www.for.gov.bc.ca/hra/plants/publications/Forestry-BP-09-11-2013-WEB.pdf
Biodiversity Guidebook. Forest Practices Code Guidebook. Ministry of Forests Lands and Natural Resource
Operations. September, 1995.
Bunnell, F.L., G. Dunsworth, D.J. Huggard, and L.L. Kremsater. 2003. Learning to sustain biological diversity on
Weyerhaeuser’s coastal tenure. Nanamio, BC: Weyerhaeuser Company Ltd.
Chief Forester: Reference Guide for FDP Stocking Standards. Ministry of Forests Lands and Natural Resource
Operations. February 2014. https://www.for.gov.bc.ca/hfp/silviculture/stocking_stds.htm
Daniels, L.D., Z. Gedalof, M.F.J. Pisaric, C.J. Courtney Mustaphi, E. Da Silva, H. Marcoux, V.Mather, J. Nesbitt, E.
Paul-Limoges, J. Perrault, C.L. Steele. 2011. June 2011. Historic climate-fire vegetation interactions of the West
versus East Kootenays: Implications of climate change and fire suppression. Final Report to NSERC-Strategic
Research Partners.
Forest Act. http://www.bclaws.ca/EPLibraries/bclaws_new/document/ID/freeside/96157_00
Forest and Range Practices Act. British Columbia Government. November 27, 2014
Forest Planning and Practices Regulation. British Columbia Government. September 22, 2014
Forest Recreation Regulation (FRR). http://bclaws.ca/Recon/document/ID/freeside/16_2004
Fish-stream Crossing Guidebook (Revised Edition). Ministry of Forests Lands and Natural Resource Operations.
September 2012.
Government Action Regulation (GAR). http://www.bclaws.ca/Recon/document/ID/freeside/582_2004
HLPO Reporting Suite Application. Selkirk Geospatial Research Centre. November 1, 2015
http://www.kootenayspatial.ca/pg_hlpo/login.jsp
Kittredge, Joseph. 1948. Forest Influences: the effects of woody vegetation on climate, water and soil with
applications to the conservation of water and the control of floods and erosion. McGraw-Hill, New York, N.Y.
Kootenay Boundary Higher Level Plan Order. Ministry of Forests Lands and Natural Resource Operations.
October 26, 2002. https://www.for.gov.bc.ca/tasb/SLRP/plan50.html
Kootenay Lake Default Stocking Standards. Ministry of Forests Lands and Natural Resource Operations.
December 4, 2007. https://www.for.gov.bc.ca/DKL/Stewardship/StockingStandardsDec2007.pdf
Report-A-Weed. Ministry of Forests Lands and Natural Resource Operations. 2013.
https://www.for.gov.bc.ca/HRA/plants/raw.htm
Silviculture Systems Program, Notes to the Field, Volume 7. John Harkema and Mel Scott. Ministry of Forests
Lands and Natural Resource Operations. Forest Practices Branch. March 2002.
Species at Risk Public Registry. Government of Canada. November 28, 2015.http://www.registrelep-sararegistry.gc.ca/species/schedules_e.cfm?id=1
Stuart-Smith, A.K. 2001. Songbird communities in burned and logged stands with variable tree retention in the
Canadian Rocky Mountains [Ph.D.]: Oregon State University, Department of Forest Science. 140pg.
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 33 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
Stuart-Smith, A.K., and R. Hendry. 1998. Residual trees left by fire: final report. Invermere, BC: Ministry of
Forests Lands and Natural Resource Operations. Invermere Forest District. Report nr 7.
Visual Impact Assessment Guidebook (2nd edition). Forest Practices Code of British Columbia. Ministry of
Forests Lands and Natural Resource Operations. January 2001.
Water Sustainability Act.
Wildlife Act.
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 34 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
9. AppendicesI. Arrow and Kootenay Lake FDU Maps
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 35 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
II. Arrow and Kootenay Lake FDU’s Stocking Standards – See the following page
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 36 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
BGC Regeneration Guide Free Growing GuideClassification Stocking(i) Regen Assessment Min. Height(ii)
Target MIN pa MIN p Delay Latest Species Ht
Zone/SZ Series Standards ID Preferred (p) Acceptable (a) (w ell-spaced/ha) (Max yrs) (yrs) (m)
ESSFdc1 101 1050217 Bl201,202
Se Pl 1200 700 600 4 20 Pl
Others
1.6
0.8
102 1050218 Se Pl Pa13,201
Bl202 1000 500 400 7 20 Pl 1.2
Others 0.6
103 1050219 Se Pl Pa13,201
Bl202 1200 700 600 7 20 Pl
Others
1.6
0.8
104 1050220 Pl Se Bl202 1200 700 600 4 20 Pl 1.6
Others 0.8
110 1050221 Bl202
Se 1200 700 600 4 20 Pl 1.6
Others 0.8
111 1050222 Bl32,202
Se32 1200 700 600 4 20 Pl 1.6
Others 0.8
112 1050223 Bl1,32,202
Se1,32 1000 500 400 4 20 Pl 1.2
Others 0.6
ESSFmh 101 1050228 Cw14,34,203
Bl202
Lw9,14,34
Se
Pl34
Hw9,14
Fd9,14
Pw9,14,31
1200 700 600 4 20 Lw,
Pw, Pl
2.0
Fdi 1.4
Others 1.0
102 1050229 Fd9
Lw9
Pl Se Bl202
Pa13 1000 500 400 7 20 Lw, Pl 1.6
Fdi 1.2
Others 0.8
103 1050230 Fd Lw Pl34
Se Cw Bl
Pw14,31
1200 700 600 7 20 Lw,
Pw, Pl
2.0
Fdi 1.4
Others 1.0
104 1050231 Se Pl34
Bl202 1200 700 600 4 20 Pl 2.0
Others 1.0
105 1050232 Fd9
Lw9
Pl34
Se
Cw9
Bl202
Pw31
1200 700 600 4 20 Lw,
Pw, Pl
2.0
Fdi 1.4
Others 1.0
110 1050233 Bl202
Se Hw14,32
Cw14,32
1200 700 600 4 20 All 1.0
111 1050234 Bl202
Se Cw14,32
Hw14,32
1200 700 600 4 20 All 1.0
112 1050235 Bl1,32,202
Se1,32
1000 500 400 4 20 All 0.8
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 37 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
BGC Regeneration Guide Free Growing GuideClassification Stocking(i) Regen Assessment Min. Height(ii)
Target MIN pa MIN p Delay Latest Species Ht
Zone/SZ Series Standards ID Preferred (p) Acceptable (a) (w ell-spaced/ha) (Max yrs) (yrs) (m)
ESSFwh3 101 1050260 Bl201,202
Cw14,34,203
Hw14,201
Se
Pl34
Fd9,14
Lw9,14
Pw9,14,31
1200 700 600 4 20 Lw,Pw,
Pl
2.0
Fd 1.4
Others 1.0
102 1050261 Fd9,14
Lw9,14
Pl34
Se Bl202
Pa13 1000 500 400 7 20 Lw, Pl
Fd
1.6
1.2
Others 0.8
103 1050262 Se
Fd9,14
Lw9,14
Bl202
Hw9,14
Pw9,14,31
Pa13
Pl34,200
1200 700 600 7 20 Lw,
Pw, Pl
2.0
Fd 1.4
Others 1.0
104 1050263 Se Cw14,201
Fd9,14,201
Lw9,14,201
Bl202
Hw9,14
Pl34
Pw9,14,31
1200 700 600 4 20 Lw,
Pw, Pl
2.0
Fd 1.4
Others 1.0
110 1050264 Bl202
Se
Cw32,14
Hw14,32
Pl34 1200 700 600 4 20 Pl
Others
2.0
1.0
111 1050265 Bl202
Se Cw32,14
Hw14,32
1200 700 600 4 20 All 1.0
112 1060266 Bl1,32,202
Se1,32
Hw1,32 1000 500 400 4 20 All 0.8
ESSFwm3 101 1050274 Bl201,202
Se Pl34 1200 700 600 4 20 Pl 1.6
Others 0.8
102 1050275 Pa201
Se Bl202 1000 500 400 7 20 Pl 1.2
Others 0.6
103 1050276 Se Pa201
Pl200
Bl202 1200 700 600 7 20 Pl 1.6
Others 0.8
104 1050277 Bl202
Se Pl34 1200 700 600 4 20 Pl 1.6
Others 0.8
105 1050278 Bl202
Se Pl34 1200 700 600 4 20 Pl 1.6
Others 0.8
110 1050279 Bl202
Se 1200 700 600 4 20 All 0.8
111 1050280 Bl32,202
Se32 1200 700 600 4 20 All 0.8
112 1050281 Bl1,32,202
Se1,32 1000 500 400 4 20 All 0.6
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 38 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
BGC Regeneration Guide Free Growing GuideClassification Stocking(i) Regen Assessment Min. Height(ii)
Target MIN pa MIN p Delay Latest Species Ht
Zone/SZ Series Standards ID Preferred (p) Acceptable (a) (w ell-spaced/ha) (Max yrs) (yrs) (m)
ICHdw1 101 1050297 Cw10
Fd58
Lw
Pw31
Pl13
Bg Hw
Py9,14
1200 700 600 7 15 Lw,Pl,
Pw
2.0
Fd 1.4
Others 1.0
102 1050298 Fd58
Py Lw Pl13 600 400 400 7 15 Pl, Lw 1.4
Fd 1.0
Others 0.8
103 1050299 Fd58
Lw Py Pl13
Pw31 1000 500 400 7 15 Lw, Pl,
Pw
1.4
Fd 1.0
Others 0.8
104 1050300 Fd58
Lw
Py9,203
Pw31
Bg Pl
Cw10,204
1200 700 600 7 15 Lw, Pl,
Pw
2.0
Fd 1.4
Others 1.0
110 1050301 Cw Fd1,32,58
Lw1,32,201
Pw31
Hw Bg Sx 1200 700 600 4 15 Lw, Pl,
Pw
2.0
Fd 1.4
Others 1.0
111 1050302 Cw Pw1,31
Sx Bg Fd1,32
Hw Lw1,32
1200 700 600 4 15 Lw, Pl,
Pw
2.0
Fd 1.4
Others 1.0
112 1050303 Sx1
Cw1,32
Hw1,32
Pw31 1000 500 400 4 15 Pw 1.4
Others 0.8
113 1050304 Sx1
Cw1,32
Hw1,32 1000 500 400 4 15 Pw 1.4
Others 0.8
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 39 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
BGC Regeneration Guide Free Growing GuideClassification Stocking(i) Regen Assessment Min. Height(ii)
Target MIN pa MIN p Delay Latest Species Ht
Zone/SZ Series Standards ID Preferred (p) Acceptable (a) (w ell-spaced/ha) (Max yrs) (yrs) (m)
ICHmw4 101 1050333 Cw Fd58
Hw201
Lw
Pw31
Pl Sx10,13
Bg14
1200 700 600 4 15 Lw, Pl,
Pw
2.0
Fd 1.4
Others 1.0
102 1050334 Fd58
Pl Lw
Py9,14,203
1000 500 400 7 15 Lw, Pl,
Pw
1.4
Fd 1.0
Others 0.8
103 1050335 Fd58
Lw Pl200
Py9,14,203
Cw13,10
Pw31
1000 500 400 7 15 Lw, Pl,
Pw
2.0
Fd 1.4
Others 1.0
104 1050336 Cw10,201
Fd58
Lw Pw31
Pl Cw Hw
Sx10,13,204
Bg14
1200 700 600 7 15 Lw, Pl,
Pw
Fd
2.0
2.0
1.4
Others 1.0
110 1050337 Cw
Fd1,14,32,58
Hw201
Lw1,14,32
Pw31
Bg14
Sx 1200 700 600 4 15 Lw, Pw 2.0
Fd 1.4
Others 1.0
111 1050338 Bl202
Sx Cw1,32
Hw1,32
1200 700 600 4 15 All 0.8
112 1050339 Cw32
Pw1,31,32
Sx
Lw1,32
Fd1,32
Bl202
Hw32
1200 700 600 4 15 Lw, Pw 2.0
Fd 1.4
Others 1.0
113 1050357 Bl202
Sx Cw1,32
Hw1,32
1200 700 600 4 15 All 1.0
114 1050358 Cw1,32
Sx1
Bl202
Hw1,32 1000 500 400 4 15 All 0.8
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 40 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
BGC Regeneration Guide Free Growing GuideClassification Stocking(i) Regen Assessment Min. Height(ii)
Target MIN pa MIN p Delay Latest Species Ht
Zone/SZ Series Standards ID Preferred (p) Acceptable (a) (w ell-spaced/ha) (Max yrs) (yrs) (m)
ICHmw5 101 1050359 Cw Fd58
Hw201
Lw
Pw31
Sx10,13
Bg14,16
Pl 1200 700 600 4 15 Lw, Pl,
Pw
2.0
Fd 1.4
Others 1.0
102 1050360 Fd58
Pl Py9,14,16,203
Lw
1000 500 400 7 15 Lw, Pl,
Pw
1.4
Fd 1.0
Others 0.8
103 1050361 Fd58
Lw Pl200
Pw31
Py9,14,16,203
1000 500 400 7 15 Lw, Pl,
Pw
2.0
Fd 1.4
Others 1.0
104 1050362 Fd58
Lw Pw31
Bg14,16
Cw
Hw Pl200
Py9,14,16
Sx10,13
1200 700 600 7 15 Lw, Pl,
Pw
2.0
Fd 1.4
Others 1.0
110 1050363 Cw Hw
Fd1,14,32,58
Lw1,14,32
Sx
Bl202
Pw31 1200 700 600 4 15 Lw, Pl,
Pw
2.0
Fd 1.4
Others 1.0
111 1050364 Cw32
Sx Bl202
Fd1,32
Hw32
Lw1,32
Pw31
1200 700 600 4 15 Lw, Pw 2.0
Fd 1.4
Others 1.0
112 1050365 Bl1,202
Sx1
Bl1,202
Hw1,32
Cw1,32
1200 700 600 4 15 All 1.0
113 1050366 Cw1,32
Sx1
Bl1,202
Hw1,32
1000 500 400 4 15 All 0.8
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 41 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
BGC Regeneration Guide Free Growing GuideClassification Stocking(i) Regen Assessment Min. Height(ii)
Target MIN pa MIN p Delay Latest Species Ht
Zone/SZ Series Standards ID Preferred (p) Acceptable (a) (w ell-spaced/ha) (Max yrs) (yrs) (m)
ICHxw 101 1050367 Fd58
Lw Pw31 Bg Cw Pl
Py9,203
1200 700 600 7 20 Lw, Pli,
Pw
2.0
Fdi 1.4
Others 1.0
102 1050368 Fd58
Py 600 400 400 7 20 Fdi 1.0
Others 0.8
103 1050369 Fd58
Py Lw 600 400 400 7 20 Lw 1.4
Fdi 1.0
Others 0.8
104 1050370 Fd58
Lw
Py203
Bg Pl Pw31 1000 500 400 7 20 Lw, Pli,
Pw
2.0
Fdi 1.4
Others 1.0
110 1050371 Cw Fd1,58
Lw1
Pw1,31
Hw Bg Sx12 1200 700 600 7 20 Lw 2.0
Fdi 1.4
Others 1.0
111 1050372 Cw Fd1,58
Lw1
Pw1,31
Hw Bg Sx12 1200 700 600 4 20 Lw, Pw 2.0
Fdi 1.4
Others 1.0
112 1050373 Sx1
Cw1,32
Hw1,32
Pw31 1000 500 400 4 20 Pw 1.4
Others 0.8
113 1050374 Sx1
Cw1,32
Hw1,32
Pw31 1000 500 400 4 15 All 0.8
ICHxwa 101 1050375 Fd58
Lw
Py9,203
Bg Cw Pw31 1200 700 600 7 20 Lw, Pl,
Pw
2.0
Fd 1.4
Others 1.0
102 1050377 Fd58
Py 600 400 400 7 20 Fd 1.0
Others 0.8
103 1050378 Fd58
Py Lw 600 400 400 7 20 Lw 1.4
Fd 1.0
Others 0.8
104 1050379 Fd58
Lw Py Bg Pl Pw31 1000 500 400 7 20 Lw, Pli,
Pw
2.0
Fd 1.4
Others 1.0
110 1050380 Cw Fd1,58
Lw1
Pw1,31
Hw Bg Sx12 1200 700 600 7 20 Lw, Pw 2.0
Fd 1.4
Others 1.0
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 42 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
BGC Regeneration Guide Free Growing GuideClassification Stocking(i) Regen Assessment Min. Height(ii)
Target MIN pa MIN p Delay Latest Species Ht
Zone/SZ Series Standards ID Preferred (p) Acceptable (a) (w ell-spaced/ha) (Max yrs) (yrs) (m)
ICHxwa
(cont.)
111 1050381 Cw Fd1,58
Lw1
Pw1,31
Hw Bg Sx12 1200 700 600 4 20 Lw, Pw 2.0
Fdi 1.4
Others 1.0
112 1050382 Sx1
Cw1,32
Hw1, 32
Pw31 1000 500 400 4 20 Pw
Others
1.4
0.8
113 1050383 Sx1
Cw1,32
Hw1, 32
Pw31 1000 500 400 4 15 All 0.8
Trees must be equal to or greater than the approved minimum inter-tree distance apart in order to be well spaced:
Minimum inter-tree distance (m) Location/condition
1.7 planting on hygric, sub-hydric or mechanically site prepared areas
2.0 all other areas
Height of Trees Above Brush
In addition to being at least the required minimum height, trees must be greater than the approved minimum %height
% Ht above brush Location/condition125% ESSF BGC zones150% ICH BGC zones
Maximum Density: 10,000 stems/ha.25,000 stems/ha. for Pli (per Zacharatos letter, March 8, 2006
Post Density: Minimum 700 stems/ha.Maximum 1,800 stems/ha. and 2,500 stems/ha. for Pli
Minimum Leave Tree Characteristics: Advanced Regeneration:
To be considered acceptable, advanced regeneration must meet the requirements of Appendix 10 of the"Establishment to Free Growing Guidebook", Nelson Forest Region, May 2000.
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 43 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
Stocking Requirements for Multi-Layered Stands
Col. 1 Col. 2 Col. 3 Col. 4 Col. 5 Col. 1 Col. 2 Col. 3 Col. 4 Col. 5
Target from Layer** Stocking*** Target from Layer** Stocking***
Table A standards Target pa MIN pa MIN p Table A standards Target pa MIN pa MIN p
(stems/ha) (stems/ha)
1200 1 600 300 250 800 1 300 150 150
ID 86000 (all layers) 2 800 400 300 ID 86003 (all layers) 2 400 200 200
3 1000 500 400 3 600 300 300
4 1200 700 600 4 800 400 400
1000 1 400 200 200 600 1 300 150 150
ID 86001 (all layers) 2 600 300 250 ID 86004 (all layers) 2 400 200 200
3 800 400 300 3 500 300 300
4 1000 500 400 4 600 400 400
900 1 400 200 200 400 1 200 100 100
ID 86002 (all layers) 2 500 300 250 ID 86005 (all layers) 2 300 125 125
3 700 400 300 3 300 150 150
4 900 500 400 4 400 200 200
MIN - minimum
**Stand Layer Definition
Layer 1 Mature trees >= 12.5 cm dbh
Layer 2 Pole trees 7.5 cm to 12.4 cm dbh
Layer 3 Sapling trees >= 1.3 m height to 7.4 cm dbh
Layer 4 Regeneration trees < 1.3 m height
(w ell-spaced/ha) (w ell-spaced/ha)
* Maximum regeneration delay is seven years. For a seven-year regeneration delay, the early free growing is 12 years andthe late free growing is 15 years. Regeneration delay can be met immediately following harvest if the residual stand has nosignificant damage or pest problems and meets minimum stocking standards. If regeneration is achieved immediatelyfollowing harvest, earliest free growing date is 12 months after completion of harvest and the latest date is 24 months aftercompletion of harvest.
*** pa - preferred and acceptable species p - preferred species
Preferred and acceptable species and "Target" from the table of stocking standards by the BEC site series
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 44 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
Reference Guide for FSP Stocking Standards
Footnote# Footnote
Conifer Tree Species 1 elevated microsites are preferred
"Ba" means amabilis fir; 2 suitable on thick forest floors
"Bg" means grand fir; 3 restricted to coarse-textured soils
"Bl" means subalpine fir; 4 restricted to medium-textured soils
"Bp" means noble fir; 5 footnote retired"Cw" means western redcedar; 6 restricted to nutrient-very-poor sites
"Fd" means Douglas-fir; 7 restricted to nutrient-medium sites"Hm" means mountainhemlock; 8 restricted to steep slopes"Hw" means westernhemlock; 9 restricted to southerly aspects
“Lt” means tamarack; 10 restricted to northerly aspects
"Lw" means western larch; 11 restricted to crest slope positions
“Pa” means whitebark pine; 12 suitable on cold air drainage sites
"Pl" means lodgepole pine; 13 restricted to upper elevations of biogeoclimatic unit
"Pw" means white pine; 14 restricted to lower elevations of biogeoclimatic unit
"Py" means ponderosa pine; 15 restricted to northern portion of biogeoclimatic unit in region
“Sb” means black spruce; 16 restricted to southern portion of biogeoclimatic unit in region“Se” means Engelmannspruce; 17 restricted to western portion of biogeoclimatic unit in region
"Ss" means Sitka spruce; 18 restricted to eastern portion of biogeoclimatic unit in region
“Sw” means white spruce; 19 restricted, not in Queen Charlotte Islands"Sx" means hybrid spruce orinterior spruce; 20 restricted, not near outer coast"Sxs" means hybrid Sitkaspruce; 21 restricted to mainland“Sxw” means hybrid whitespruce; 22 restricted to southern Gardner Canal-Kitlope area
"Yc" means yellow cedar. 23 restricted to trial use
Broadleaf Tree Species
24 suitable (as a major species) in wetter portion of biogeoclimatic unit
“Acb” means balsam poplar; 25 suitable on sites lacking salal“Act” means blackcottonwood; 26 suitable minor species on salal-dominated sites
“At” means trembling aspen; 27 partial canopy cover required for successful establishment
“Dr” means red alder; 28 limited by moisture deficit“Ep” means common paperbirch; 29 risk of heavy browsing by moose
“Mb” means bigleaf maple; 30 retired November 2010
“Qg” means garry oak;
31use of resistant stock mitigates risk of white pine blister rust. Do not usenon-resistant stock for reforestation. See BC Journal of Ecosystems andManagement 10(1): 97-100.
“Ra” means arbutus; 32 limited by growing-season frosts
33 footnote retired and replaced with footnote 'a'
34 risk of snow damage
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 45 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
“Biogeoclimatic unit” or“BGC classification”means the zone, subzone,variant and site seriesdescribed in the most recentfield guide published by theMinistry of Forests for theidentiication andinterpretation of ecosystems,as applicable to a harvestedarea.
35 use of resistant stock mitigates risk of spruce weevil damage. Use stockwith the highest resistance rating for your area. See Ss Weevil DecisionTool (http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/hre/forgen/projects/spruceweevil) and BCJournal of Ecosystems and Management 7(3): 45-49.
36 suitable major species on salal-dominated sites“MIN or “Min” meansminimum. 37 retired November 2010
38 footnote retired
39 avoid exposed and windy sites
40 risk of redheart
41 limited by poorly drained soils
42 restricted to fresh soil moisture regimes
43 suitable on mainland coast only (QCI only)
44 suitable in areas with stronger maritime influence
45 suitable in areas with stronger continental influence
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 46 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
Footnote # Footnote
46 restricted to area north of the Dean Channel47
risk of balsam wooly adelgid – applies to all Abies species in subzoneswithin the regulated quarantine area(http://www.al.gov.bc.ca/cropprot/balsamwa.htm )
48 risk of heavy browsing by deer
49 retired November 2010
50 restricted to sites where the species occurs as a
major species in a pre-harvest, natural stand
51 restricted to areas with proven Pl performance
52 restricted to sheltered microsites with deep soil
53 minor component
54 risk of unsuccessful release of advance regeneration
55 acceptable in sx-sm portion of site series
# Broadleaf Management Constraints
a productive, reliable, and feasible regeneration option
b limited in productivity, reliability and/or feasibility
# Localized Footnotes
56 Kalum forest district - see footnote 35
57 retired November 2010 see footnote 3158 South Area - Fd limited to a max 50% of preferred and acceptable well-
spaced stems in the IDFmw and all subzones of the ICH due to root rotin areas where stump removal has not been performed. See BCJournal of Ecosystems and Management 9(2): 60-65.
59 Prince George region - max 1,400 total sph of aspen and cottonwood.
Treat as 'ghost' trees in surveys.
60 Squamish forest district - species is acceptable in Squamish forest district only.
61 Squamish forest district only - acceptable on cold air drainage sites only.
62 retired November 2010 see footnote 4763
Queen Charlotte Islands forest district - must meet district managerspecified minimum well-spaced preferred stems per hectare andminimum height requirements for Cw and/or Yc
66 Mackenzie forest district - may be preferred where risk of snow damageis low or where risk of frost damage is excessive on spruce
67 Chilliwack forest district - species is acceptable in Chilliwack forest district only.
68 Chilliwack forest district - species is preferred in Chilliwack forest district only.69
Species is restricted to upper elevations when used in the southernportion of the biogeoclimatic unit.
70 Pr Rupert region - Hw is restricted to a maximum of 50% of the well spaced stems at free growing
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 47 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
200Pl200 allows Pl to be moved from acceptable to preferred if Pl wasdominant in the pre-harvest stand, using detailed criteria - see attachedfootnotes for details
201 Maximum 50% of preferred and acceptable well-spaced trees
202 No advance regeneration in even aged stand management
203 Recommended on sites for climate change adaptation
204 Not recommended due to climate change concerns
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 48 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
Pl200 Footnote
In order to move Pli from “acceptable” to “preferred”, the following criteria shallapply:
For areas with greater than 25% Pli in the mature overstory;Pli can only be moved to preferred on sites where all of the following criteria aremet:
1) Pli consisted of >25% of the mature overstory,
2) Extensive, historically proven stands of Pli existed pre-harvest*,
3) the harvested Pli is generally of good form and quality,
4) the site series is drier than mesic and there is no humidity build-up (e.g. slopingsites,
off valley floor bottoms, away from lakes), and
5) there is minimal evidence of snow damage in the mature stand(s).
If the 5 criteria are met and there is;
>50% Pli in the pre-harvest stand (based on merchantable volume), then Pli cancount
towards up to 100% of total well spaced stems.
25-50% Pli in the pre-harvest stand, then Pl can count towards a maximum of 50%of
total well spaced stems.
For Areas with less than 25% Pli in the mature stand
Where criteria #2, 3, 4, and 5, are met and there is 10-25% Pli in the pre-harveststand,
then Pli can count towards a maximum of 25% of total well spaced stems.
For Areas with less than 10% Pli in the mature stand
Where there is <10% Pli in the pre-harvest stand, Pli shall remain as acceptableand shall
not be moved to preferred unless either of the following instances exist immediately
adjacent in stands situated on similar site series, slope, aspect , and elevation;
mature stands of >25 % Pli that meet criteria 2 through 5 , or
Pli plantations (Pli >25%) that have survived and are healthy at age 25
Then,
Pli can be moved to preferred to a maximum of 25% of total well spaced stems.
General: applies to all instances
Generally, these sites will be limited to south facing aspects with slopes greaterthan 25%
*The test for meeting these criteria shall be evidence that stands either existed onthe
same site as the proposed block, or a stand immediately adjacent that fits the 5criteria
and has the same site series, slope, aspect, and topography as the proposed block.Cruise
compilations and rationale should be kept on file to demonstrate the above.
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 49 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
III. Referral List
BC HydroColumbia Basin Fish & Wildlife Compensation ProgramColumbia Power CorporationFortis BC Ltd.Big Red CatsKootenay ExperienceRed Mountain ResortSnowwater Heli SkiingWhitewater Ski and Winter ResortKtunaxa Nation CouncilOkanagan Nation AllianceLower Similkameen Indian BandOkanagan Indian BandOsoyoos Indian BandPenticton Indian BandShuswap Indian BandSplatsin First NationUpper Nicola Indian BandNeskonlith Indian BandAdams Lake Indian BandLower Kootenay Band
BCTS – Selkirk Forest DistrictInterforKalesnikoff Lumber Ltd.
Ministry of Energy and MinesMinistry of EnvironmentMinistry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource OperationsMinistry of Transportation – Avalanche and Weather ProgramsMinistry of Transportation and Infrastructure
City of CastlegarCity of NelsonCity of RosslandCity of TrailVillage of FruitvaleVillage of MontroseVillage of SalmoVillage of Warfield
Beaver Valley Cross Country Ski ClubBlackjack Cross Country Ski ClubCastlegar Nordic Ski ClubCastlegar Snowmobile AssociationChamber of MinesFriends of the Rossland RangeKootenay Columbia Trail SocietyNelson Cycling ClubNelson Nordic Ski ClubNelson Sno-GoersSalmo Snow DriftersTrail Wildlife AssociationWest Kootenay Snow-Goers
Regional District Kootenay Boundary (RDKB)Regional District of the Central Kootenays (RDCK)
Beaver Falls Waterworks District (Bath Cr.)Blewett Watershed Committee (Eagle/Sandy Cr.)Taghill Water User CommitteeGeorama Road Water UsersSandy Granite Water Users CommitteeGlade Irrigation DistrictRobson Raspberry Improvement District (Ladybird Cr.)Oasis Rivervale Improvement District
1Note: Watershed Groups that have been referred this plans are groups that Atco Wood Products Ltd. hasestablished and maintained a long-standing working relationship with respect to forest development in theirwatersheds. Due to the lack of specific proposed developments shown in each FDU, individual water license holderswill not be provided with a direct referral letter during the public advertisement of this FSP. They will be notified ofproposed development activities as the stand level developments are proposed within the larger FDU’s.
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 50 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
IV. First Nation / Stakeholder Referral Letters
August 15, 2016
«Company»
«Address1»
«City», «Province»
«PostalCode»
Attn: To Whom It May Concern:
Re: Atco Wood Products Ltd. – 2016-2021 draft Forest Stewardship Plan
Atco Wood Products Ltd. (Atco) is currently drafting a Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP) that will encompass the southern
portions of the Arrow and Kootenay Lake Timber Supply Areas (FL A20193 & FLA20218 respectively) under one plan.
The plan is comprised of 2 Forest Development Units (FDU’s), one in the Arrow and the other in Kootenay Lake; both
within the Selkirk Forest District.
The FSP is a landscape-level plan that identifies how the holder of the plan will be consistent with government
objectives for managing and protecting forest and range values through the results, strategies and measures proposed
in the plan. Once approved, the FSP will guide future forest development, including road construction, timber
harvesting and silviculture activities.
It is important to note that the FSP is a management document and does not show actual locations of specific proposed
cut blocks or roads. A separate referral will be sent once this development layout is known.
The draft Atco FSP will be available for public review and written comments from August 15, 2016 to October 14, 2016,
during regular business hours (7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday to Friday) at the office address noted below. An
electronic copy of the draft FSP has been attached with the email sent to you with this letter.
If you have questions or would like to arrange a meeting, do not hesitate to contact me at 250-367-2525.
In order for comments to be considered prior to submission of the FSP for approval they must be received on or before
October 14, 2016. Written comments may be mailed, delivered in person or sent by email.
Sincerely,
Ron OzanneForestry ManagerEmail: [email protected]
RO/nh
Encl.
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 51 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
Referral Letter to Stakeholders
August 15, 2016
«AddressBlock»
«GreetingLine»
Re: Atco Wood Products Ltd. – 2016-2021 draft Forest Stewardship Plan
Atco Wood Products Ltd. (Atco) is currently drafting a Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP) that willencompass the southern portions of the Arrow and Kootenay Lake Timber Supply Areas (FLA20193 & FLA20218 respectively) under one plan. The plan is comprised of 2 Forest DevelopmentUnits (FDU’s), one in the Arrow and the other in Kootenay Lake; both within the Selkirk ForestDistrict.
The FSP is a landscape-level plan that identifies how the holder of the plan will be consistent withgovernment objectives for managing and protecting forest and range values through the results,strategies and measures proposed in the plan. Once approved, the FSP will guide future forestdevelopment, including road construction, timber harvesting and silviculture activities.
It is important to note that the FSP is a management document and does not show actual locationsof specific proposed cut blocks or roads. A separate referral will be sent once this developmentlayout is known.
The draft Atco FSP will be available for public review and written comments from August 15, 2016to October 14, 2016, during regular business hours (7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday to Friday) atthe office address noted below.
If you have questions or would like to arrange a meeting, do not hesitate to contact me at 250-367-2525.In order for comments to be considered prior to submission of the FSP for approval they must bereceived on or before October 14, 2016. Written comments may be mailed, delivered in person orsent by email.
Sincerely,
Ron OzanneForestry ManagerEmail: [email protected]
RO/nh
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 52 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
V. Public Review and Comment
Date Name Affiliation Type Comment Received and Atco's Response("— "dash)
Replyletter&/ormap
Aug-16
Robb Anderson
Ministry ofTransportationandInfrastructure
Email Sent digital copy of FSP Text upon request
Yes -email
Ken Scown /Ingrid Russell
BCTS
Carly Rimmell
RegionalDistrict ofKootenayBoundary
Kristin Aasen
RegionalDistrict ofCentralKootenay
Al SkakunCastlegarNordic Ski Club
Ron Palmer Interfor
Patric MaloneySnowwaterHeli Skiing
Mike KnapikMinistry ofFLNRO
Les Carter
Friends ofRosslandRange
HeatherMcSwan
GladeWatershedProtectionCommittee
TylerHodgekinson
Kalesnikoff
16-Aug-16 Lavolda NelsonPentictonIndian Band
Letter
Letter requesting KMZ file and shape files.— Ron Babcock emailed these files onSeptember 9, 2016. See copy of email.
Yes
22-Sep-16 Al SkakunCastlegarNordic Ski Club
Letter(emailed)
A reply to initial letter by email onSeptember 22, 2016. See copy of email.Generally in agreement R/S for recreation.Requested a commitment to a referral ofproposed development (blocks and roads)to the recreation group where rec site ortrail may be infringed.— sec #5.4.1 R/S were revised with thiscommitment.
Yes
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 53 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
27-Sep-16 Carly Rimell
RegionalDistrictKootenayBoundary
Letter
A reply to initial letter sent October 6, 2016.See a copy of reply letter. Clarification oninterpretation of how Atco deals with 4concerns:1. Health of CW's— Atco standardly uses a hydrologicassessment to get specificrecommendations regarding block and roadlayout. In addition, Atco is well known for itsrelationships with CW groups.2. OG forests managed by an independententity— Audit mechanisms (i.e. 3rd party's) whichAtco has assure OG management are:(1) Sustainable Forest Initiative (SFI) -KPMGauditor (2) the provincial forestwatchdog - the Forest Practice Board3. All logs left on block to be cut to drop onforest floor— Atco leaves some logs deliberatelysuspended after logging for biodiversitypurpose (this delays decomposition of whatlater will add nutritional value to the site).Maintain coarse woody debris on site is animportant biodiversity component.4. Use of term "undertake to comply"rather than simply comply— "undertake to comply" with rather thansimply "comply with" is languagerecommended by lawyers regarding R/S toachieve objectives.
Yes
15-Oct-16
GladeWatershedProtectionCommittee
GladeWatershedProtectionCommittee
Letter
A reply to initial letter sent October 31,2016. See a copy of reply letter. GladeWatershed Protection raised concerns,some of which relate to FSP and otherswhich are specific to operational levelreferral. Response was given to thefollowing FSP related concerns1. FPB concerns about public review in FSP's— Mentioned CF and DDM have provided
guidance on their expectations.2. Climate change— Atco refers to the most current climatechange information3. Grizzly habitat— Atco has dealt with Grizzly bear as part ofits FSP
Yes
07-Oct-16 Yvonne WeinertOsoyoosIndian Band
Letter
A reply to initial letter sent November 8,2016. See a copy of reply letter. OIBrequested payment of a $500 processing feefor the FSP referral.— Atco's response quoted a clause in theFCRSA which OIB is already receivingcompensation for this work.
Yes
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 54 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
15-Sep-1621-Oct-16
Lavolda NelsonPentictonIndian Band
Letter
A reply to initial letter sent November 8,2016. See a copy of reply letter. PIB alsorequested payment of a $500 processing feefor the FSP referral. —Again, Atco's response quoted a clause inthe FCRSA which OIB is already receivingcompensation for this work.
Yes
12-Jan-17 James OlsonGuideOutfitters Assnof BC
Letter(emailed)
A reply email was seen March 17, 2017. Seea copy of reply email. Although the GuideOutfitters had not actually reviewed thewording of Atco's FSP, they emailed a letterexpressing concerns about:1. Important ungulate habitat may notcurrently be legislated UWR or WHA.— Mentioned GAR's for UWR, Caribou andGrizzly Bear and Atco's long history ofworking with Trail Wildlife Association.2. Greater Assessment of important wildlifehabitat features (WHF's)— Atco's commitment to WTP's an OGMA'scovering WHF's and currently a pilot GARproject is occurring to protect significantWHF's.3. Key corridors and linkage between
forage/cover.— KBHLPO currently manages forconnectivity corridors. These were largelybased on FEN's identified by biologists andforesters.4. Management of ungulate and bear forageas part of forest development.— Atco has 2 WHA's covering Grizzly andsignificant UWR. Atco employs QRP'sincluding professional biologists specializingin fish, wildlife and birds; whereappropriate.5. Access Management planning to limitboth human predator pressure on ungulateresources.— Atco works closely with MFLNRO and
MOE on access management issues.Unfortunately denying public access is avery sensitive issue and ministries are veryreluctant to deny access without enormousjustification.
Yes
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 55 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
04-May-17 Larry Walker Trapper
Letter
Larry Walker (Trapper in Ladybird) sent aresponse to Atco's FSP via Grant Walton(MFLNRO) with concerns as summarizedbelow: See a copy of reply letter.1. Important furbearer habitatrequirements are not shown in the FSP.— These are not a legislated part of the FSP.During development these habitat featuresare recognized. The commitment to addresshabitat requirements is handled under theblock/road layout referral stage, which isstated in the FSP.2. Important Wildlife Habitat Features needto be identified and protected as part of theFSP.— WHFs are identified and strategies toprotect these features by OGMAs, WTPs,Riparian Reserves and management zonesare covered off under the developmentphase. Again there is an opportunity todiscuss these items at the layout referralstage.3. Key Connectivity Corridors and limitingharvest to ensure a percentage of forestcover should be part of the FSP.— Connectivity corridors are recognized aspart of the KBHLPO, which the FSP covers. Inaddition, the Ladybird CommunityWatershed has an overriding hydrologic caplimiting the Equivalent Clear cut Area (ECA)to 30%. This protects the level of forestcover to a level above the 65% as stated inyour request.4. Access should be limited to reduce humanpressure on furbearers.— Only the District Manager (MFLNRO) hasthe authority to restrict public access. Thisaction is only applied in extremecircumstances.5. Habitat goals should be included in theFSP.—The FSP states measures that must beaccomplished 100% of the time. With theconflicting measures to manage for all forestvalues (recreation, timber, biodiversity,visuals, fish, etc) it is not possible toguarantee target goals 100% of the time.Again, this is a matter that can be discussedat the block layout referral stage.6. Timing of harvesting and silviculture --activities will be discussed at the layoutreferral stage as described above.7. Incorporating slash piling and
windrowing to assist small mammal preyand denning
Yes
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 56 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
— Legal slash abatement laws and publicrecreation concerns override the company’sability to do this.8. Mutual discussions about operational
matters and trap-line issues— Again the company is committed todiscussing and working out these types ofconcerns at the layout stage referral time.9. Trap site damage ----this can be discussedat the layout referral.
30-May-17 Rieva McCuaig Ktunaxa FN
Rieva McCuaig (MFLNRO) received a letterfrom the Ktunaxa FN regarding concernswith Atco’s FSP. Below are the concerns,with the dashed prefix of Atco’s response:See a copy of reply letter.1. The Ktunaxa FN would like to be advisedof any proposed OGMA swap.— The KBHLPO requires a RPF to verify thata replacement OGMA must containequivalent or better old value attributes.Atco keeps the OGMA swap rationale onrecord, along with a map. In general theseOGMA swaps involve small areas. OriginalOGMA placement was done primarily as anoffice exercise. Field checking usually leadsto new OGMAs with better old values.2. Species at Risk (Whitebark Pine andWestern White Pine) should be protected.— Whitebark Pine is protected under SARlegislation. Whenever it is encountered allWhitebark Pine is retained. As this speciesgenerally occurs at high elevations abovethe operability line, thus it is rare that it isever encountered within proposed blocks.Over the last 30 yrs White Pine is managedas part of operations throughout Atco's
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 57 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
area. The company is committed toreforesting with genetically proven blisterrust resistant seed.3. Ktunaxa prefers to retain Riparianmanagement trees, with less considerationof windfirmness and pathogens— Atco is committed to the use ofexperienced professionals for theassessment of riparian retention to protectthe riparian values of the site specificstream.4. Ktunaxa FN would like to see anyalteration to a WTP before it is finalized.— Alterations to WTPs are prescribed andrationalized by an RPF prior to any changebeing made. As with the OGMAs therationale is kept on record.5. Involvement with Ktunaxa FNrepresentatives as part of the developmentprocess.— Atco submits development referrals to allassociated First Nations groups. If anyconcerns are raised the company iscommitted to working together onalterations to accommodate and protectcultural heritage features.
Atco Wood Products Ltd. pg. 58 Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP)
Appendix VI - FSP Amendment Log
Tab Reference Sheet
TabFSP
Tracker #FSP
Amend #Comment/Description
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
P.O. Box 460 Fruitvale, BC V0G 1L0Main Office: P 250 / 367.9441 F 250/367.6210
Forestry Office: P 250 / 367.9441 F 250/367.6210
June 15, 2017
Larry Walker1664 Pass Creek Road,Castlegar, B.C.Trapline # CB14-164700
Re: Atco Wood Product’s replacement FSP: 2017-2022.
Dear Larry;
Thank you for the letter that was addressed to Grant Walton and Leo DeGroot regarding comments onAtco’s replacement FSP.
Below, in the same bulleted order are responses to the concerns raised:
• The legislated requirements of FSPs do not include a great many factors (ie key habitat requirementsof arboreal furbearers) that are beyond the intended scope of the plan, Most often these factors dealtwith on development plans covering proposed Blocks and Roads (ie at a site specific) basis. Thecompany is committed to sending out referrals at this stage to stakeholders. Atco will assure that youreceive development plan referrals for your trapline in the future.
• Important wildlife habitat features (WHFs) like dens, mineral licks, etc are identified as part of theblock / road layout. Often the Wildlife Tree Patches (WTPs) that are placed on each block (generallya minimum of 7% of the block area) cover and protect these significant WHFs.
• Key connectivity corridors are dealt with in a number of ways: OGMAs, WTPs, Riparian Reservesand management Zones, other reserves and modified cutting prescriptions (selective cuts). TheLadybird/ Norns drainage is a Community Watershed. As such the hydrological principle that is usedto minimize effects on water quality and quantity is to operate with a maximum Equivalent ClearcutArea of 30%. This stipulation addresses your comment regarding maintaining a 65% forested cover.
• Access management is a very difficult issue that the governmentstruggles with to make the broad array of forest users happy.Establishing gates and limiting access is only done where it is approvedby the District Manager of MFLNRO. To illustrate just howcontroversial this matter is the government; an attempt to establish anAccess Management Area (AMA) in the northern portions of the Pend’Oreille (high value ungulate winter range and many species at risk) ,yetwith public pressure from recreation groups, ATV club, miners, etc.simply too overwhelming, so an AMA has not been designated.
• Habitat goals and targets are not something that can be measurable and verifiable to the extent thatthe FSP states objectives or practices that must be obtained 100% of the time. This presentssignificant difficulty in drafting wording that will be met at all times. As an example, it could be seenas a target is to retain a certain number of trees in a forested area. Unfortunately there are windstorms, natural landslides, forest pest epidemics and other factors that all occur and consequently theFSP commitment would not be achieved. In addition, the intent of an FSP is not to state goals for allfactors that exist in a forest. It would be idealist to think this could be done, but one would findnumerous conflicts between the resource values of:recreation, visual aesthetics, riparian protection,domestic water use, range, biodiversity, cultural heritage, etc.
• As mentioned earlier the company is committed to sending a referral to you at the development stage.During this stage it is the appropriate time to mutually discuss a cooperative approach for advancesnotice and timing of our operations (harvesting, road building, silviculture).
• Piling of slash and windrowing of woody debris is something that strongly conflicts with legal slashabatement laws. In addition the recreating public often has an issue with these slash piles. Atco verymuch understands the value of retention of these woody debris piles for managing the production ofsmall mammal prey and denning habitat.
• Again the mutual discussion of operational matters, such as trap sites and surrounding forested areashould be dealt with at the development referral stage.
• Again the damage to trap sites, is an item to be discussed at the development referral stage. I mustemphasize that forest management is a difficult task that rarely, if ever, makes all resource usershappy.
On May 10th evening, on the phone, you and I discussed a number of your concerns. As stated at that time itwould be good to meet at a mutually convenient time to discuss matters further.
Yours truly;
Ron K. Ozanne, RPFForestry Manager250-367-2525
1
Ron Ozanne
From: Holoboff, Warren FLNR:EX <[email protected]>
Sent: May-30-17 10:24 AM
To: Ozanne, Ron FOR:IN
Cc: Wiles, Ian G FLNR:EX
Subject: FW: Evaluation of referral: 3500-10/17-0108 FSP Replacement - Atco Wood Products
Ltd. - Trail / Nelson .
Attachments: 3500-10_17-0108-finalReport-2017-05-26_15-55-54.pdf
Hello Ron
Can you please respond to the attached FN consultation concerns If you need clarification on any item, it might be more
efficient to contact Ms McCuaig directly
Warren Holoboff, RPF
Stewardship Forester
Castlegar Office, Selkirk Resource District Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250-365-8625
-----Original Message-----
From: McCuaig, Rieva FLNR:EX
Sent: Tuesday, May 30, 2017 9:43 AM
To: Holoboff, Warren FLNR:EX
Subject: FW: Evaluation of referral: 3500-10/17-0108 FSP Replacement - Atco Wood Products Ltd. - Trail / Nelson .
Good morning Warren,
I've received the attached response from Ktunaxa. Could you please share the questions/concerns that I've extracted
below with the proponent and ask that they respond to questions and address concerns as possible for us? I would like
to then share response with Ktunaxa and move to concluding consultation.
Thanks very much, Rieva
***
5.1.2 Old and Mature Forest
The Ktunaxa Nation considers old growth forest to be extremely important - both culturally and spiritually. As
important elements on the landscape which are becoming increasingly scarce, the KNC supports efforts to ensure
recruitment strategies which result in achieving old and mature targets. KNC also recommends that consultation occurs
prior to modification of an OGMA boundary or location for any reason.
5.2.3.1 Species at Risk
Please be aware that the CDC's Species and Ecosystem Explorer Tool often does not have up to date information on the
location or observations of species at risk. Consultation with local provincial biologists, or other QRP may be necessary
at times to determine habitat suitability and/or possible risk to species without designated WHA's. Whitebark and
Western white pine trees are culturally important to the Ktunaxa, and are Provincially blue-listed species. Although not
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legally protected species, KNC recommends specific strategies/measures (below, section 5. 2.10) that will minimize
unnecessary harvest of these species of importance.
5.2.4 Water, Fish, Wildlife and Biodiversity in Riparian Areas
What methodology is used to determine wind-firmness of leave trees? If timber is in imminent danger of loss due to
forest pathogens, it is preferable to KNC that those trees in a potential or designated RMZ are retained regardless of
imminent loss, damage, or destruction from pathogens, thus retaining important aspects of a functional riparian zone -
with large diameter trees retained along streams regardless of the tree health status.
5.2.8 Wildlife and Biodiversity - Stand Level
If a wildlife tree retention area requires replacement, similar to 5.1.2 above, KNC requests that a clear rationale for the
decision with supporting documentation be shared with KNC representatives prior to harvesting of the original wildlife
tree area to be replaced.
5.2.10 Cultural Heritage Resources
The KNC recommends the following strategies, which are similar to the proposed FSP, but provide a clearer
commitment to conduct inventory, to include FN in the inventory activities when possible, then report on efforts made
to identify, and mitigate important cultural heritage resources not regulated under the Heritage Conservation Act.
1. Working with designated representatives of the KNC (or other First Nations), conserve and where necessary protect
cultural heritage resources (e.g. old growth forest, medicinal, ceremonial, or food plants, Western and Whitebark pine,
specific wildlife habitat and/or features, etc.) by undertaking the following activities:
a. Before declaring area or submitting cutting permits, review proposed forest development activities to:
i. Determine the nature and potential extent of cultural heritage resources that may be impacted by the
proposed operations;
ii. Assess potential conflicts between proposed forest development activities and KNC land use activities.
b. If necessary, undertake inventories to more accurately identify and assess cultural heritage resources identified in 3
(a). Work with applicable First Nations when possible to complete inventories.
c. Describe forest management activities that will address the impacts or conflicts identified in 3 (a).
d. Modify proposed forest development activities to address the impacts or conflicts identified in 3 (a); and
e. Make best efforts to resolve issues through consensus.
2. Prepare a summary of the process in b) and c) above, including a description of identified issues and how they were
resolved. If issues were not resolved, the summary will describe how the parties have attempted to address the issues.
In the unlikely event that meetings have not occurred, the efforts made to meet and/or review information with KNC
will be documented in the summary. The summary will be provided to
a. District Manager of applicable Forest Region,
b. The designated KNC (or other FN) representative.
If you have any questions, or for more information regarding these comments, please contact:
Cathy Conroy, BSc.
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Terrestrial Biologist
Ktunaxa Nation Lands & Resources
ph: 250-489-2464 extension 4033
-----Original Message-----
From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]
Sent: Friday, May 26, 2017 3:56 PM
To: McCuaig, Rieva FLNR:EX
Subject: Evaluation of referral: 3500-10/17-0108 FSP Replacement - Atco Wood Products Ltd. - Trail / Nelson .
Referral 3500-10/17-0108 FSP Replacement - Atco Wood Products Ltd. - Trail / Nelson 19500-40/ A20193 & A20218
Our evaluation of this referral is attached.
Kind regards,
Ktunaxa Nation Council