Caving Canada

This part of the Forests Practices Code is designed to help folks like us. As a user group, if something is found in the field, we have this tool to stop active logging and ensure proper inventories done. Unfortunately, we all know that there is still much logging going on the Limestone with no notification from the companies, but this will help.

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THE FOREST PRACTICES CODE OF B.C. ACT
PART 4 - FOREST PRACTICES SPECIFIC TO FOREST AND RANGE TENURE AGREEMENTS AND THE GOVERNMENT

51. Previously unidentified resource features

• (1) In this section, "resource feature" includes the following:
  • (a) a cultural heritage resource;
  • (b) a recreation feature;
  • (c) a range development that is a structure, excavation or constructed livestock trail;
  • (d) any other feature designated in the regulations.

• (2) If a person carrying out a forest practice, other than fire control or suppression, finds a resource feature that was not identified on an approved operational plan or permit, the person carrying out the forest practice must
  • (a) modify or stop any forest practice that is in the immediate vicinity of the previously unidentified resource feature to the extent necessary to refrain from threatening it, and
  • (b) promptly advise the district manager of the existence and location of the resource feature.

  (End of section)

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  Some other very good suggestions regarding contacting key folks in the field.

  These suggestions should be kept on file for future reference if needed.

  It is as follows for Vancouver Island (area specific contacts for the Northern Interior should be substituted) -

  • The interim Cave Management Handbook guidelines for the MOF Vancouver Forest Region (last version dated June 1994) would apply, as backed up by the regional manager's directive to TFL holders to implement the same.
  • The subject cave should not be logged over without prior evaluation for inventory purposes. If the resource contents are sufficiently significant, and vulnerable to the proposed surface activity, then logging should not be approved.
  • The general provisions of the BC Forest Practices Code would also apply. Perhaps the Heritage Conservation Act and regulations as well. Dave Nagorsen (Royal British Columbia Museum) suggested perusing if needed.
  • My recommendation would be to immediately fax the MOF regional manager (cc. Doug Herchmer, BC Ministry of Forests) with a request to cease operations that might threaten the resource feature. Ask them to follow the aforementioned guidelines. You could also copy the ministers of Forests and Environment, Lands and Parks.
  • You could also copy the Chief Forester (Larry Pedersen), MB's vice-president Environment Linda Coady, and Glenn Roberston (MLA North Island) who has been briefed about the lack of cave protection legislation.
  • Finally, you could mention how this reinforces the long-standing need for the BC Cave Protection Act (which the MELP is still sitting on).
  • If these measures fail to correct the problem, go public with a news release and photo. It isn't necessary to reveal the location, as the find is illustrative of other potential finds throughout the Island.

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