Vancouver Islanders Push for Improved Forest Access and Oversight
A recent survey by Mosaic Forest Management highlights a strong desire among Vancouver Islanders for improved forest access and raises urgent calls for increased environmental oversight on private forest lands. With thousands of outdoor enthusiasts responding, the message is clear: unlock the gates and allow better public use while ensuring responsible land management.
Mosaic manages roughly 550,000 hectares of private forest across Vancouver Island, spanning Victoria, Sooke, and Campbell River. According to their data, over 7,600 people participated in the survey, emphasizing that many feel current access restrictions limit outdoor recreation and transparency.
Limited Access to Private Forest Lands
Mosaic controls more than 20 gates, which regulate access to popular hiking trails and camping areas like Century Sam in Comox and Mount Arrowsmith near Port Alberni. Currently, these gates typically open only on weekends from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Steve Mjaaland, Mosaic’s manager of forest protection, explains that these closures serve critical safety purposes. “It’s a working forest,” he said. “There are many hazards, especially hauling trucks on roads, which pose risks to the public.” Additionally, gate closures help prevent wildfires, a constant threat in the region.
Calls for Better Access and Transparency
Jenn Holland, chair of the Vancouver Island Private Managed Forest Land Action Alliance, which unites nearly 30 grassroots groups, advocates for greater access. She notes, “People can’t reach waterfalls, lakes, or campsites they once enjoyed because of locked gates.”
Beyond recreation, Holland stresses the need for transparency and accountability. “We can’t see if logging has caused landslides or damaged watercourses. Entire watersheds might be affected, but the public has no way to verify,” she said.
Conservation Concerns on Private Lands
Dave Weaver, a retired forestry worker and volunteer with the Beaufort Watershed Stewards, raises concerns about the Private Managed Forest Land Program, created under the 2003 Private Managed Forest Land Act. He believes this legislation sets a lower standard for private forestry practices compared to public lands, with fewer restrictions on clearcutting and harvesting.
“We need open discussions soon with the provincial government and landowners,” Weaver urged. He pointed out that a 2019 provincial review collected extensive public, local government, and First Nations feedback, revealing widespread concern about sustainable forestry and watershed health on private lands. However, Weaver feels no meaningful reforms have followed.
Government and Industry Responses
The Ministry of Forests stated it is working to modernize the act based on the 2019 review, aiming to align forestry practices with ecosystem values. Yet, Weaver and the alliance argue the review is now outdated and call for a new, comprehensive evaluation.
Meanwhile, Mosaic expressed willingness to collaborate with community partners, First Nations, and the province. Karen Brandt, Mosaic’s senior vice president of public affairs, emphasized, “Responsible forest management must support BC’s economic, reconciliation, and climate goals.”
Balancing Access, Safety, and Sustainability
As public demand for recreational access grows, stakeholders face the challenge of balancing safety, environmental protection, and public accountability. Vancouver Islanders want to explore their natural heritage freely but also seek transparency about how private forest lands are managed.
This call for better access and oversight could lead to meaningful reforms that protect both the environment and community interests, forging a path toward sustainable forestry on Vancouver Island.
Stay tuned to Maple Wire for updates on this evolving story and other environmental news.
