The Government of British Columbia has launched the Provincial Forest Advisory Council, a new body tasked with shaping the future of the province’s forestry sector through evidence-based, inclusive, and sustainable policies.
The council, announced on May 22, 2025, will advise the government on strategies to strengthen forest stewardship while supporting the communities and workers who depend on forestry.
Formed under the 2025 Cooperation and Responsible Government Accord between the B.C. NDP and the BC Green caucus, the council aims to deliver measurable outcomes that promote healthy forests, ecosystems, and a resilient forestry sector.
“With boots on the ground visiting communities throughout B.C., I’ve met workers and partnered with First Nations,” said Minister of Forests Ravi Parmar. “Forestry means good-paying jobs that support families, all while protecting our biodiversity.”
The council will consult broadly, engaging with industry forums, biodiversity experts, and the public. A key part of its mandate includes honoring commitments to work in partnership with First Nations, ensuring that sustainability and land certainty are at the heart of forest policy reform.
“This council presents an opportunity to advance bold, transformative and evidence-based actions,” said Rob Botterell, BC Green house leader. “We must centre forest health, support communities, and ground policy in science and reconciliation.”
Co-chaired by Garry Merkel (UBC’s Centre of Indigenous Land Stewardship) and Shannon Janzen (former VP and chief forester at Western Forest Products), the council also includes representatives from academia, labor, industry, and government.
The council is expected to deliver an interim report in fall 2025 and a final report by year-end.
