The BC Council of Forest Industries (COFI) has expressed deep concern following the announcement of additional mill closures across British Columbia, emphasizing the profound impact on workers, families, and local communities.
Linda CoadyLinda Coady, President & CEO of COFI, issued a statement on September 5, 2024, underscoring the severe threats facing the province’s forest sector and calling for immediate government intervention.
Coady highlighted the ongoing struggles in BC’s forestry industry, exacerbated by a range of factors including the recent spike in US tariffs on Canadian softwood lumber, which has hampered the operations of forestry companies. "Without decisive intervention, the viability of this foundational industry is at risk," she warned. In addition to tariffs, issues such as limited access to sustainable fibre, weak market conditions, and high operational costs—aggravated by wildfires and complex regulations—are putting further strain on the sector.
COFI is urging the provincial government to collaborate with federal authorities to secure a long-term resolution to the Canada-US softwood lumber trade dispute. Coady stressed the importance of defending BC producers and communities from the adverse effects of "unfair and unwarranted tariffs."
In response to these challenges, COFI outlined three key priorities that should be addressed by parties in the upcoming BC provincial election to help stabilize the industry:
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Stabilize Fibre Supply: COFI noted a steep decline in the actual annual harvest, which has dropped from the allowable cut of 60 million cubic metres to just 30 million this year. Establishing a consistent, predictable harvest level is essential to maintaining mill operations and preserving jobs.
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Advance First Nations Agreements: COFI is advocating for new revenue-sharing frameworks with First Nations, emphasizing equitable partnerships and economic reconciliation through updated forest stewardship and investment approaches.
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Innovative Forest Management: The organization also called for new strategies in forest management, including wildfire mitigation and climate adaptation, while ensuring a steady supply of fibre for the industry.
Coady’s statement serves as a strong call for collaboration between the government and the forest sector to safeguard jobs, communities, and the future of forestry in British Columbia.
