Logan Lake Community Forest

Living in Kamloops, given the size of the city, it was understandable if people didn’t know about significant events and programs. Now, as a resident of Logan Lake, with a population of approximately 2,300, I thought it should be relatively easy for folks to stay on top of local happenings. But, for whatever reason, that’s not always the case. So let’s explore another of Logan Lake’s best kept secrets — our Community Forest Corporation.

Work to make Logan Lake a Fire Smart Community began prior to the wild fires of 2003 and the goal of a Community Forest for the municipality became a part of its “Vision 2010” planning process which began in 2004.

For the next two years, through community consultation and financial assistance from a variety of sources, a Community Forest application was prepared, submitted and later revised to include both a Management and a Business Plan. This effort was recognized when, in Nov. 2007, a formal offer to enter into a Probationary Community Forest Agreement covering an area of more than 15,000 hectares (42,000 acres) was received from the Minister of Forests.

The year 2008 saw Aspen Planers, in a three year contract, assume responsibility for planning, road construction, harvesting and reforestation. The relationship between the LLCFC and Aspen Planers will result in both a strong financial outcome for the municipality and added value timber for Aspen’s Merritt sawmill.

Perhaps the best part of having a Community Forest Corporation in Logan Lake is the fact that, from the beginning, it’s been a collaborative effort. For example, funding came from Community Futures (application and timber supply review), Western Economic Diversification (for log sourcing and value added marketing study) and the Municipality who approved a five year $100,000 loan for start up costs. Financially, LLCFC’s Management Agreement with Aspen has proven so beneficial that both parties anticipate an early repayment of this loan.

In addition, School District 73 came on board with funding for both a small sawmill and a training package for LLSS and LLCFC and intends to continue to support the school’s sawmill training opportunities.

This past September, at the Union of BC Municipalities conference, the District of Logan Lake sponsored a resolution, endorsed by delegates, which called for increased community control of local forest resources while asking the province to address the issues of economies of scale and viability. LLCFC hopes that this program will expand substantially.

The LLCFC is seeking to increase its community profile by encouraging residents to become involved with the organization. Meetings are once a month for two and a half hours — not an overwhelming time commitment. But, the positive influence on-going volunteerism will have is almost overwhelming when you consider this economic resource can supply local benefits such as employment, fiber for wood products both locally and farther afield, and recreational opportunities.

For more information and/or to become involved with Logan Lake’s Community Forest Corporation, please call Don Brown at 250-523-9815

By Barrie Ogden – Merritt Herald Published: November 19, 2010 5:00 AM