The volume of timber determined to be available for harvest on a sustainable basis in Alberta is based on what the forest will grow rather than the size of the existing industry. The government does not and will not allow harvesting to occur beyond the ability of our forests to grow timber. The Status of Alberta's Timber Supply report describes the components of sustained yield management, how sustainable harvest levels are determined, reforestation requirements and the changes that have occurred, and continue to occur, in forest management that may affect timber supply in the future. This report provides some of the rationale behind the Alberta government's belief that current allocation commitments are consistent with sustainable development goals. Albertans are committed to the sustainable development of our provincial forests.
Forests are more than a generator of wealth for one particular sector of society.
The Alberta government takes the view that productive, healthy and diverse forest ecosystems are essential to achieving the environmental, social, cultural, as well as the economic goals that contribute to sustainable development and our high quality of life. To ensure that our forests are here for the long-term, Alberta has adopted a policy of sustained yield management. The volume of timber determined to be available for harvest on a sustainable basis in Alberta is based on what the forest will grow rather than the size of the existing industry. The sustainable harvest is calculated using only that portion of forest land base which the government makes available for timber production, irrespective of any development, now or in the future. The government does not and will not allow harvesting to occur beyond the ability of our forests to grow timber.