About Us

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Background

In the aftermath of the 2003 McLure Wildfire, which burned approximately 26,000 hectares and damaged 72 homes and 9 businesses in the Lower North Thompson Valley—including the Tolko Mill in Louis Creek—our communities faced significant challenges. The wildfire led to the loss of numerous jobs, while government legislation allowed forest licensees to continue removing timber from our area without providing local employment opportunities.

In response to these challenges, dedicated volunteers came together to pursue a Community Forest License for the Lower North Thompson Valley.

Our Mission

To endure and provide to the Lower North Thompson through sustainable forestry.

Our Vision

To manage the forest for the benefit of all citizens of the Lower North Thompson Valley.

Purposes

The purposes of the society are:

  • To create a long-term sustainable plan for forest resources that benefits the people of the Lower North Thompson;
  • Preserve ownership of local natural resources for the people of our area, promoting self-determination for the people of this valley;
  • To create sustainable employment, new business opportunities, and investment;
  • To provide a new opportunity for community management of local crown land;
  • To provide long-term opportunities for achieving a range of community objectives including:
    • employment;
    • skills training;
    • forest education;
    • social, environmental, and economic benefits.
  • To meet the objectives set by government for environmental stewardship including the management of timber, cultural, and heritage resources.

Benefits of a long-term community forest license

  • Profits provide revenue for much-needed community enhancement within each of the participating areas by providing grants to not-for-profit organizations, scholarships, and bursaries for graduating students
  • To attract Value-added industry to the area by securing a steady supply of fiber at a fair market price
  • Establish local control of forest resources and ensure good stewardship of the environment
  • Create new, sustainable job opportunities