2025 OPERATING PLAN UPDATE

Have your say through the end of January 2026

The forest sector is feeling uncertain and we know many people are too - it’s easy to wonder whether engaging in a planning process really matters. We believe it does more than ever. When communities stay connected to the land and to one another, we can shape outcomes that reflect our shared values right here where we live.

Each year, the Sunshine Coast Community Forest releases an Operating Plan outlining where harvesting may occur over the next five years and how that work is carried out. Forest stewardship follows Ecosystem-Based Management principles, balancing biodiversity, water protection, wildfire resilience, recreation, cultural values, and local economic benefit within a limited land base. The plan reflects a move away from clearcutting, using variable retention to intentionally leave trees and forest structure standing in support of long-term forest health.

Our 2025 Operating Plan is now online, and public feedback is invited until the end of January. A plain-language survey on our website asks you to reflect on key questions, including:

• how much conservation you feel is needed in the community forest

• your priorities around biodiversity, recreation, water protection, and wildfire risk

• how local forests contribute to community wellbeing today and for future generations

  
  

No technical expertise is required.  Your voice matters, and with broad community involvement, our community forest can make life better for all who live here now and in the future.

if you have...

· 10 Minutes: Fill out the Operating Plan survey, and we’ll make a $20 donation to a local non-profit for every survey completed

· One Hour: Read the full Operating Plan, then complete the survey.

· A group of people with one hour:  Request a meeting with community forest staff to learn more & discuss your community group’s special interests

· One weekend:  Fill out the survey, and say yes to the question about participating in a multi-day community involved planning workshop.

… Find it all at www.sccf.ca/forest-operations