Action, not words, needed on log exports

Re: “Raw-log exports reach all-time high,” Feb. 28.

I find it just incredible that we are exporting a huge amount of raw logs and cutting down our forests to satisfy the greed of the large corporations and the irresponsible approach of our government to manage this resource.

This cannot be sustainable and does not represent a responsible way to manage our forestry resources.

Where is the initiative to promote our forests through the manufacture of finished wood products, and more valueadded manufacturing, thus providing more employment for the people the government represents?

The article states “last year we exported enough raw logs to build 134,00 homes in B.C., and thousands of good-paying jobs are at risk in rural communities every day the government fails to act.”

Forest Minister Steve Thomson notes that “less than seven per cent of the total harvest is raw-log exports.” This seems unbelievably low. What accounts for the other 93 per cent?

I am a retired builder and developer, and seem to recall the often poor quality of lumber we had available compared to the superior quality shipped out of the country.

It’s about time that we have a responsible government to manage this important resource and be more accountable to the people who elected them, and consider the manufacturing opportunities that exist or could exist.

Profits for large corporations are important and necessary, but how much and at what cost to the environment and future generations?

Our provincial government has to be concerned about this issue and act responsibly and consider who is benefitting. We need more than words with an election looming.

Barry Slagboom Saanich