Globally important old-growth rainforest in the Walbran Valley is at risk, and we need urgent action to protect it!

Last fall, after finding new surveying tape in the unprotected central Walbran Valley, we contacted logging company Teal Jones to ask what its plans were. We stressed the ecological importance and scarcity of old-growth forests, and we asked that the company select another location in its large forest tenure.

Then, Teal Jones sent us a map that showed eight new cutblocks on the north side of the Walbran River – the most extensive valley-bottom old-growth stand in the entire Walbran Valley. The company has completely disregarded our request and is now targeting one of the last contiguous intact old-growth forests on southern Vancouver Island.

Cutting down 1,000-year-old trees and destroying the intact ecosystems that support them is an archaic practice that must end. Our provincial government has a duty to step up and protect what little remains, in a way that works for ecosystems and ensures First Nations’ access to traditional resources.

Teal Jones is choosing to re-ignite the War in the Woods, but the provincial government has the power to stop this. And it’s up to us to pressure them to do so.

Grassroots campaigning and public pressure have a history of success when it comes to protecting old-growth forests. The Carmanah Valley and a portion of the Walbran were protected in 1993, after a fierce Wilderness Committee campaign and support from concerned citizens like you.

Write a letter to the BC government and tell them to protect the Walbran Valley. We can do this again, and protect what’s left of the Walbran Valley’s ancient forest.