Entries by TJ Watt

Chinese seek stake in BC forestry company as FIPA decision looms

Potential impacts of a  $100 million dollar deal between China Investment Corporation (CIC) and Brookfield Asset Management Inc, the majority shareholder in Island Timberlands (IT), have made headlines internationally and alarmed activists in British Columbia. The story was first reported in early November by the Wall Street Journal.

Media Release: Chinese Goverment’s Ownership of BC’s Forests Could Undermine New Environmental Laws, Forestry Jobs, and First Nations

Conservationists with the Ancient Forest Alliance (AFA) are raising the alarm that the potential ownership of vast tracts of British Columbia’s private forest lands by the Chinese government could negatively impact BC’s environmental laws, forestry jobs, and the rights of First Nations in light of the proposed Canada-China Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (FIPA).

NOW OPEN! AFA Office Cubicle in Downtown Victoria!

If you’re in Victoria, feel free to come visit the AFA in the Habitat Acquisition Trust / Nature Conservancy building between 12-6 pm, Mon-Sun., until Dec. 23 at 827 Broughton St. (between Blanshard and Quadra). Pick up great holiday gifts such as our new and beautiful 2013 calendars, ancient forest greeting cards, big tree posters, prints, and more!

Loggers leave Cortes … but promise to return

Last week, Cortes environmentalists, residents and supporters repeatedly blocked Island Timberlands’ crews from beginning logging operations near Basil Creek. Zoe Miles, a member of Wildstands, says the community has attempted to work with the company for more than four years to develop an ecosystem-based approach to forestry. “The community is now left with no choice but to stand in Timberlands’ path to defend these ecologically significant forests.”

NEW! Ancient Forests of BC Calendars for Sale!

We’re proud to present the Ancient Forest Alliance’s premier calendar! It highlights some of the special places on British Columbia’s coast that we’ve explored as we work towards securing provincial legislation to save our endangered old-growth forests and forestry jobs. Available today for $20!