To ensure that the forest industry has the skilled workforce it needs in the future, the Province has partnered with the B.C. Forest Safety Council (BCFSC) and the Council of Forest Industries (COFI) on two new Forest Workforce projects that will support the recruitment, identification and skills assessment of qualified workers.

The provincial government released its agenda to enhance the competitiveness of B.C.’s forest sector so that it continues to make investments and provide family-supporting jobs in communities throughout the province.

Business and industry leaders, members of the public, First Nations and local politicians gathered to celebrate a local milestone in Prince George – the planting of the one-billionth tree in the Prince George Natural Resource District since planting began in the area in 1959.

The electrical and power engineering programs at the College of New Caledonia (CNC) will receive a funding boost of $151,600 from the provincial government to support in-demand occupations that support the provincial economy.

Comments are being accepted until May 24, 2016, on a discussion paper released today as part of a comprehensive timber supply review for the Prince George Timber Supply Area.

In response to recent increases in the spruce beetle population, the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations is committing $1 million and has designated a spruce beetle manager to work with First Nations, local communities and stakeholders to develop a regional spruce beetle management plan.

The Province has issued a First Nations woodland licence to Lheidli T’enneh First Nation, enhancing employment and economic opportunities in the region.

The start of a new government-to-government relationship between the Province, the Carrier Sekani Tribal Council and seven Carrier Sekani First Nations will increase social and economic well-being for the First Nation communities.