The Province is ramping up wildfire preparedness for 2025 by welcoming back experienced wildland firefighters and training a new wave of recruits, following a record number of applicants.

While on tour in the Okanagan this week listening to people’s priorities and concerns and sharing how the Province is fighting back against U.S. President Donald J. Trump’s economic threats, Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests, gathered with workers and members of the Salmon Arm community to celebrate the official opening of Canoe Forest Products’ new kiln.

Workers and communities throughout B.C. are benefiting from Forest Enhancement Society of BC (FESBC) supported projects that reduce wildfire risk and increase fibre supply, keeping local mills and energy plants running in the face of U.S. tariff threats and unjustified softwood lumber duties.

Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests, and Dan Dunmoyer, CEO, California Building Industry Association, have released the following statement on B.C. lumber and softwood duties:

The Province has formed a new council to advance British Columbia’s interests in the long-standing softwood lumber dispute with the United States.

Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests, has released the following statement in response to reported tree spiking in the Fairy Creek watershed:

The Province has approved a legal order to extend temporary protections in the Fairy Creek watershed until Sept. 30, 2026.

The B.C. government has launched a review of BC Timber Sales (BCTS) to ensure British Columbia’s forestry sector is continually evolving to overcome challenges and create a guideline for a stronger, more resilient future.