The Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations is reminding British Columbians – now that the autumn is well and truly here – to ensure the firewood they use in their wood stoves and fireplaces has been harvested legally.
The Ministry has released a statement saying that while collection of firewood from crown lands is legal, firewood must only be collected by those with firewood permits – which are free – and only from designated areas.
“Cutting down trees on Crown land without an appropriate permit, or selling any such firewood, is an ongoing concern in British Columbia,” the statement reads.
“This activity is illegal and could result in a violation ticket or fine. It could also create safety hazards for recreationalists and other forest users, and negatively affect ecosystems – including fish and wildlife habitats.”
Legitimate commercial firewood producers, the statement says, will have a “Forestry License to Cut” document signed by the Ministry, and they anyone purchasing firewood ask the seller where they firewood comes from (Crown or private land) and ask for a record of purchase. They also recommend that purchasers ask for the lot number and timber mark number for wood harvested on private land. For more information on firewood permits, or to obtain one, go online to gov.bc.ca/firewoodpermits or head over to the Campbell River Natural Resource District office at 370 South Dogwood St.