Energy, Mines, and Resources

Forestry

Frequently Asked Questions about the Forest Resources Act and Regulation

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. When does the Forest Resources Act and regulation come into effect?
  2. How will the Forest Resources Act and regulation support stewardship goals and responsible forest management?
  3. Will I still be able to collect firewood for my personal use?
  4. Will the public have the opportunity to provide input into the management of forest resources?
  5. Does the act and regulation allow for input from First Nations into how Yukon forests will be managed?
  6. Will First Nations still be able to practice traditional use of forest resources?
  7. Are there new requirements for First Nations involved in forest resource harvesting?
  8. What will happen to my existing license or permit after January 31, 2011?
  9. How does the act and regulation affect forest resource allocation and tenure?
  10. Will I be required to harvest timber in planned areas under the Forest Resources Act and regulation?
  11. Are there new enforcement and compliance measures I should be aware of?
  12.  How can I find out more information on the act, regulation or how they apply to me?

  1. When does the Forest Resources Act and regulation come into effect?
    The Forest Resources Act and the Forest Resources Regulation came into effect on January 31, 2011.

  2. How will the Forest Resources Act and regulation support stewardship goals and responsible forest management?
    The Forest Resources Act and accompanying regulation will guide decision making and provide forest managers with the tools they require to manage Yukon's forest resources for their long term health. This includes planning that considers all forest users and provides opportunities for First Nations and public input; a robust suite of compliance tools to ensure the continued vitality of Yukon's forests; and the ability to proactively identify key environmental areas and apply appropriate mitigation. In addition, the legislation has been developed to be compatible with YESAA review processes.

  3. Will I still be able to collect firewood for my personal use?
    Yes. Members of the public will still be able to harvest firewood for personal use such as heating their home. However, as of January 31, 2011, the volume permitted for harvest free of charge will decrease to 25 m3 (11 cords) per year. This change ensures that harvest levels reflect the amount of wood that is reasonably expected to heat a home in one year. Should an individual require more than 25m3, a fee will apply to the wood in excess of the first free 25m3. As is the current practice, all members of the public are required to obtain a free permit from your local Client Services and Inspections Office prior to harvesting.

  4. Will the public have the opportunity to provide input into the management of forest resources?
    Yes. Members of the public can contribute to the management of Yukon's forests through the public review of forest resource plans and harvesting licences and participation in the YESAA.

  5. Does the act and regulation allow for input from First Nations into how Yukon forests will be managed?
    Yes. The regulation provides for First Nation input during strategic planning and increased participation in areas without an approved Forest Resources Management Plan. First Nations also have the opportunity to comment on Timber Harvest Plans, Woodlot Plans and harvesting licences and through the YESAA process for specific applications.

  6. Will First Nations still be able to practice traditional use of forest resources?
    Yes. Members of Yukon First Nations and the Tetlit Gwich'in Council can harvest forest resources incidental to traditional pursuits and customs without a permit. Traditional harvesting must be consistent with the regulation, the member’s Final Agreement, or in the case of the Tetlit Gwich’in, the Gwich’in Comprehensive Land Claim Agreement.

  7. Are there new requirements for First Nations involved in forest resource harvesting?
    Yes. While members of First Nations can harvest forest resources for traditional purposes without a permit, those wishing to harvest timber on crown land for non-commercial, community purposes will be required to obtain a permit. This permit, available free of charge, will authorize the harvesting of timber up to 500 m3 per year. In addition, First Nations harvesting timber on settlement land will require a timber mark for transport of the timber on public roads. Please contact the Forest Management Branch to discuss how to obtain a timber mark.

  8. Can I still get a harvesting license or cutting permit for this season?
    Yes. The Yukon government continues to issue licenses and permits for this harvest season under the existing legislation. Contact the Forest Management Branch or your District Office to enquire about obtaining licenses and permits.

  9. What will happen to my existing license or permit after January 31, 2011?
    At the time of implementation of the act, existing licenses and permits issued under the former regulatory regime will be carried over under the new legislation. They will remain effective until their expiry date.

  10. How does the act and regulation affect forest resource allocation and tenure?
    Together, the act and regulation provide a fair and transparent allocation process. Appropriate allocation processes will be selected in accordance with regional priorities; in some regions in response to industry there will be an increased use of a tender process. The legislation will also provide industry with more secure forms of tenure through planning and public review. This provides industry with the certainty harvesting is in an area that is acceptable to the public and is in accordance with sustainable forest management.

  11. Will I be required to harvest timber in planned areas under the Forest Resources Act and regulation?
    Yes. The act and regulation require that all harvesting of timber over 25 m3 occur in planned areas. Forest planning is important to responsibly manage our forests and provides industry with secure forms of tenure, allowing industry to create business plans based on a known wood supply. The Forest Management Branch is currently completing Timber Harvest Plans in the communities to ensure continued access to timber resources. If you are currently harvesting in an unplanned area, you are encouraged to contact your Area Forester to explore options to meet the new planning requirements. Area Foresters can be reached by calling the Forest Management Branch at 867.456.3999 or toll free in Yukon at 1.800.661.0408.

  12. Are there new enforcement and compliance measures I should be aware of?
    Yes. The new forest legislation provides several options to assist in meeting compliance and enforcement objectives. These include notices of non-compliance, fines, termination of a license or permit and/or prosecution. Decisions on enforcement measures will be made with consideration to using the most appropriate tool necessary to obtain compliance, and when required, to promote general deterrence. As a forest user, it is your responsibility to ensure you are complying with applicable laws, regulations and any terms and conditions outlined in permits and/or licenses.

  13. How can I find out more information on the act, regulation or how they apply to me?
    The Forest Resources Act and the Forest Resources Regulation can be downloaded for viewing. Those who have further questions can contact the Forest Management Branch at 867.456.3999 or toll free in Yukon at 1.800.661.0408 ext. 3999.

    Contact Us:

    Mile 918 Alaska Highway
    Box 2703, Whitehorse, Yukon Y1A 2C6
    Phone: 867.456.3999 / 1.800.661.0408 ext. 3999
    Fax: 867.667.3138
    E-mail: forestry@gov.yk.ca