Integrating biodiversity and forestry practices in western Canada. Forestry Chronicle 79

In western Canada, some forestry companies are attempting to incorporate conservation of biodiversity as a new management pri-ority. Here we provide a review of management strategies currently implemented through a survey of companies in this region. Rep-resentatives from fourteen companies were asked to complete 30 questions designed to assess six broad issues, all of which are impor-tant for integrating biodiversity protection with timber production. Differences in provincial legislation were a major factor contributing to the prioritization of biodiversity objectives. All companies stressed that a variety of stand age classes and compositions was impor-tant for maintaining biodiversity. Green tree retention was a common approach proposed by all companies. Definitions of green tree retention varied significantly among companies, ranging from residual material left following standard clearcutting to merchantable trees selected specifically to foster wildlife and biodiversity. Most companies have proposed some monitoring aimed at biodiversity, although most plans target habitat structural features rather than directly monitoring species