Expert Says Timber Allocation Rules Need Updating

Expert Says Timber Allocation Rules Need Updating

Thursday, April 27, 2006 at 14:07

A consultant in Prince Albert says he believes rules governing the allocation of timber rights in the province need to be adjusted for the good of the industry.

Roman Orynik recently presented a report to the Saskatchewan Forest Centre that called for fundamental changes to the system.

Among other things, Orynik says timelines for timber approval have to be improved, along with transparency and accessibility of tree stand areas.

He believes opportunities for operators could possibly improve if changes are made.

Orynik notes small operators usually get their wood from exclusions in forest management areas, under-utilized volumes and from tree stands damaged by fires or insects.

Independent operators include fence post makers, sawmill operators and furniture fabricators.

Orynik’s study concludes greater dialogue with government and forest management agreement holders could also help build a more cost-effective process.