Area-Based AAC

In 2002, the Forest Act was amended to enable trials to establish allowable annual cuts (AACs) on the basis of harvested area (hectares per year) rather than harvested volume (cubic metres per year). The intent of the trials is to determine if area-based AACs can provide a viable alternative for regulating harvest levels in B.C.

One of the anticipated benefits of this approach is that an area-based AAC is easier to understand and relate to the land base than a volume-based approach. An area-based approach to harvest regulation is also expected to complement land-use planning and forest management practices, since many values and resource targets are typically measured by area, not volume.

The Tree Farm Licence Area-based Allowable Annual Cut Trial Program Regulation went into effect on November 1, 2004. The regulation establishes a trial with Tree Farm Licence (TFL) holders who have expressed an interest in the area-based AAC trial program. A TFL is an area-based tenure, where a licensee has rights and responsibilities to manage a specific area of Crown Land. An area-based AAC defines the area of land that can be harvested annually rather than the amount of volume.

The trial program will include an evaluation of various factors related to area-based AACs, including public understanding and acceptance, procedures and costs, as well as ease of determination of AAC and cut control administration.

For more information and background on area-based AACs, refer to the links below:

• Tree Farm Licence Area-based Allowable Annual Cut Trial Program Regulation
• The Potential of Area-Based Harvest Regulation in BC — Status of Discussions
• Executive Summary — The Potential for Area-Based Harvest Regulation in BC
• Area-based Allowable Annual Cut Determination Recommended Information Requirements for Tree Farm Licences