After locking their gates in the summer due to fire threat, many Island Timberlands gates have remained closed to backcountry users.
Alberni – Clayoquot Regional District chairman John Jack says the issue has been brought to the board’s attention, and they’re trying to determine if they have any powers over the the private forest lands.
Earlier this week, Brittany Belanger told CHEK News she and her family were almost locked behind gates after the contracted security guard closed them contrary to posted times.
Island Timberlands spokesperson Makenzie Leine told us via e-mail Island Timberlands allows non-commercial public access for the purpose of recreation when compatible with their forest management activities.
Port Alberni’s Lisa Hagen launched a petition against Island Timberlands online, and it is already reaching its target of 10,000 signatures.
https://www.change.org/p/island-timberlands-keep-the-gates-open-its-everyones-land-to-enjoy