The logging of a world heritage site: Wood Buffalo National Park, Canada

Abstract

Logging of the riparian old-growth white spruce forests of Wood Buffalo National Park took place from 1951 to 1991. Operations were conducted in the Peace River valley in the Big Island block (Timber Berth (TB) 408) and the Peace Delta block, and in the Athabasca River valley. Approximately 70% of the pre-logging old-growth riparian forests have been lost to logging, leaving a remnant of ~100 km2 in the park, of which ~30 km2 are found in TB408. A minimum of 100 km2 has been logged from TB408. Natural regeneration has failed on 93% of these lands (9300 ha). The logging agreement, which expired in 1981, was renewed in 1983, the same year in which Wood Buffalo National Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The history of logging in Wood Buffalo National Park is characterized by government mismanagement and industrial malpractice. There was never legal authority to log in Wood Buffalo National Park, as it contravened the National Parks Act (1930). The need for restoration is discussed. Key words: boreal, forestry, management, Peace River, riparian, white spruce, Wood Buffalo National Park