Mixed Use Zones

Portions of Alberta’s forested lands have been designated as Mixed Use Zones and others as Forest Land Use Zones. Timber harvesting is among the many activities that can occur in these zones. Being familiar with the other activities, resources and values in the area is essential when developing timber harvest plans.

The harvest design may require modification based on the location of trails, recreation areas, industrial assets or unique sites. Through careful assessment, consultation and comprehensive planning, Spray Lake Sawmills strives to create harvest patterns that perpetuate the mixed uses of the forest.

As an example, one of our objectives is to mitigate the impact of our operations on visual resources. Determining the visual sensitivity for each area is integral to the planning process. Landscapes can be modeled prior to harvest to assess the potential effects on visual quality. The design can then be modified to meet the objectives.

Forests Provide More Than Wood Fiber

The sustainability of the many forest resources needs to be considered when planning harvest designs. The planner must consider how proposed harvest activities can effect the other resources and adapt the design appropriately. This includes knowing who the other users of the forest are and how the forest is important to them.

Effective Communications between stakeholders and Spray Lake Sawmills is critical. The timing of activities, cutblock shape, size and distribution and integrating access are ways plans can be adapted to meet mixed use planning goals. Adaptive Management, changing how we do things as a result of new knowledge, is one of our commitments.