B.C. audit reveals flawed forest carbon management data

An audit in British Columbia has revealed that the province's method for calculating carbon storage and release in forests is unclear. This lack of a defined methodology undermines the credibility of reports from the Forests Ministry. The Office of the Auditor-General of B.C. highlighted that defined methods were not used to make important decisions, such as determining how much timber can be cut each year. Although staff created a model for assessing carbon benefits, it was not approved by the chief forester. The audit also noted that the documentation for these calculations was insufficient. Acting Auditor-General Sheila Dodds emphasized the need for a consistent method, stating it is vital for accurate measurements and builds public confidence. The Forests Ministry has accepted the recommendations from the audit. By late 2024, they finalized guidance for consistent carbon projections in forest planning. The audit pointed out that without a defined methodology, it is difficult to review or replicate claims about the performance of the Forest Investment Program. This lack of transparency harms the credibility of the ministry's reporting. Information about carbon storage and release is important for effective forest management decisions. Dodds stated that a clear methodology is essential for ensuring forest carbon projections can be validated.