VicForests Controlled Wood Roadmap and Audit
As part of our commitment to sustainable forest management we are working towards achieving FSCĀ® Controlled Wood Standard. The proposed commencement date of the audit is 11 November 2019.
In support of the efforts at achieving the standard, VicForests has developed a new suite of management systems focused on new
harvesting and regeneration practices and high conservation values. VicForests has also updated its
Forest Management Plan to communicate clearly the policy settings under which we operate. The Plan will be reviewed on a regular basis and VicForests welcomes ongoing
stakeholder input.
Audit Roadmap
VicForests is focusing on new harvesting and regeneration practices, as part of its reform project - outlined in a reform roadmap. A key component to the roadmap is the Controlled Wood standard audit which is due to commence on 11 November 2019 - with feedback in relation to the audit welcomed at
vfs.admin@vicforests.com.au.
This roadmap commits VicForests to:
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Develop and implement new practices to further reduce boundary encroachments
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Review harvest methods and regeneration practices in relation to the impact on HCVs and Old Growth stands
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Revise and improve a new stakeholder engagement plan
Activities to achieve these goals fall within three key focus areas being adaptive silvicultural regimes and outcomes, High Conservation Value (HCV) protection and enhanced stakeholder engagement. As part of this, VicForests will identify measures to guide and mark its progress across these areas which will be monitored by staff. This focus in the field is underpinned by key documents focusing on
harvesting and regeneration practices, and high conservation values, with two rounds of stakeholder consultation in relation to each document undertaken throughout 2019. Further input on these documents and in relation to the 2019 Controlled Wood standard audit is encouraged
via email.
The figure below outlines VicForests intended activity plan in accordance with these focus areas and maps this against the proposed audit plan and timeline.
A copy of this roadmap can be downloaded here: