Overview of Silva Forest Foundation Programs

Strategy

The Silva Forest Foundation acts as innovator, facilitator, and catalyst for changes to an ecosystem-based approach for the conservation and use of forests throughout Canada and in other parts of the world. We focus on solutions. We provide mapping and analysis tools, education and training, and recognition of models of ecosystem-based forest planning and use. We work cooperatively with communities, First Nations, and conservation organizations. We help build bridges between divergent interests. In the midst of current debates about forest practices, we provide workable, ecologically responsible alternatives.

SFF Programs in Brief

The Silva Forest Foundation believes that in order to create positive change in how humans use forests, we must implement ecosystem-based approaches. This can best be accomplished by creating and recognizing models, and by building change from the grassroots up through information, education, and training. Policy and legislated changes will result when enough people adopt, promote, and lobby for ecosystem-based approaches.

SFF has developed interconnected program areas to implement the change to ecosystem-based approaches. Each of these programs:

· focuses on ecosystem integrity as the first priority;
· is grounded in leading-edge science and management practices;
· is practical and provides tools that are useful to a wide variety of people, including scientists, professionals, conservationists, loggers, and local people;
· includes all interests;
· develops and promotes on-the-ground models.

An introduction to our interconnected programs:

Ecosystem-based conservation planning and stewardship—empowering communities with options: SFF partners with communities to develop ecosystem-based conservation mapping, planning, and operations from the large landscape level to operational human uses such as timber management. The GIS (geographic information systems) maps and economic analyses empower communities with information and provide models of ecological and economic sustainability. We work with rural and First Nations communities across Canada. The mapping, planning, and economics can be applied to any kind of ecosystem and any community. Our work frequently includes capacity building through training and participation of community members in all phases of the project.

Education and training—building the momentum for an ecosystem-based future: If ecosystem-based approaches are to be implemented, people must understand what this means and be able to do the landscape and operational planning. SFF delivers workshops to professional and technical people, as well as to rural and First Nations communities.

Working internationally for ecosystem-based approaches: SFF is frequently invited to share our ecosystem-based ideas and methodology in other countries. We sponsor annual Canadian youth international internships in community forestry in various countries throughout the world.

Until January 1, 2003, Silva was a leader in Eco-Certification—defining the standards and recognizing those who are making the change to ecosystem-based approaches. We were the first Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) accredited certifier based in Canada, and SFF has developed ecosystem-based standards for evaluating timber management operations. Forests receiving the SFF Eco-Cert stamp of approval represent ecologically responsible models of timber management. We were active participants in the FSC-BC and FSC-Boreal regional standards processes, and in FSC International.

For more information, follow the above link to archived information about the Eco-Certification program.