Monitoring

Monitoring is embedded in the adaptive management approach. The Clayoquot Sound Scientific Panel for Sustainable Resource Use in Clayoquot Sound (Scientific Panel) defines monitoring as repeated observation, through time, of selected objects and values in the ecosystem to determine the state of the system.

Why do we need to monitor the results of implementing the Clayoquot Sound Scientific Panel Recommendations?

Although the Scientific Panel is based on the best available knowledge combined with professional expertise, the results remain uncertain. The Scientific Panel recommends many new, previously untested strategies. The panel’s innovative approach to forest planning has not been tried before. It is experimental and will need careful monitoring and evaluation.

Adaptive management offers a valuable approach for monitoring, evaluating and improving the Scientific Panel by enabling managers to:

Determine whether practices are meeting objectives.
Improve our understanding of the mechanisms that underlie how ecosystems respond and adapt to management practices.
Determine the effect of management actions on the ecosystem.

Iisaak has initiated a monitoring program designed to monitor the results of the implementation of the Sound Scientific Panel Recommendations. Iisaak will utilize the results of the monitoring program to improve management plans and strategies through adaptive management. The information gained through the monitoring process will be fed back into the planning process to guide future management decisions and changes in management strategies.

What are the objectives of Iisaak's monitoring program?

Ensure that the integrity of ecosystem processes and ecosystem states is maintained.
Ensure that forest practices comply with prescribed standards including both the Forest Practices Code and Clayoquot Sound Scientific Panel Recommendations.
Determine whether the prescribed standards are effective and appropriate for achieving the intended management objectives.
Determine the effects that Variable Retention harvesting systems have on the health of the forest ecosystem.
Improve planning and management strategies through adaptive management practices.
Improve our understanding of the mechanisms that create change in forest ecosystems.

Pre and post harvest sampling data has been collected. This data will be used to determine the ‘base-line’ condition of the forest ecosystems as well as changes resulting from Iisaak's management strategies.

What is Iisaak monitoring?

Indicators:

Windthrow
Wildlife tree distribution
Course woody debris abundance and distribution
Native plant distribution
Residual stand damage

In addition, the following assessments were conducted prior to the commencement of harvesting activities:

Hydroriparian Areas: A large number of unmapped streams were located, traversed, assessed for fish presence, and classified according to both the Forest Practices Code and the and Clayoquot Sound Scientific Panel Recommendations.

Wildlife Habitat: Habitat was evaluated on the ground with particular emphasis on marbled murrelets, black bears, and eagles. Occurrence surveys were done for marbled murrelets.

Terrain and Soils: A terrain stability and soil sensitivity assessment was done in accordance with Clayoquot Sound Scientific Panel and Forest Practices Code.

Culturally Modified Trees: The entire area that was proposed for harvest was surveyed for culturally modified trees (CMTs), these were identified, recorded and locations confirmed by GPS.

Visual Impact: A Visual Impact Assessment with detailed visibility analysis from a number of viewpoints was conducted. Visual impact could be assessed and linked to stand development and visually effective green up under partial cutting prescriptions.