Forest Management Policy

AV Group Woodlands Division (The Company) is committed to Sustainable Forest Management

Guiding Principles

The Company shall maintain a Sustainable Forest Management Systems, meeting Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) performance standards, of monitoring, reviewing and modifying forest management practices leading to continual improvement in sustainable forestry.

The Company shall strive to meet or exceed the requirements of all applicable legislation, regulation and other goals and objectives specific to lands under management.

The Company shall ensure the sustainability of identified timber and non-timber values through development and maintenance of long term plans and the implementation of those plans which respect clear cut size, adjacency and green-up requirements, promotion and conservation of habitat and forest cover diversity.

The Company shall ensure the regeneration of all forest lands, under crown lease or ownership, through either natural means or planting or acceptable seedlings in accordance with approved forest management plans.

The Company shall ensure the protection of forests from damaging agents such as fire, pests and disease, through appropriate management techniques and judicious use of chemicals, to maintain and improve long-term forest health and productivity.

The Company shall encourage input from employees, contractors and the public in identifying sustainable forestry issues and address those concerns in a timely fashion.

The Company shall promote sustainable forestry awareness on forestry issues amongst employees, sub licensees, contractors and the general public through training and/or educational materials.

The Company shall identify, map and respect identified unique areas of historical, cultural and ecological value.

The Company shall promote the adoption of Best Management Practises (BMPs) in planning and implementation of all operations, in particular, with regards to protecting and maintaining soil productivity, the protection of riparian areas, maximizing wood utilization, consideration of recreational potential and improving the visual quality of forest operations.

The Company shall comply with social laws covering employment equality, anti-discrimination and anti-harassment while respecting indigenous peoples’ rights, ensuring workers a safe and healthy workplace and communities access to information in a timely fashion.