HERB HAMMOND is a Registered Professional Forester and forest ecologist with 40 years of experience in research, industry, teaching and consulting. Currently his work is carried out through Silva Ecosystem Consultants and the Silva Forest Foundation.

Forest ecosystems, from large landscapes to small patches, provide essential ecosystem services—pure air and water, biological diversity, carbon sequestration and storage, climate moderation, and spiritual sustenance.  These are critical for our survival and the survival of all life.

There is a corporate history of forestry in BC that has, and continues, to degrade these ecological services.  The current and past practice of forestry puts short-term timber interests ahead of the broader public interest—essential ecosystem services. Changing this story is a matter of survival.

A new relationship with the forest is possible and necessary.

We need to redefine forest use in BC so that our actions first respect ecological limits and ecological realities, followed by facilitating development of diverse, community-based economies.