A Forest with a History and a Future!

The Hidden Wealth of BC’s Forests

While logging holds a significant place in Squamish’s history, results from a study done in 2021 shows that old-growth forests in BC are actually more valuable alive than logged! Researchers found that keeping Squamish’s lush, carbon-rich forests standing provides natural services like flood control, water filtration, carbon storage, fish habitat, eco-tourism and recreation—benefits that would cost over $12 million annually to replace through human-made systems. That’s right, nature’s doing the work for free! Protecting old-growth here isn’t just about trees—it’s about long-term jobs, healthy ecosystems, and climate resilience. Cutting down old-growth may bring quick cash, but protecting it brings lasting value—for people, the planet, and the economy.