PROVINCE OF BRITISH COLUMBIA EEPOET OF THE FOEEST BEANCH OF THE DEPABTMENT OE LANDS HON". T. D. PATTULLO, Minister P. Z. Caverhill, Chief Forester FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 81ST 1926 PRINTED BY AUTHORITY OF THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY. VICTORIA, B.C.: Printed by Charles F. Banfield., Printer to tbe King's Most Excellent Majesty. 1027. Victoria, B.C., February 12th, 1927. To His Honour Robert Randolph Bruce, Lieutenant-Governor of the Province of British Columbia. May it please Your Honour : Herewith I beg respectfully to submit the Annual Report of the Forest Branch of the Department of Lands for the year 1926. T. D. PATTULLO, Minister of Lands. The Hon. T. D. Pattullo, Minister of Lands, Victoria, B.C. Sir,—There is submitted herewith the Annual Report on activities of the Branch during the calendar year 1926. P. Z. CAVERHILL, Chief Forester. A 96-vear-old hemlock stand in good site. Average D.B.H., 13.5 inches; average height, 120 feet; 272 trees per acre. Note regularity of size and height. Total volume, 14,600 cubic feet per acre. Volume of trees over 7-inch D.B.H. to a 5 inch top, 13,600 cubic feet. Volume present utilization of trees 14-inch D.B.H. and over, 43,700 F.B.M. REPORT OF THE FOREST BRANCH, DEPARTMENT OF LANDS. The year 1926 was one of quiet progress in forestry-work in British Columbia. In production and shipments new records were made. New pulp and paper units were opened, which increased the production 22 per cent. The total scale of forest products Increased 11.7 per cent, and reached -a new high point at 2,918,119 M. If we add to this, material cut for local use on farms, for fuel, etc., the total drain on our forest is now approximately 675,000 cubic feet. The fire situation again beoame acute, especially in the Southern Interior District, where the dry weather was accentuated by the frequent occurrence of dry lightning-storms, causing no less than 557 fires. It is encouraging, however, to be able to state that losses were $1,000,000 less than a year ago. Fire-fighting expenses were reduced by $100,000, and 76 per cent, of the fires were controlled in incipient stages, as against 70 per cent, in 1925. New forest reserves were created and a considerable programme of development-work was undertaken, including stock-taking, building of lookout towers, trails, and telephone-lines for protection. Forest revenue was maintained and shows a slight increase. In extra-provincial affairs the World's Conference at Rome marked a new milestone in forestry progress. One very important step .was accomplished by the creation of an International Bureau for gathering and disseminating forestry statistics. Forest products are world commodities, and no country or province can be sufficient within itself. Therefore it is most important that reliable statistics be gathered on wrorld consumption, sources of supply, and the probable future. To date no such statistics are available and the figures secured by different countries are not comparable, due to different degrees of utilization and methods of cutting. It will be the work of the Bureau to co-ordinate statistics and ascertain what the real case is. Taken as a whole, then, 1926 has marked considerable progress, the one discordant note being the price received for lumber, which again showed a decline without a corresponding reduction in cost. This situation is not healthy, and again I would urge that it needs the careful thought of every person interested in the future of British Columbia's premier industry. PROVINCIAL FORESTS. During the year 1,286,000 acres were added to Provincial forests by the reservation of the Babine and Sonora Island areas. The Babine Provincial Forest is situated north of the Canadian National Railways between Smithers and Fraser Lake, and between Babine Lake on the north-east and the Bulkley settlements on the south-west. It covers a rough, hilly section, unsuited for agricultural development, but already producing annually considerable quantities of railway-ties, the cutting of which provides seasonal employment for many of the local settlers and a ready local market for the produce of their farms. The creation of this reserve is a first step towards regulating the cut and ensuring a perpetual supply of raw material for this local industry. The Sonora Provincial Forest covers the island of the same name situated off the Coast, 150 miles north-west of Vancouver. It has an area of 60 square miles. Formerly the scene of considerable logging, much of the merchantable timber is removed. There still remains, however, 455,000 M. feet of mature timber and many areas of valuable second-growth and reproduction, which will form the basis for future supplies by the time our mature stands are exhausted. Stock-taking surveys of Provincial forests were continued. The object of these surveys is to ascertain the acreage of productive forest land; the quantity of merchantable timber; the acreage and condition of young stands; topography and other factors affecting protection and development; existing and possible industries for each forest. The Grizzly Hills, Aberdeen, Hardwicke Island, Sonora Island, the Thurlow Islands, and part of the Babine Forest were examined this year. The Grizzly Hills and Aberdeen Forests lie on the Okanagan watershed east of Vernon, and it is from these that much of the water for irrigation of the adjacent farming sections is derived. The Grizzly Hills Forest covers 5S0 square miles, of which 22 per cent, contains stands of commercial size, including yellow pine, Douglas fir, larch, spruce, balsam, and lodgepole pine. Fifty per cent, is young growth, of which 80 per cent, is pure lodgepole pine and 20 per cent, mixed young growTth, including spruce, balsam, larch, and fir. The non-productive area is 167 square miles, or 28 per cent. Estimates on Aberdeen are now in course of compilation. AA 6 Department of Lands. 1926 The Provincial forests on the four Coast islands, Hardwicke, Sonora, and the Thurlows, include 97,000 acres, of which 52 per cent, is timbered and estimated to contain 1,000,000,000 feet of mature timber; 23 per cent., or 22,000 acres, are fully stocked young stands; on 14 per cent, the stocking is not yet complete; and 11 per cent, is non-productive, barren, or scrub land. Of 909 square miles of the Babine Forest examined, 800 were found to be commercially productive. Merchantable tie or pulp stands cover 320 square miles, though not all of this is accessible for present utilization; 280 square miles carry thriving young stands; and 200 square miles, though productive, are not yet satisfactorily restocked after fires, one of which occurred in 1922. Cruises on the area are not compiled at present, but preliminary estimates place the stand of ties in excess of 15,000,000 pieces. In addition, there are some 2,000,000 cords of pulp material, mostly spruce. Improvement Programme on Forest Reserves.—Six standard lookouts, situated as follows: Sonora Forest, 1; Yahk Forest, 2 ; Little White Mountain Forest, 1; Inkaneep Forest, 1; and Aberdeen Forest, 1, wrere constructed during the year. Trails to the extent of 88% miles were constructed or rebuilt, also 37 miles of telephone-line. The total cost of these improvements was $17,337.76. Equipment for forest-protection placed on reserves, consisting of one launch, three power-pumps, hose, tools, and camp equipment, cost $6,103.03. LUMBER TRADE EXTENSION. Educational work in relation to British Columbian woods was continued in the Eastern Canadian market. A special folder, printed in French, was prepared for the benefit of architects and builders in Quebec Province. Work in the schools was undertaken to give the scholars a knowledge of our woods and their quality. This work met with instant success, and for a time the demand for samples and literature was greater than could be supplied. The Lumber Commissioner was able to render valuable assistance to the British Columbia Consolidated Shingle Manufacturers' Association in regard to quality tests of its products, which were carried out in Eastern Canada. The exhibit at the Canadian National Exhibition was rearranged and brought up to date. This display again attracted a great deal of attention and was instrumental in introducing British Columbian woods to thousands of people, each of whom uses, in some form, forest products. WATER-BORNE TRADE. The water-borne trade reached 712,743 M. feet, board measure, a very substantial increase over 1925 and a new high record in this line. The Atlantic still remains our chief market for water-borne lumber, but during the year Japan purchased 177,193 M., which was 164 per cent, over last year and more than any preceding year. In reviewing the figures on purchases of timber supplied to the various countries in relation to the total purchases on the Pacific Coast, they appear satisfactory except for Australia. The demands of the Australian market increased during the year by 13 per cent., but the total purchased in British Columbia was 10 per cent, less than in the previous year. Water-borne Lumber Trade, 1921-26. Destination. Australia New Zealand South America China Japan United Kingdom and Continent South Africa India and Straits Settlements .. United States Philippine and Hawaiian Islands West Indies and Cuba South Sea Islands Mexico Egypt Foreign, unclassified Totals Feet B.M. 27,275,928 4,553,603 1,317,825 41,944,011 52,447,160 13,592,562 2,931,909 8,429,403 25,553,543 1,158,805 20,668 941,422 8,566,400 188,733,2 1922. Feet B.M. 55,949,129 4,516,862 3,244,776 24,640,268 72,339,631 12,698,383 2,415,500 7,249,487 83; 856,504 94,764 30,065 1,841,578 4,269,953 273,146,800 Feet B.M. 78,003,423 11,252,890 717,600 36,398,234 105.916,915 16,201,290 8,221,032 4,803,236 248,611,600 4,361,139 994,341 3,665,241 677,756 1,705,394 177,041 521,707,132 Feet B.M. 34,848,783 12,169,230 752,906 25,595,993 79,107,984 41,527,008 10,681,208 2,228,150 313,104,821 134,690 544,604 3,454,183 6,883,-50 229.60S 531,262,318 Feet B.M. 40,228,887 12,619,730 2,168,921 10,783,086 07,671,449 53,845,679 8,875,544 3,359,869 361,016,940 56,863 667,012 2,610,143 12,820,848 835,317 577,560,288 1926. Feet B.M. 36,809,373 16,201,328 1,160,947 4,616,921 177,193,659 41,575,593 17,651,788 1,653,675 400,347,692 221,378 8,792,765 3,791,670 2,573,529 154,038 712,743,256 17 Geo. 5 Forest Branch. AA 7 THE INDUSTRY. The value of the industry is estimated at $84,802,000. The increase is largely due to increase in volume, the price being, if anything, lower than in 1925. Estimated Value of Production. Lumber Pulp and paper.. Shingles Boxes.. Piles, poles, and mine-props Cordwood, fence-posts, and mine-ties Ties, railway Additional value contributed by the wood-using industry Laths and other miscellaneous products Logs exported Pulpwood exported Totals . 133,533,000 13,500,000 7,032,000 2,000,000 1,479,000 1,180,000 2,314,000 2,034,000 250,000 1,648,000 1,970,000 $26,400,000 12,590,000 9,750,000 1,726,000 959,000 1,187,000 1,526,000 2,000,000 400,000 2,939,000 $59,477,000 $47,600,000 15,018,000 9,869,000 2,072,000 2,200,000 1,500,000 1,715,000 2,000,000 500,000 4,200,000 $86,674,000 $41,800,000 13,938,000 10,000,000 2,272,000 2,100,000 1,400,000 2,242,000 2,100,000 550,000 4,300,000 1,702,000 1925. $41,350,000 14,466,000 10,000,000 2,200,000 2,400,000 1,800,000 1,990,000 2,100,000 1,617,000 3,870,000 148,000 $81,941,000 $84,802,000 PULP AND PAPER. The year witnessed considerable activity in pulp and paper. A new paper-machine was opened at Powell River, increasing the capacity there to 450 tons daily. The old Beaver Cove Pulp and Paper Company was reorganized under " The Canadian Forest Products Company " and new plans were laid for future development. Many inquiries were received and some investigations carried out with regard to development of new projects. The production of pulp and paper is shown below. Pulp. Pulp. Sulphite Sulphate Ground wood 1919. 1920. 1921. Tons. 80,347 9,473 99,769 Tons. 92,299 16,380 108,665 Tons. 68,502 6,519 89,725 Tons. 86,894 9,674 100,759 99,878 9,932 107,266 89,839 14,403 112,001 Tons. 92,514 16,856 121,363 108,381 15,000 136,123 Paper. Product. Newsprint... Other papers. 1919. 1920. 1921. 1922. 1923. Tons. 142,928 7,709 1924. 1925. Tons. 123,607 7,202 Tons. 136,832 9,792 Tons. 110,176 6,934 Tons. 124,639 7,945 Tons. 136,281 9,653 Tons. 148,201 9,261 Tons. 176,924 10,389 ORGANIZATION AND PERSONNEL. No important changes occurred in organization. The Assistant Grazing Commissioners were assigned to the two districts, Cariboo and Southern Interior, where the grazing is chiefly centred. The Ranger staff was increased by four and additional men were placed on the temporary cruising staff to take care of the heavy volume of cruising-work. Late in the season one Assistant Forester was employed and assigned to the study of the wTaste-products problem. In general it may be stated that the work is constantly increasing and demanding an ever-increasing staff, if .proper inspection of field operations is to be undertaken and the work done in a businesslike and satisfactory manner. Our staff is very limited in comparison with other Government services administering adjacent areas. AA 8 Department of Lands. The following table gives a classification of personnel:— Distribution of Force, 1926. Permanent. Temporary. <v 0 . a_ « IS O S ra d rt t3 H rt a a 01 o CQ fc g a 0 an T3 rt ■a 3 O g rt 0 0» ■a 3 a c O 01 . 0 «? be 31 O +» g £.2 "5 0) I tag a 0 ■ •a 5 au rt S'i CO O s m CO S -2 .2 a > rt < a rt OJ <1 5 of'3 O ci ^ <r j__ -1- J* II w rt O 0 P rt . ?. fc- ° i| & a a m ha & at so 0 l| of C ____■ a^ 0 & H 0) bo c rt 0 0 J . *3 ei _3 a a d fc. c ©.£ Eh a . 0 0 m 5 f-3 's Ofe CJ-«j j<. Q 02 <■-. CQ < s £ rt 0_ Eh H 0 o£ r* < OhQ -JO! OB, H 1 1 1 1 4 , 3 2 2 5 9 16 22 30 1 1 1 1 i i 3 4 39' 1 1 3 3 9 "3' "2 3 5 6 7 16 20 i i 1 8 3 8 14 27 35 3 10 6 25 22 11 6 60 29 "e' oi' 34 41 124 170 3 1 2 120 2 Totals 3 1 « 6 5 43 19 3 10 56 11 91 3 75 131 23 61 543 INVESTIGATIONS. (A.) COAST. I. Natural Reproduction Studies. (a.) Reproduction Surveys.—No further work was done during the year, as it was felt that results already accomplished were sufficient for present needs, and that this work does not tend to solve basic problems in natural regeneration. (6.) History Maps.—To secure data on the results of present conditions of the forest, maps have been prepared on ten representative areas of Coast timber, giving a complete record of logging, with date of each setting, and a record of subsequent happenings, such as slash-disposal, fire occurrence, regeneration, etc. By this method we will, in a few years, have definite information on the results of these occurrences in nature and the behaviour of these sites if left to chance. (c.) Seed Dissemination.—Work was continued on this project, and the number of seed-traps increased to 100 portable, 6 by 4 feet, and 25 permanent, 6 by 12 feet or 6 by 36 feet. These are arranged at distances up to 80 chains from the parent tree, and observation maintained as to how many fertile seeds are caught in each and what this represents to the acre. During the current year hemlock was caught at SO chains, cedar at 20, and Douglas fir at 10. The following table shows the total amount of seed caught of all species up to November 5th, 1926. Owing to the presence of snow on the areas under study it was not possible to make examinations of these traps during the month of December. In Green Timber. Distance in Chains from Green Timber. 2. 5. 10. 15. 20. 25. 30. 40. 50. 60. 70. SO. 485 105 9,292 89 22 1,738 14 4 724 14 7 665 8 1 259 8 3 363 4 1 454 9 4 2 172 1 1 182 Mixed stand D.B.H., 12.8 i per acre. tr and hi Age, 96 years ; average 111 feet; 305 trees Union Bay. Reproduction ten years after logging, 2,500 17 Geo. 5 Forest Branch. AA 9 The preceding table detailed by species :- Douglas fir: Seeds caught .... Viable seeds caught Average viable seeds per acre Hemlock: Seeds caught Viable seeds caught Average viable seeds per acre Cedar: Seeds caught Viable seeds caught Average viable seeds per acre In Green Timber. 90 12 1,062 135 9 796 260 84 7,434 Distance in Chains from Green Timber. 2. 5. 10. 15. 20. 25. 30. 40. 50. 60. 70. 6 5 1 1 2 181 190 72 4 6 6 6 3 8 3 14 2 3 1 2 1 2 1,106 362 285 259 242 454 172 17 4 3 2 1 1 1 1 8 1 0 1 632 181 190 121 1 1 182 Seed production has undoubtedly a marked influence on the quantity of seed caught or the reproduction established in any year. For example, after the good seed-year of 1023 fifty Douglas fir seedlings per acre established in 1924 at CO chains from the parent tree. In 1924 the Douglas fir seed-crop was a failure, and during 1925 and 1926 Douglas fir and hemlock seed-crops were very light, so that little or no new regeneration was found to follow these years. This variation in the seed-crop is to a great extent responsible for the diversity in the number of seeds caught and seedlings found from time to time. In co-operation with the three western Forest Experiment Stations of the United States Forest Service further data will be secured on seed dissemination by releasing known quantities of seed at a given height and under ascertained wind velocity. The seed will then be collected at various points to ascertain how far and in what quantities they travel under known conditions. (d.) Seed Viability.—The viability studies to determine how long seed would remain fertile when stored in duff were continued, and the first samples of seed were taken up and given a germination test. The results were negative. To supplement these tests and get further data on the stored-seed theory, 10 plots, 4 by 12 feet, were screened to keep out any wind-blown seed immediately after a hum, but still having duff up to 4 inches thick. The resultant germination, if any, will .be solely due to seed stored in the duff. (e.) Seed Germination and Seedling Survival in Forest.—In order to determine the effect on germination and survival of different forest seed-bed conditions, known quantities of Douglas fir, hemlock, and cedar seed were sown on sites representing the following conditions: Bare mineral soil; spring burn; light bracken cover—level; light bracken cover—steep north slope; light bracken cover—steep south slope; and 25, 50, and 75 per cent, shade. Germination was low and a high mortality occurred, due to heat leisons, especially in Douglas fir, but further work must be done before any concrete results can be announced. Surface-soil temperatures were much higher than air temperature and varied with the seed-bed as follows, when air temperature was 83° F.;— Deg F_ Level spring burn 145 30 per cent, southern slope, bracken 143 Level hare mineral soil 128 30 per cent, northern slope, bracken 108 Level light bracken 98 The highest soil temperature occurred on spring burns, and on these areas the highest mortality in seedlings was observed. Studies in natural regeneration indicate that for satisfactory restocking we must have an abundant seed-supply and favourable seed-bed conditions. Dry hot years, such as have been experienced since 1924, are especially detrimental. II. Artificial Reproduction. (a.) Nursery Practice.—Ten nursery beds, 4 by 12 feet, were prepared and sown with Monterey pine, Sitka spruce, Douglas fir, cedar, hemlock, and some Japanese species. This stock is intended for experimental purposes. The Sitka spruce will be set out in areas which originally carried Douglas fir to determine the possibility of increasing the amount of spruce available for AA 10 Department op Lands. 1926 use with hemlock in the manufacture of pulp. An additional area has been prepared, and next year more beds will be sown with Sitka spruce, Port Orford cedar, and redwood. The beds will be sown sparsely, as it is the intention to transfer the plants directly from the seed-beds to the field. (b.) Planting.—The experimental fire-break started in 1925 was completed by planting an additional 6,000 alder. A small plantation of 500 redwood, secured from the nurseries of the University of Washington, was made in order to test this species under our climate. This species showed 87 per cent, survival at the close of the season. III. Yield. Twelve permanent sample plots were established in Douglas fir and hemlock during the past summer. These will be measured from time to time over a series of years to determine the yield on the various sites with different density of growing stock. IV. Fiee Studies. (a.) Humidity.—A project was started in 1925 and continued through 1926 to determine the variation in relative humidity due to topographic and soil-cover conditions, so that, if possible, readings made under one set of conditions might be interpreted to apply to another. In 1925 self-recording hygrographs were stationed in the open on cut-over lands as follows: Over a wharf; 30 yards from shore; one-half mile, 2 miles, and 3% miles inland. This study showed that, when relative humidity was high at the Coast, there was a marked reduction as we proceeded inland. As the danger-point was approached, however, this difference was less marked. These changes are shown approximately in curves below. Wharij 20 *i V- I l'/z 2 Viz 5 Distance inland in Miles. Viz In compiling the above charts data were taken only for clays when the humidity approached the hazard-point at some time during the day, and reached at least 40 per cent, on the instrument stationed 3% miles from the water. During the past season hygrographs were stationed to record the effect of aspect and cover, as follows:— (a.) Cut-over lands—northern slope. (6.) Cut-over lands—southern slope, (o.) In reproduction 10 feet high. Fir log 2 feet in diameter, quite sound and with pieces of original bark still in place, straddled by cedar 2C1 years old. Lot !)17, Gordon Pasha Lakes. >" •-■■-. ."m^jf-.trnT-n ti-r. ..•.-.., - .•>_■•» ..- ... -.rt The poplar in this stand seeded in after a fire which occurred in the spruce type about seventy years ago. A new crop of spruce has started under the poplar, and in a few years will have crowded it out and become completely re-established 17 Geo. 5 Forest Branch. AA 11 ((..) In reproduction 20 feet high—instrument in crowns 13 feet above ground. (e.) Same as above, but instrument 1% feet from ground and under crown canopy. (/.) Under mature green forest. Sufficient data were not secured to draw definite conclusions and the experiment will be continued next season. The information already secured indicates very little difference exists between northern and southern aspect, where slope is moderate. Where reproduction is established humidity increases and is highest under pole stands, where crown canopy is dense and relatively low. As the relative humidity approaches the hazard-point, however, these differences tend to equalize. (6.) Empirical Studies on the Behaviour and Control of Fires.—Observations were made on five fires during the past summer, and records were made of the humidity, temperature, wind-velocity, type of forest fuels, topography, and rate of spread. The studies have not progressed sufficiently to present conclusive results, except that, on the Coast, humidity is the most important indicator of the behaviour of fires and that wind-velocity is a factor of less importance. The studies showed no correlation between relative humidity and wind-velocity. Fires appear to be in good shape so long as the humidity remains high, but when the humidity drops below 30 per cent, these same fires frequently go out of control. Approximately 35 per cent, appears to be the danger-point. (c.) Fire Occurrence.—Studies in fire occurrence, due to the dropping of matches, cigarettes, and other lighted substances, were undertaken. Results to date indicate that dropped matches are a more prolific cause of Are than cigarette-stubs. Of the latter, the ready-made variety is the more hazardous. Further laboratory tests, where humidity and other factors can be controlled, are now in hand and should give valuable data on this problem. (B.) CENTRAL INTERIOR. I. Natural Reproduction Studies. (a.) Reproduction Survey after Fires.—This study wyas undertaken to secure accurate information of the nature and amount of natural reproduction after forest fires in the spruce forests, which occupy such large areas in the region east of Prince George. During 1926 a number of burned areas were examined by test-strips, having an aggregate length of approximately 1,000 chains (12% miles), and 17 sample plots were established. It has not been possible to compile the statistics in time for the printing of this report, but the investigations of the past summer indicate that the fires which have swept through extensive areas of the spruce type occurred principally between 1855 and 1915. While most of the burned areas again bear a forest-cover, the process of natural reproduction has been slow, and the young stands are inferior in quality to the original forests which existed in the same localities. In most cases spruce was originally replaced by poplar (Populus tremuloides and P. trichocarpa), but it is encouraging that in many places fine stands of young spruce are being established by natural seeding under these nurse species. Many of the poplar stands are surprisingly heavy, and with better economic conditions in future years will be valuable as pulp-wood. (b.) Factors affecting Reproduction in the Spruce-Balsam Type.—Throughout the spruce forests of the Northern Interior natural reproduction is abundant under the mature timber, but this young growth is almost entirely balsam (Abies lasiocarpa), a species at present of little value and so susceptible to attacks of fungus-disease that it is unlikely to become a desired tree in the future. A study of the factors responsible for these conditions has been undertaken, with the object of developing a basis for forest management whereby in the future a greater proportion of spruce regeneration may be obtained. This study will require several years for completion. Twelve permanent sample plots were established in 1926, on which all tree-growth was measured and classified; on each plot portions of the soil were artificially treated, to determine the effect of root competition and seed-bed conditions upon young seedlings. These plots are to be under observation through several growing seasons. (o.) The Reproduction and Growth in Spruce-Balaam Forests after Logging.—The object of this study is to determine the number of seedlings and small trees which are left after logging operations, and their rate of growth when they have been released from the suppressing influence of the parent stand. The information secured will serve as a basis for the management of AA 12 Department of Lands. 1926 cut-over areas, and will also indicate whether artificial methods of reforestation will be necessary to keep such forest land productive. The study wTas started in 1926 and will be continued for several years. Four permanent plots were established. The preliminary figures from these plots are as follows:— Number of Trees per Acre. (Seven Years after Logging in a Typical Spruce Forest at Aleza Lake, B.C.) Trees established per .Icre. Spruce. Balsam. Birch. 130 120 620 780 20 770 Totals 250 1,400 790 These figures are encouraging; they indicate that after logging there is a healthy reproduction produced naturally. However, further investigations are necessary to determine if this new stand, composed largely of balsam, will remain healthy, and if the proportion of spruce, the valuable species, is likely to increase in the future. . The tremendous increase in birch is an interesting factor for consideration, and, in addition, continued study will have to be made over a period of years to determine the time required for this young stand to produce a second cut of saw-timber or pulp-wood. II. Bbush-disposal in the Spruce-Balsam Type. Proper disposal of slash after logging in the spruce forests of the Interior is essential in securing adequate protection against fire, and this study has been undertaken to determine the relative costs of the various methods of brush-disposal that have been proposed for this region, together with their effects upon logging costs, fire hazard, and the establishment and development of second growth. This study is being made in a special timber-sale on the experiment forest at Aleza Lake. In this sale the five following methods of brush-disposal are being carried out on sample plots :— (a.) Piling and burning concurrently at the time of logging. (&.) Piling at the time of logging and burning later. (c.) Leaving the brush in unburned piles. (d.) Lopping and scattering. (e.) Lopping only. The cost of each method is being determined on these plots, and the experiment will be repeated each year, with modifications which may appear advisable, as long as may be desirable. The various plots will be kept under observation after logging, to note the effect of each method of disposal upon natural reproduction and the reduction of fire hazard. III. Mensuration—Tables of Volume and Yield. During the year the following tables have been prepared:— (a.) Volume table, in board-feet, based on total height, for spruce in the Northern Interior. (6.) Volume tables, in cubic feet, for merchantable and total contents, based on total height, for lodgepole pine throughout the Interior, (c.) Volume table, in board-feet, based on total height, for balsam in the Northern Interior. (d.) Normal yield table for lodgepole pine in the Northern Interior. (In course of preparation.) 17 Geo. 5 Forest Branch. AA 13 Lodgepole Pine—Volume in Merchantable Cubic Feet, Interior of British Columbia. (Volume Table in Cubic Feet to a Top Diameter inside Bark of 3 Inches with a Stump 1 Foot high.) Heigh in Feet. D.B.H. Average Total Heit'ht. D.B.H. 40. 50. 60. 70. 80. 90. 100. 110. 120. 130. Average Volume. Contents in Cubic Feet. 6 3.75 5.19 6.79 8.51 10.37 12.36 4.72 6.55 8.57 10.77 13.13 15.65 18.29 21.09 23-94 26.84 5.70 7.91 10.36 13.03 15.89 18.93 22.13 25.53 28.98 32.48 35.97 39.21 41.76 6.68 9.27 12.12 15.27 18.64 22.21 25.97 29.95 34.01 38.12 42.22 46.04 49.04 51.77 54.18 56.30 7.66 10.62 13.92 17.50 21.37 25.47 29.78 34.37 39.03 43.75 48.46 52.84 56.31 59.46 62.25 64 70 66.90 8.65 11.98 15.68 19.74 24.08 28.72 33.59 38.76 44.03 49.37 54.70 59.66 63 57 67.15 70.31 73.10 75 60 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 53.5 60.0 66.3 72.3 77.3 81.7 85.3 88.3 91.0 93.0 95.0 96.6 98.2 100.0 102.0 104.0 106.0 7 13.35 17.47 21.92 26.75 31.92 37.36 43.14 49.02 54.97 60.93 66.46 70.84 74.84 78 37 81.60 84.30 8 9 10 11 29.42 35 13 41.12 47.50 53.99 60.65 67.13 73.24 78.09 82.50 86 43 90.00 93.00 11.42 15.78 20.63 12 44.88 51.85 58.95 66.41 73.33 80.02 85.32 90.17 94.48 98.40 101.70 13 14 63.88 72.13 79.49 86.77 92.56 97.80 102.50 106.80 110.40 44.53 IS 51.05 16 17 18 19 20 74 84 21 22 89.50 Department of Lands. 17 Geo. 5 Forest Branch. AA 15 IV. The Growth in Stands of Lodgepole Pine after Selective Cutting for Ties. The cutting of lodgepole pine railway-ties is the principal forest industry throughout large areas of the Northern Interior, especially along the Canadian National Railway between Prince George and Hazelton. In most of the stands where ties are cut only a few of the trees are large enough to be utilized, and a study has been undertaken to determine the effect of the removal of the larger trees upon those which are left and to find the time required for these smaller trees to grow to merchantable size for ties. In this investigation eight sample plots were established during 1926 in typical tie operations in the vicinity of Prince George. It is expected that the analysis of the data secured from these plots will yield preliminary figures of the desired information and future measurements of the plots over a period of years will furnish more accurate figures. Additional plots will be established during 1927 and subsequent years. General—Aleza Lake Demonstration Forest. The development of this forest has formed an important part of the investigative programme for the year. The forest was reserved for experimental purposes in 1924; it comprises 6,100 acres of mature spruce-balsam timber and 200 acres of cut-over land, and is situated near Aleza Lake, on the Canadian National Railway, in the heart of the spruce region. The forest is used during the summer as a headquarters for research-work throughout the Central Interior, and also provides field conditions for most of the investigations dealing with the spruce types. When the information obtained in the various studies is sufficiently complete to form a basis for experimental silvicultural cutting, these will be' made in the forest itself. It is planned to operate the demonstration forest on a basis of sustained yield under intensive forestry practice as a means of demonstrating to owners and operators of forest land the advantages, economic and communal, which accrue from the application of sound forestry practice. As far as possible, the annual cuttings in the demonstration forest will be experimental in nature, thus combining in a single operation the investigative and illustrative phases of the work. The first logging is being carried out during the winter of 1926-27. Certain necessary improvements have been constructed in the forest. During 1926 the system of trails for fire-protection was extended and certain mapping-work completed. The Experiment Station road and grounds were improved and a second building erected for the field staff. RECONNAISSANCE. As a result of an application by a prospective pulp company, an examination was made of Crown areas on the west coast of Vancouver Island between Nootka and Barkley Sounds. Of the 69,000 acres covered in this cruise, only 5,000 acres were found to contain commercial timber, estimated at 133,440 M. feet, board measure. Some 2,000 acres were found to have soil of agricultural value, but the cost of clearing and the isolation render settlement impracticable and, at present, undesirable. A cruise was made on Graham Island of 60,000 acres, covering the headwaters of Yakoun River. The area was found to contain 1,168,000 M. feet, board measure, of spruce, hemlock, and cedar. This area has been offered for sale as a pulp licence and will probably be sold in the near future. LAND CLASSIFICATION. A classification survey was carried out along the south-western boundary of the Babine Forest to determine what sections were chiefly valuable for forest and what had agricultural value, special consideration being given to soil characteristics and fertility. Approximately 90,000 acres were covered in the survey, of which one-half was found suitable for agricultural development and the balance better suited for forest-crops. Five thousand acres carried stands of commercial timber, 75,000 acres were in process of restocking, and 10,000 acres were recent burn, where reproduction was not yet established. The forest for the most part is of the lodge- pole-pine type. The best agricultural section was situated between Rose and Burns Lakes, where 6,000 acres were shown to be good farm land. The agricultural value was arrived at through the preparation of soil-type maps, contour and cover maps. The soil maps will be an aid to prospective settlers looking for locations in this vicinity and may be supplemented by data on soil-analysis. AA 16 Department of Lands. 1926 A classification survey was made for purposes of laud settlement in the Prince George District, covering 100,000 acres. Of this area, 40,000 acres were found to carry statutory timber, containing a total stand of 590,000 M. feet, board measure, and 48,000 acres were found suitable for agricultural development, but will require considerable clearing. Miscellaneous areas reported on for purposes of land settlement under the "■ Land Act " are shown in the following tables :— Areas examined for Miscellaneous Purposes op " Land Act." Forest District. Cariboo Fort George..... Kamloops Prince Rupert. . Southern Interior Vancouver Totals... Applications for Crown Grants. No. 2 Acres. 227 726 204 410 Applications for Grazing and Hay Leases. 29 1 2 32 Acres. 4,512 Applications for Pre-emption Records. No. 62 35 18 18 Acres. 8,860 6,832 1,120 5,273 2,115 1,461 25,661 Applications to Purchase. 32 9 19 61 40 207 Acres. 6,507 4,810 1,018 4,131 9,688 4,281 Miscellaneous. 38 91 2 68 224 152 Acres. 6.0S0 116,277 45 5,319 74,144 63,500 265,365 Classification of Areas examined in 1920. Forest District. Total Area. Agricultural Land. Non-agricultural Land. Merchantable Timber Land. Estimate of Timber on Merchantable Timber Land. Acres. 26,186 127,999 2,183 15,449 86,463 69,652 Acres. 3,118 65,918 580 4,562 4,460 5,890 84,534 Acres. 23,068 62,081 1,603 10.8S7 82,003 63,756 243,398 Acres. 1,280 40,723 1,827 4,149 2,125 50,104 M.B.M. 13,341 009,031 20,302 35,777 68,822 327,932 737,273 TAXATION VALUATION SURVEY. The Forest Branch undertook valuation cruises for the Taxation Branch for the first time during the year 1926, and covered 24,937 acres of Crown-granted land in the Prince George District and 6,940 acres in the Alberni District. In the Prince George area 12,964 acres were found to be timber land, and in the Alberni District 1,633 acres were so classified. FOREST ENTOMOLOGY. Control-work on bark-beetles in the yellow pine south of Merritt was continued in the spring of 1926. A total of 3,358 yellow pine and lodgepole pine trees were cut and the bark burned at an average cost of $2.46 per tree. The large infested areas of yellow pine in the region to which our control measures are being restricted, lying between Merritt and Canyon House east of the Coldwater River, have all been worked over. However, the recleaning of some of these areas, together with the treatment of small scattered infestations, will probably require the disposal of 3,000 trees next season. Kelowna Watershed.—Insect-control in the lodgepole pine on this watershed may be considered as more or less of-an experiment. This beetle (Dendroctonus monticola) has destroyed large areas of lodgepole pine south of the boundary-line in the United States and there are also several large infestations in this Province. The forest entomologists are still uncertain of the practicability of attempting to hold it in check in those sections where conditions are most favourable for its spread. It does, however, appear advisable to investigate the possibilities of control of this insect, owing to the extent of our lodgepole pine areas and the growing importance of this species. It was anticipated last year that a large number of trees would require treatment in 1926, and nearly 10,000 were disposed of this season at an average cost of 72 cents per tree. While it is a little too early to draw definite conclusions on the practicability of attempting control-work 17 Geo. 5 Forest Branch. AA 17 on other areas, indications are that, as far as this particular area is concerned, the control-work has materially assisted in checking the epidemic, and a much smaller number of trees will require treatment in 1927. The fact that this area lies on a watershed of great importance to the fruit industry warrants a special study of this insect-control problem. Other Infestations.—Every year more attention is being given by forest authorities to the part played by insects in the life of our forests, and they are beginning to appreciate the necessity of watching all incipient infestations and of being prepared to institute control measures, if practicable, for those which show signs of becoming epidemic. These measures, to be effective, should be preceded by a thorough study of the life-habits of the insects concerned. During 1926 several species of destructive insects have been under the special observation of Mr. Ralph Hopping and his assistants, of the Entomological Bureau of the Dominion Government. The spruce bud-worm, which was so much in evidence in the Quesnel Lake region in 1924 and almost entirely disappeared in 1925, became again more prominent in 1926. Several small infestations in the Douglas fir on Vancouver Island were also reported this year £nd examined. While these Western infestations of spruce bud-worm have not yet become serious, the devastations of this insect in the Eastern Provinces emphasize the necessity of carefully watching the situation here. A study has been made of the life-history of the flathead borer (Trachykele blondeli) and the damage caused by it to the cedar on the Lower Coast between Sechelt and Toba Inlets. The leport has not yet been published by the Dominion Entomological Branch. During the past couple of years various rumours have been received of serious damage to valuable stands of Sitka spruce on the Queen Charlotte Islands. Mr. Hopping made a personal investigation of the epidemic and identified the insect as an aphis (Myzaphis abietina). While the appearance of the spruce stands seemed to indicate that large numbers of trees were dying, a close examination showed that the insect was working mostly on the older needles, and the younger needles and buds were seldom attacked. Little damage may be expected unless the epidemic continues for several years and increases in intensity. The few records possessed by entomologists of other infestations by this insect indicate that the above inference is correct, and epidemics usually die down before causing serious damage. LOG SCALING. The cut for the year, as shown by the scaling returns, increased to 2,918,119 M. feet, board measure, which does not include fuel nor the material cut for rural use on farms, etc. For this material returns are not received, but it is estimated at approximately 250,000 M. feet. This makes a grand total of 3,168,119 M. feet, as the total drain on our forest resources, 82 per cent, of which is of sawlog quality. Douglas fir represents 42 per cent, of the total cut, and this species shared to a greater extent in this year's expansion than any other. Cedar showed a falling-off due to a disrupted market and prevailing low prices. The cut of yellow pine and larch is also a reduction over last year's, while the reduction in the number of ties cut is reflected largely in lodgepole pine. AA 18 Department op Lands. 1926 . Oi • ■ . - (M ■ . c£> . .-to . ■ CO • ■CO • ■CO ■ . HI . - .-o . 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C o gj , >. fc^ Ortrtrtrtrt^.c^rtrtrt^ Ort=*rt=; Ort^prtrt^ 0^*,— oxfc'j^ cTrt-Hrt- OrtrtPrt^rt Crtrtfc,^ 0^^^ 0^^,^: ri s g-6 g - SP r - 17 Geo. 5 Forest Branch. AA 19 err, M W IS. 02 co eo *a oi o.mxoi rr O SO lO 00 Tt* ig © Hi © ■a Ol © Ol Ol © o © © o © © © o IG i-4 00 Hi SO © © © of Ol eo t^ f-t j>. tH t- © OS 00 © of co Ol © o CQ 00 oo © eo Hi tH IG OS t- © Ol r-t Ol Ol Hi 00 © CO OS H* Ol iO © © CO Ol Ol « Ol " « i-H t. © o CO OH iG © T CO * CO 00 t>. iG Ht td a S o" LO ©" © © ©" 1 1 o © © © >^ h 5 r- © r- 00 00 2 OS rH O O ©r- t- i— t- eo 00 rft t- IG CO co © _• CO »o ■ rti M l- Ol CO IG 0) © H* © © © rH © CO Ol . ON ro rf © 9.U3 X O CO © © Hi IG © rH HI © H* © © © t- Ort IO © © © CO 00 co © Ol 00 Ol Hi O Hi IG Cj CO CO CO CO Ol O^NO eo to a © 5 o IQHO 00 <X> rH 01 01 Ol 1-1 © © Ol © eo © © t~ J>- © IG 4,968,477 7,520,629 17,102,427 37,778,274 © CO © © OJ H* I- 00 © o O !■# CO © IQ t- IG H- Ol of p. CO © rtO 3 © eo eo i> IG ©_ ■CO o © © © © © ©" © © © © © of s © © © 1- cc" CO bot, o &fl w CD O *T E t* g s rt s AA 20 Department of Lands. 1926 CO CI -i CS < m tH P tr O O w 3/1 ^r. a s pq M o o '3 C5 00 Od 00 of CO CD hT l> rH of °i of 00 Ol IG l> © ■is CO SO © eo tfl o ri IG CO © Ol IG © OJ 00 o © CO" CO © CO © © CO eo CO Ol _a SO s '3 o ©1> © Ol © 00 H*"ih" iG O t- iG CO tH Ol Ol Ol IG of tO o IG eo ©" eo oo lO eo >G CO of 00 CO Ol iO lO 00 1 Ol o o Ol of 00 Ol H* Ol eo CO oi 8,265,498 119,091,033 53,568,685 294,404,532 00 of Ol oo lO m © rt* © t-^i-T 1> 1-t L- ©_ o of ih oi of rh kQ of 00 1 CM © Ol ©" i >G Ol © 4,510,502 97,589,200 64,772,202 283,825,010 © Ol eo ©" © © © as 177,010,753 1,983,558,854 2,160,589,607 Ol © CD © of 01 s t- o &4 c c £ "E a 1 T c 1 « __; c c [ 1 ,1 c a c < E- c C a a e. C X ! > e C c c C PC *. c ■j \ < p H «4 H 02 a B 00 CO >o IG Ol © Ol ^ © CC X Hi CO O C CM HI © CO 1- 'G 1^ o iG ■f3 °ri o . 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CC IT rj* © HJh CO " © ■> of i H< - ■ ir rt CO - OJ oo © 00 c OC 1 H* Hi © © CO © u: Hi Ol i— H* © CN a X of eoiHodi- c co" -v © X 00 H © lOHiQlOff a X H* tH r4 © SC © oj co © e LT eo H IT © o © if .2 O- 0 © 5 J___ *- ■g 0j ML rH ^, ai of (fl o Ul c 11 O fe oO o a) 2 c -" ,,~ °_S £ E- H , cj O " t. n r c Li - DQ> 17 Geo. 5 Forest Branch. AA 21 LOGGING OPERATIONS. The number of active operations in the Province increased by 13 per cent, to 3,453. These lequired the making of 7,921 inspection reports by our field staff in order to ensure that the Department's interests were protected, the marking properly done, and that cutting was confined to tbe proper areas. As a result of these inspections 84 cases of trespass were discovered, as compared with 87 in 1925. The area cut over and the quantity of lumber involved, however, were considerably less than during the previous year. The amount of penalties billed on account of illegal cutting totalled $9,457.64. Logging Inspection, 1926. Operations. Forest District. Timber-sales. Hand-loggers' Licences. Leases, Licences, Crown Grants, and .Pre-emptions. Totals. No. at Inspections. 39 191 51 368 455 371 '73 ii 85 261 95 245 607 628 124 452 146 659 1,062 1,010 241 839 471 1,328 1,550 3,492 Totals, 1926 1,475 84 1,921 3,453 7,921 Totals, 1925 1,262 54 1,730 3,046 3,167 7,321 1,245 69 1,853 7,466 Totals, 1923 1,010 914 691 166 2,140 3,316 6,892 Totals, 1922 159 1,579 1,331 2,652 4,654 Totals, 1921 186 2,208 4,053 Totals, 1920 605 220 1,961 2,796 2,703 TRESPASSES, 1926. Forest District. No. of Cases. Areas cut over (Acres). Quantity CUT. o ** H | Offl O t3L fc.S Amount. Feet B.M. Lineal Feet. Cords. Ties. 8 11 4 16 19 26 84 55 98 2. 213 57 95 5,916 61,076 74,202 376,096 121,742 1,334,812 1,972,843 1,955 7,150 91,102 11,385 32,765 126 si 19 107 150 655 6,023 1,800 1,555 200 1 "i % 169 71 564 07 252 55 1,356 45 766 83 6,348 03 Totals, 1926 641 144,357 433 10,233 6 8 9,457 64 Totals, 1925 ... .• 87 645 3,486,609 98,456 1,563 16,820 4 $14,534 94 Totals, 1924 68 670 2,182,808 54,068 767 7,646 2 $ 8,539 86 Totals, 1923 105 1,015 6,712,868 121,202 1,598 2,591 1,639 20,082 8 $27,860 08 Totals, 1922 98 1,059 3,002,881 98,903 27,022 16 $16,406 30 Totals, 1921 98 1,938 3,222,673 209,395 21,605 10 $15,924 22 73 1,788 4,904,079 104,048 1,882 6,716 10 $17,119 85 AA 22 Department op Lands. 1926 TIMBER-SALE TRANSACTIONS. The timber-sales awarded during the year totalled 6S7, an increase of 74 over 1925, with a total revenue value estimated at $1,038,536.69, an increase of 25 per cent, over the previous year. The average stumpage price was slightly less than in 1925. This is due not only to current depression in lumber values, but to the shifting of the centre of our timber-sale business from the Coast to the Interior districts. In 1925 66 per cent, of the sawlog material sold was on the Coast and in 1926 only 50 per cent. In the cut from timber-sales there was a falling-off in sawlogs and cord material equalling 10,800 M. feet, board measure, but an increase in poles and ties equivalent to 4,000 M. feet, board measure. Timbeb-sales awakded by Districts, 1926. District. No. of Sales. Acreage. Saw-timber (Ft. B.M.). Poles and Piles (Lineal Feet). No. ol Posts. Shingle-bolts and Cordwood (No. of Cords). No. of Railway- ties. Estimated Revenue. 31 26 115 154 162 199 3,647 2,527 24,764.10 26,369.78 24,352.70 37,154.65 118,815.23 94,015.25 146,662 163,464 6,359,150 1,376,564 90,314,185 42,541,925 67,708,919 88,186,000 232,818 297,300 2,566,779 1,931,690 469,120 45,700 161,490 3,105 644 4,522 2,084 3,100 175,027 14,912 332,163 143,257 372,900 6,740 $ 24,312 03 10,013 25 279,707 28 Southern Interior .... 224,363 35 211,594 05 288,546 73 Totals, 1926... 687 613 769 295,486,743 5,497,707 6,629,449 207,190 12,877 13,465 40,334 1,044,999 566,142 $1,038,536 69 Totals, 1926... 189,022,314 302,813,267 $ 795,802 20 Totals, 1924... 6,336,071 47,640 23,150 2,418,633 2,304,161 880,307 993,417 6,415,349 957,804 $1,226,460 87 Totals, 1923... 852 616,397,438 6,234,342 $1,513,970 84 Totals, 1922... 671 108,501 249,572,808 188,971,774 440,649,756 245,209,300 3,304,254 2,479,095 2,811,095 149,300 41,580 $ 862,888 49 Totals, 1921... 531 91,614 34,291 $ 646,487 65 Totals, 1920... 594 121,690 61,809 86,726 $1,799,039 03 Totals, 1919... 356 227 2,899,000 378,080 5,000 20,000 40,000 52,557 $ 654,372 09 Totals, 1918... 34,257 44,914 159,659,000 240,307,067 136,345,000 18,478 701,654 $ 380,408 33 Totals, 1917... 255 1,617,450 , 435,810 43,756 381,200 $ 483,281 50 Totals, 1916... 133 23,318 26,666 92,000 $ 259,765 12 Average Sale Price by Species. Saw-timber. Doug-las fir Cedar Spruce Hemlock Balsam White pine Western soft pine., Tamarack Other species Totals Figures for 1926. Board-feet. Price Per M. 57,772,863 $1 67 37,147,149 2 01 106,636,017 1 76 40,746,817 1 01 21,478,293 79 6,370,450 3 98 5,225,470 2 04 425,000 1 47 ' 10,344,684 1 47 •286,146,743 $1 66 Figures for 1925. Board-feet. 960,515 953,370 374,625 038,240 763,909 193,280 909,580 082,850 855,945 184,122,314 Price Per M. $1 78 2 05 1 91 1 03 1 05 3 74 2 07 1 46 1 20 $1 78 Figures for 1924. Price 74,708,507 $1 73 63,367,585 2 28 74,064,508 1 63 33,622,807 1 21 13,295,185 1 10 5,802,597 2 63 9,446,869 1 83 4,804,072 1 63 23,701,137 1 50 $1 74 302,813,267 Figures for 1923. 75,915,023 61,303,504 101,703,592 43,956,950 17,580,743' 4,184,830 28,211,030 6,824,365 6,402,401 345,082,438 Price per M. $1 72 2 25 1 58 1 14 1 10 2 85 1 88 1 80 1 34 $1 68 "Note—9,340,000 board-feet pulp saw-timber not included in above list. — 17 Geo. 5 Forest Branch. AA 23 TlMBEE CUT FROM TlMBER-S.U,ES DUBINQ 1926. Forest District. Feet B.M. Lineal Feet. Cords. Ties. 685,384 1,929,309 48,977,927 24,300,942 48,170,586 118,909,376 242,973,524 251,141,398 230,148,575 207,473,848 187,217,151 179,780,056 168,783,812 5,510 683,524 388,845 2,069,066 1,196,349 631,326 2,460.63 44.00 195.50 5,154.60 1,475.11 7,346.61 34,418 23,783 204,930 449,601 •484,328 1,862 Totals, 1926 4,974,620 16,676.46 1,198,922 4,885,352 4,541,371 20,808.14 1,077,414 Totals, 1924 17,294.00 17,666.65 1,543,915 Totals, 1923 2,753,532 856,628 Totals, 1922, 1,523,744 37,345.91 495,672 Totals, 1921 2,169,550 10,483.00 831,423 Totals, 1920 1,638,549 17,703.00 654,829 Totals, 1919 107,701,950 113,927,610 99,078,832 672,699 499,589 12,208.00 15,539.00 573,286 Totals, 1918 146,807 Totals, 1917 645,429 14,862.00 34,937 Totals, 1916 63,055,102 225,799 8,425.00 Areas ceuised for Timber-sales, 1926. Forest District. Number cruised. Acreage. Saw-timber (M.B.M.). Poles and Piles (Lineal Feet). Shingle-bolts and Cordwood (Cords). Railway- ties (No.). Posts (No.) 19 133 28 173 280 186 2,108 30,233 3,943 25,537 44,662 36,032 145,515 4,660 114,848 12,706 82,620 49,479 105,404 254.210 999,758 1,470,666 1,096,878 415,870 3,075 2,130 2,144 5,734 2,165 144,908 810,482 27,672 220,590 89,243 6,931 20,200 Totals, 1926 819 369,717 353,225 4,236,881 9,113,052 15,248 57,441 1,299,826 1,389,604 20,200 819 119,436 179,609 14,477 942 451,476 8,465,924 41,554 1,873,964 AA 24 Department of Lands. 1926 Saw and Shingle Mills of the Province, 1926. Operating. Shut Down. Sawmills. Shingle-mills. Sawmills. Shingle-mills. Forest District. d to *3 Is S >,', KflS 169 626 528 685 2,540 8,514 12,962 11,475 11,986 11,273 a S ri v a* "is 195 15,404 d fr, Estimated Daily Capacity, M.B.M. d Estimated Daily Capacity, Shingles, M. 36 23 34 26 72 200 1 3 83 87 24 1 14 7 41 15 116 50 256 •430 606 157 1,675 2,121 i 2 1 2 6 120 200 20 120 Totals for 1926 391 15,614 15,322 15,636 102 460 Totals for 1925 363 82 109 9 625 Totals for 1924 359 78 103 2,618 20 16 1,780 352 107 16,144 72 1,493 2,054 2,029 745 Totals for 1922 292 9,683 108 15,544 90 8 680 289 8,912 10,729 79 109 10,885 13,426 78 6 788 341 37 909 2 30 Export of Logs during Year 192G. Species. Grade No. 1. Grade No. 2. Grade No. 3. Ungraded. Totals. F.B.M. 16,291,973 15,798,318 105,700 F.B.M. 53,139,751 50,950,863 1,232,765 F.B.M. 36,824,524 15,136,088 1,152,909 F.B.M. F.B.M. 106,256,248 Fir 81,884,769 2,491,374 24,426,656 4,602,860 4,731,501 84,307 24,426,656 4,602,860 4,731,501 84,307 32,195,991 53,113,521 Totals, 1926 105,322,879 33,845,324 38,901,670 55,763,860 224,477,715 Totals, 1925 34,501,748 96,701,737 111,801,016 40,312,806 210,417,961 Totals, 1924 23,416,816 49,549,135 240,530,827 17 Geo. 5 Forest Branch. AA 25 Shipments of Poles, Piling, Mine-props, Fence-posts, Railway-ties, etc. Quantity exported. Approximate Value, F.O.B. Where marketed. United States. Canada. Japan. Kamloops— Lin. ft., 1,538,795 Lin. ft., 152,292 Cords, 98 Cords, 12 Lin. ft., 452,165 No. 415,102 Cords, 946 Lin. ft., 1,528,282 No. 447,565 Cords, 9 Lin. ft., 7,276,960 Cords, 5,364 No. 842,066 Cords, 67 Cords, 180 Cords, 10,679 Lin. ft., 6,994,643 Cords, 27 Cords, 7,519 t 196,330 18,275 490 72 58,780 252,382 5,670 213,693 26,420 117 1,237,083 59,004 473,136 536 1,620 96,111 1,049,196 266 75,188 1,392,945 400,635 885,945 6,634,465 33,239 180 3,588 6,710,318 24 7,519 145,850 152,292 98 12 51,520 415,102 945 642,337 447,565 9 642,495 5,364 808,827 67 7,09i Fort George- Prince Rupert— Southern Interior— Vancouver— 284,325 3 Total value, 1926 $3,764,369 S3,572,455 PRE-EMPTION INSPECTION REPORTS, 1926. Pre-emption records examined by districts are:— Cariboo 523 Fort George 556 Kamloops 123 Prince Rupert 338 Vancouver 359 Southern Interior 242 Total 2,141 ANALYSIS OF ROUTINE WORK. Draughting Office, Forest Branch. January February.... March April May June July August September.... October November December . .. Totals 10 9 20 8 22 10 14 137 Number of Tracings made. Timber, marks. 157 101 121 107 103 175 62 42 39 43 1,079 Examination Sketches. 50 33 34 43 31 28 43 32 25 28 23 12 Hand-logger Licences. 30 3 7 4 8 4 1 12 Miscellaneous. 18 27 34 61 98 30 47 32 30 20 28 7 Totals. 244 177 229 223 245 246 168 130 103 113 132 105 2,115 Blue-prints from Reference Maps. 19 14 50 90 73 24 26 78 8 24 21 191 618 AA 26 Department op Lands. 1926 TIMBER-MARKING. Timber-marks issued for the Years 1924, 1925, and 1926. 1924. 1925. 1926. Old Crown grants 133 126 130 Crown grants, 1887-1906 , 131 138 162 Crown grants, 1906-1914 168 205 165 Section 53, " Forest Act " 310 350 270 Stumpage reservations 57 36 45 Pre-emptions under sections 28 and 29, " Land Act " 21 30 14 Dominion lands (general) 85 96 28 Dominion lands (timber berths) 10 20 Dominion lands (Indian reserves) 4 21 Timber-sales 769 613 689 Hand-loggers 30 22 16 Special marks 117 Rights-of-way 1 1 Pulp licences 3 Totals 1,705 1,632 1,571 Transfers and changes of marks 258 171 178 Number issued HAND-LOGGERS' LICENCES. 1924. 1925. 1926. 93 102 85 REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE. The direct revenue of the Forest Branch reached the $3,600,000 mark, which is a new high record, exceeding 1925 by $110,000. The increase in the past five years is $908,414, and in the past ten years the annual increase has averaged $176,000. This increase is entirely due to expansion in operations, as shown through stumpage and royalty. Rentals and licence fees are both constantly being reduced as the areas covered are logged or dropped. The charges for active operations during the year were $2,528,822.43, as set out in tables below. Forest Revenue. Timber-licence rentals Timber-licence transfer fees Timber-licence penalty fees Hand-loggers' licence fees Timber-lease rentals Penalty fees and interest Timber-sale rentals Timber-sale stumpage Timber-sale cruising Timber-sale advertising Timber royalty and tax Scaling fees (not Scaling Fund) Scaling expenses (not Scaling Fund).. Trespass penalties Scalers' examination fees Exchange Seizure expenses General miscellaneous Grazing fees Taxation, Crown-grant timber lands.. Total revenue from forest sources 12 Months to Dec. 31, 1926. §1,063,812 90 2,400 00 32,549 14 2,250 00 90,010 89 254 91 20,537 75 572,324 74 7,173 84 1,498 82 1,779,553 60 1,344 75 98 17 11,677 12 850 00 693 04 300 50 3,651 95 $3,590,482 12 12,328 54 410,684 46 84,013,495 12 12 Months to Dec. 31, 1925. $1,130,556 62 3,465 00 28,017 75 2,775 00 92,485 38 283 33 17,045 45 512,399 28 6,296 67 1,403 43 1,658,043 07 1,044 25 253 24 17,841 58 160 00 520 12 1,097 95 4,699 66 $3,478,387 68 14,114 89 398,393 85 $3,890,896 42 12 Months to Dec. 31, 1924. $1,180,179 55 4,650 00 64,653 05 2,460 00 99,974 25 186 92 19,943 01 537,786 50 7,491 04 2,033 96 1,521,001 39 1,564 85 753 27 14,685 27 430 00 1,332 26 654 92 9,392 22 $3,469,112 46 14,240 66 298,973 97 $3,782,327 09 12 Months to Dec. 31, 1923 $1,283,300 77 3,750 00 100,045 86 6,300 00 102,002 40 72 22 28,383 49 431,007 99 9,933 97 3,509 00 1,477,027 24 1,160 89 667 53 11,362 99 495 00 3,168 40 1,559 17 5,907 36 $3,468,714 28 13,651 01 308,041 92 $3,790,407 21 12 Months to Dec. 31, 1922. $1,390,999 64 1,950 00 83,376 60 6,050 00 94,392 31 247 77 26,790 12 358,984 19 8,699 50 2,188 63 1,203,884 89 3,138 05 1,061 94 13,397 91 175 00 357 14 454 36 3,135 47 $3,199,283 51 8,171 21 319,410 51 $3,526,865 23 12 Months to Dec. 31, 1921. $1,193,654 58 3,735 00 50,859 19 9,175 00 81,840 61 21 85 12,659 91 317,4S8 77 4,640 39 1,695 08 990,326 99 2,015 83 765 98 11,245 86 455 00 291 03 330 80 1,972 33 $2,683,174 20 11,221 79 261,896 49 $2,956,292 48 17 Geo. 5 Forest Branch. AA 27 Revenue from Logging Operations, 1926. (Amounts charged.) Royalty and Tax. Trespass Penalties. Seizure Expenses. Government Scale. Scaling Fund. Stumpage. Forest District. Scaling Expenses. Scaling Fees. Scaling Expenses. Scaling Fees. Total. Vancouver Cariboo . Prince Rupert. $1,308,288 82 3,796 49 128,259 43 209,112 51 111,018 02 14,019 48 $ 112 71 1,234 57 242 55 $ 140 45 32 50 207 20 759 73 2 50 $1,142 38 $ 913 29 $ 708 24 $ 48 50 43 84 6 00 $ 98 34 $ 720 39 427 02 $ 16,302 52 977 36 $110,867 25 8,837 50 $241,347 95 3,652 95 127,527 12 115,262 65 106,073 29 19,501 23 $1,677,715 88 7,562 15 267,339 34 324,588 26 Fort George ... Kamloops $ 17,279 88 217,851 04 33,765 76 Totals $1,774,494 75 $1,754,605 06 $1,542,070 96 $1,499,355 83 $1,149,745 76 $1,005,261 61 $ 1,589 83 $1,147 41 $1,254 80 $119,704 75 $613,365 09 $2,528,822 43 Totals, 1925 $59,804 57 $10,860 22 $26,508 75 $ 197 08 $ 548 37 $ 741 56 $ 18,794 39 $ 14,760 12 $116,682 68 $103,691 71 $108,713 66 $103,774 90 $114,450 43 $651,486 17 $597,071 65 $467,048 15 $2,603,738 04 Totals, 1924 $2,179 42 $1,175 22 $2,271,890 69 Totals, 1823 $ 746 59 $ 15,743 96 $2,119,033 72 Totals, 1922 $14,926 63 $1,326 80 $1,933 72 $ 769 08 $1,940 08 $1,256 70 $ 12,407 50 $ 11,396 11 $375,607 42 $396,303 19 $1,661,662 81 Totals, 1921 $14,297 39 $ 516 85 $1,544,251 36 Forest Expenditure, Fiscal Year 1925-26. Forest District. Headquarters .... Cariboo Kamloops Prince George. ... Prince Rupert.... Southern Interior. Vancouver Totals. Salaries. 133 68 454 09 933 00 303 50 794 86 601 61 447 63 $220,568 37 Temporary Assistance. $ 245 S3 2,466 00 665 79 840 00 1,030 00 2,813 62 1,445 09 1,505 83 Expenses. $ 27,689 90 4,657 22 3,422 82 5,183 91 26,556 27 24,421 63 43,879 59 $135,811 21 Total. $117,068 91 13,577 31 11,021 61 19,327 41 49,381 13 60,736 76 94,772 31 , 44 Lumber-trade extension 19,065 30 Reconnaissance, etc 40,984 30 Insect-control 14,506 23 Grazing: range improvement 5,412 96 Grand total. $445,854 23 The sums estimated as being required for the fiscal year 1926-27 were as follows:— Salaries :. $238,569 00 Travelling expenses, Ranger stations, and wireless 46,000 00 Lumber-trade extension 20,000 00 Reconnaissance, etc 45,000 00 Insect damage: investigation and control 15,000 00 Grazing: range improvement 10,000 00 Total $374,569 00 In addition to this total, sums were available from the main Lands Department votes for temporary assistance, office supplies, maintenance of launches and autos, and miscellaneous expenses; publicity, general investigations, and contingencies. The sum of $300,000 was also voted as the amount of the contribution of the Government to the Forest Protection Fund. '■-;' v,', AA 28 Department of Lands. 1926 SCALING FUND. . Balance brought down, April 1st, 1925 $ 5,401 58 Expenditure, fiscal year 1925-26 $146,958 97 Charges, fiscal year 1925-26 139,515 46 Balance, March 31st, 1926 2,041 93 $146,958 97 $146,958 97 Balance brought down, April 1st, 1926 $ 2,041 93 Expenditure, 9 months, April-December, 1926 99,327 00 Charges, 9 months, April-December, 1926 $104,894 04 Balance, being excess of charges over expenditure 3,525 11 $104,894 04 $104,S94 04 FOREST RESERVE ACCOUNT. The following statement shows the standing of the Forest Reserve Account as of December 31st, 1926 :— Amount received from the Treasury, being 3 per cent, of receipts from royalty, tax, and stumpage under subsection (2) of section 2 of the " Forest Act Amendment Act, 1925 " $69,888 40 Expenditure for 9 months ended December 31st, 1926 50,165 00 Balance $19,723 40 CROWN-GRANT TIMBER LANDS. Area of Private Timber Lands Average Value (Acres). per Acre. 1911 ; 824,814 $ 8 72 1912 874,715 8 60 1913 922,948 9 02 1914 960,464 9 66 1915 913,245 9 55 1916 922,206 9 73 1917 : 916,726 9 61 191S ' 896,188 9 60 1919 -. 883,491 9 48 1920 ,. 867,921 11 62 1921 845,111 10 33 1922 887,980 11 99 1923 883,344 11 62 1924 654,668 15 22 1925 654,016 40 61 1926 688,372 39 77 17 Geo. 5 Forest Branch. AA 29 The extent and value of timber land in the various assessment districts are shown by the following table:— Assessment District. Acreage, 1926. Increase or Decrease in Acreage over 1925. Average Value per Acre. Change in Value per Acre since 1925. 96,976 153,278 88,537 48,408 328 31,846 7,129 82,962 31,709 1,164 42,017 58,156 11,295 34,569 688,372 +10,738 + 7,132 - 1,221 - 3,430 + 328 - 4,119 + 2,889 783 4-10,001 618 rt. 2 4- 2,769 + 7,867 -1- 2,811 ■4-34,356 $54 49 50 70 69 77 10 10 14 98» 9 23 12 22 44 81 9 89 20 57 15 261 10 12 66 21 35 75 $39 77 - $ 4 38 20 39 + 43 + 01 76 24 + 1 27 - 12 77 + 68 - 73 00 - 1 95 -$ 84 K Not previously classified as timber land. t No change. FOREST PROTECTION FUND. The following statement shows the standing of the Forest Protection Fund as of December 31st, 1926 :— Balance at April 1st, 1925 $ 52,242 67 Collections, fiscal year 1925-26 $ 176,269 72 Collections under special levy, 1925-26 95,851 35 Government contribution G0O,249 51 872,370 58 $ 924,613 25 Expenditure, fiscal year 1925-26 $1,073,431 70 Less refunds 21,410 31 $1,052,021 39 Refund of revenue 4 00 1,052,025 39 Balance (deficit) $ 127,412 14 Balance (deficit) at April 1st, 1926 : $ 127,412 14 Expenditure, 9 months, April-December, 1926 $ 787,802 05 Less refunds 13,402 52 774,399 53 $ 901,811 07 Collections, 9 months, April-December, 1920 $ 136,708 94 Collections under special levy, 9 months, April- December, 1926 70,409 10 Government contribution 225,153 60 432,271 64 Balance (deficit) $ 469,540 03 AA 30 Department of Lands. 1926 Forest Protection Fund Expenditure. Fiscai Years. 1919-20. 1920-21. 1921-22. 1922-23. 1923-24. 1924-25. 1925-26. 9 months, April 1st to Dec. 31st, 1926. Patrols and fire pre- Tools and equipment. Improvements and $135,452 64,563 165,688 26,555 $163,360 121,353 292,890 68,239 $C27,738 118,933 106,891 17,779 $202,994 91,812 508,992 37,609 $254,792 81,408 75,503 21,667 $344,532 25,418 268,034 5,690 $377,427 33,976 650,138 11,890 $245,548 28,692 604,284 9,328 Totals $392,258 $645,842 $471,341 $841,407 $433,370 $633,674 $1,073,431 $787,802 Expenditure by Districts for Nine Months ended December 31st, 1926. District. Victoria Cariboo Kamloops Prince George ... Prince Rupert .. Southern Interior Vancouver Undistributed ... Totals... Patrols and Fire- prevention. $ 30,760 87 12,021 51 17,340 98 20,244 79 12,233 84 63,428 56 49,517 17 40,000 00 $245,547 72 Tools and Equipment. $17, .237 85 889 93 350 92 619 59 367 87 234 65 991 63 $28,692 34 Fires. $ 12,676 08 21,862 70 14,634 76 2,184 36 410,387 08 42,489 48 $504,234 46 Improvements and Maintenance. $ 3,001 29 89 80 3,037 82 202 18 1,937 34 1,059 10 $9,327 53 Total. $ 47,998 72 28,588 81 40,644 40 39,536 96 14,988 25 478,987 53 97,057 38 40,000 00 $787,802 05 Expenditure for Twelve Months ended April 1st, 1926. District. Victoria Cariboo Kamloops Prince George Prince Rupert ... Southern Interior Vancouver Totals.... Patrols and Fire- prevention. $ 55,571 68 18,837 03 22,885 17 29,270 84 20,059 45 110,641 22 120,162 23 $377,427 i Tools and Equipment. $ 3,332 76 934 06 2,727 71 1,737 90 873 88 13,856 06 10,513 25 $33,975 62 Fires. $ 16,721 40 44,040 67 38,247 06 12,634 70 378,881 98 159,612 60 $650,138 41 Improvements and Maintenance. 84 99 156 99 403 12 24 38 8,516 93 2,703 64 $11,890 05 $ 58,904 44 36,577 48 69,810 54 69,658 92 33,592 41 511,896 19 292,991 72 51,073,431 70 FOREST-PROTECTION. The fire season of 1926 might be described as one of variable intensity over the Province as a whole. The season was normal on the Coast and in the Northern Interior. The Southern Interior region, however, in common with the northerly portions of Idaho, Montana, and Eastern Washington, experienced the worst situation in years, more severe in some respects than 1925. Conditions in the Kamloops District were extremely hazardous during July and early August. The winter of 1925-26 was exceptional throughout the interior of the Province, because of its remarkable mildness and lack of snowfall. The light fall of snow disappeared early, and in the last week in April and early in May, before the green vegetation could start, certain parts experienced a number of fires. The climatic condition in May and June was such that, although a considerable number of fires occurred, they were extinguished with comparatively little loss and at a moderate cost. In early July there developed a very dangerous situation due to a series of lightning-storms in the Interior. On the Coast a humidity of 19 per cent, was registered at Vancouver on July 12th; twenty-two fires were reported on this date and the three most disastrous of the season started and escaped control. Electric storms that covered the Kamloops and the Southern Interior Districts occurred on July 6th and 12th, setting in all over 150 fires. This was followed I II fl & o o o '-4-J Si 4J rti o CD ^_ Pi m _j_ O fl o fB , | k, 3D o Cj s fl a s O 4-> d rtH o o CD ■a o til -H a o> o fl t-H S a < r% < CM Q a *~ ^v < ■_~—■ m 2 D CO t= 1 _J 0 o . 0 I cn i i- ■■■■ IT DQ B a; pl EH fl o sa si H Ul O O si «B o o 3 QG >3 02 M a a; a> -m ft p M r~3 so a '3 o a fl ■-3 O Ph 03 W llll cn tu H U) III a. 0 Ll ■ 17 Geo. 5 Forest Branch. AA 31 by an almost continuous absence of precipitation until August 17th, which, together with strong winds, high temperatures, and low humidities, resulted in a fire situation unparalleled in intensity in this portion of the Province since the inception of organized forest-protection. Copious rains occurred in the Interior during the latter part of August, which practically ended the fire season. An influential factor in keeping down Are losses on the Coast can be laid, in part, to the extraordinary precautions taken by logging operators. Fully 50 per cent, of the Coast operators suspended work entirely during dangerous periods, and the majority of those who continued to work did so on the early-shift plan. Many operators installed hygrographs or humidity reading devices, and watched them for the approach of dangerous conditions. Non-smoking in the woods was a requirement for employment in many of the Coast camps. While the number of lightning-fires in 1926 is less than in 1925, the percentage of the total assigned to this cause still remains approximately the same, at 25.96 per cent. Compared with 12 per cent., the average of the ten years previous to 1925, this shows a remarkable and unex- plainable increase in this hazard. That this increase is not confined to our own country is shown by United States Forest Service records and by the records of power companies and others. FIRE WEATHER WARNING SERVICE. The Superintendent of the Meteorological Service, Victoria, continued the daily fire weather forecast by broadcasting from Station CFYC, Daily Province, Vancouver. As many of the Coast logging camps are equipped with radio receiving sets, this service furnished an excellent way of giving warning of the approach of bad fire conditions. Through the courtesy of the United States Meteorological Service at Spokane the District Forester at Nelson was given a daily weather forecast during the latter part of the season. FIRE OCCURRENCE. A total of 2,147 fires occurred during the season, as compared with 2,521 fires during 1925. This year, however, 53.99 per cent, of the total number occurred in the Southern Interior region, a larger proportion than ever before. The extreme hazard was not so long this year as in 1925, but was more intense, 63.05 per cent, of the fires occurring during July and August, and the majority of these during the period between July 12th and August 17th. An increase is shown in the percentage of fires extinguished while small, and a new high record of 75.93 per cent, put out under 10 acres reflects considerable credit on the fire-suppression organization. AA 32 Department of Lands. 1926 FlEES, 1926, CLASSIFIED BY SlZE AND DAMAGE. Total Fih.es. Under \ Acre. \ Acre to 10 Acres. Over 10 Acres in Extent. Damage. Forest District. H-5 H-g •HO gj h3 H'E h3 ri o rtiffi -uO ifl *sS- o| rt-Q o| o o a o s E a S c S3 c S a a P ? a b a O _i O m D re O m O m O « 6 d S.s d o b ■~ £ d -- £ •_ 33 33.i3 a 33 O 01 fr, Putt, fr, Afc, fc£ fr, C fe Pm6. ?. &.£ 3-3. P K.» O 166 121 175 7.73 5.63 8.15 54 60 50 32.63 49.52 28.50 5.88 6.63 5.44 40 18 79 24.10 14.90 45.20 5.62 2.53 11.11 72 43 46 43.37 35.58 26.30 13.92 8.32 8.90 119 86 153 30 14 14 17 21 Prince George 8 Prince Rupert 72 3.35 31 43.00 3.37 29 40.30 4.08 12 16.70 2.32 66 3 3 Southern Interior 1,159 53.99 496 43.00 53.97 383 33.00 53.87 280 24.0U 54.16 960 100 99 454 21.15 100.0 228 50.22 24.81 162 35.68 22.79 64 14.10 12.38 418 1,802 83.94 15 21 Totals 2,147 100.0 919 42.81 100.0 711 33.12 100.0 517 24.07 100.0 176 8.19 169 7.87 Totals, 1925 2,521 100.0 1,036 100.0 732 100.0 753 100.0 2,001 277 243 100.0 41.10 29.04 29.86 79.37 1,823 10.99 9.64 Totals, 1924 2,174 100.0 767 100.0 782 100.0 625 100.0 259 92 100.0 35.28 35.97 28.75 —- 83.84 11.92 4.24 Dominion Railway Belt Number and Causes of Fires in Province, 1926. a ri ^ oi 0) tao 0 a ri 0 a Forest District. ti ri to m Qt O a_o a '33 t33 ri 2 c & O "3 >, __! i So ,-, a °'_; 03 0 SS ri 4J 0 rt'?'1' a 1 a a CS t. OH 333 . :a a a o Sffi " G ri O PhC O ■SaS'S Z 33 ti Z 03V a co 15 9 3tS O -= p a___ l§ B.S ■a) 0 C rttf a ri O H a, 0 ^ 20 73 42 12 1 10 9 7 1 1 1 45 1 3 29 8 166 121 7.73 Kamloops 5.63 34 45 7 22 30 2 8 9 2 16 175 8.15 Prince Rupert 9 26 6 4 13 2 5 1 6 72 3.35 395 26 140 86 328 24 130 66 54 36 5 3 10 80 10 2 67 54 20 77 1,159 454 53.99 21.15 Totals 557 351 376 238 157 14 104 68 126 156 2,147 100.0 25.95 16.35 17.51 11.09 7.31 0.65 4.81 3.16 5.87 7.26 100.0 17 Geo. 5 Forest Branch. AA 33 o O SO oi •saEnoQ ■joaMHHi D * •aouiAoacj u; saiijj ^uiqil-gg m quads \vio£ jo vn»o jaj C. ■* !-l O r O ■ O ■ O 8:8:8 •WBiioa O cd oi •* t(5 t-1 oi tQ " « | fN '000'0I$ J3A0 qSOQ "OOO'OIS' "000 5* oi 000*T£ ^oq 000'IS o^ OOIg ^soo ■oots imp SS9[ ^..OQ ■aouiAOJd ui saji^ luqox" jo ^-K.0 aa«j ■rtOOOO^id ■qOUqSTQ UI S9JIt»T I-.qox jo'-qua'o aaj N O, C5 <M M ' ■^i CO OO CM O ~* 00 CO O ■] •aoutAOjj ui sa_n.ii [■E^OX JO '1U9Q J^d 5.59 3.82 4.14 2.28 30.51 14.58 » : © : CO 00 - o ■ 35 •-(ouisiq ui saai^j CO O O O O Ol C-i CO r-i tO t~- CO r— to m to m co "ON o <n cr: cs »n co « X co ■* -x: h r-t CD CO 00 O. O Ci r-< 50 Si —i ■<# rH CD qou sputrj uo paqtmiiiuo CO c-i °loi » J 1 »-tU3 SlJI^TBd SpU^I PUT! SpU^T ua\ojq quiso-GA uo pa^BmSuo ~,H -O 'SWM r^oi ■* o <M ,__; .i o • rt V ^ ___ V eg « t- J-. o .^ O W ^ a.«_ f> AA 34 Department of Ljlnds. 1926 Fibe Occueeences By Months, 1926. District. March. April. May. June. July. August. September. Totals. .2 2 7 6 26 12 127 26 21 14 26 6 80 16 17 9 7 11 155 56 60 54 48 15 623 182 50 36 47 20 156 105 414 11 2 21 8 16 67 125 166 121 175 72 1,159 454 Total 4 0.18 204 163 7.59 255 982 2,147 9.50 11.88 45.75 19.28 5.82 100 0 FIRE DAMAGE. The total .area burned over is estimated at 659,871 acres, as compared with 1,023,789 acres last year, or, roughly, two-thirds. Of the area burned, 58.81 per cent, is in the Southern Interior and only 9.08 per cent, on the Coast. Merchantable timber destroyed is estimated at 229,449 M. feet, board measure, valued at $443,009, as compared with 773,738 M. feet, board measure, valued at $1,223,197, in 1925. Valuable reproduction destroyed amounted to 198,224 acres, as compared with 251,897 acres in 1925. Damage to property of other forms than timber amounted to $749,891, as compared with $625,519 in 1925. The total value of all forms of property destroyed is $1,6S0,264, as against $2,747,190 in 1925, or, roughly, 60 per cent. This is also a reflection of the greater care taken by Coast logging operators to suspend operations during dangerous periods, showing a faUing-ofl! of $441,777 in total damage done in the Vancouver District over the 1925 figures. 17 Geo. 5 Forest Branch. AA 35 o fa ■<! a H gllg J°a£ ■Jggg ISO? PS .a d 3 M e » 2 -a h pa o 0) be eg Q P Per Cent. 8.95 18.70 5.00 0.47 66.31 10.57 o d o o o o o o o 1 83,265 174,042 46,552 4,369 523,852 98,293 930,373 2,121,672 100.0 665,078 100.0 >_ g ci Per Cent. 7.43 29.35 7.31 0.28 26.16 29.47 o o o o o o o o M. Feet B.M. 29,663 117,011 29,158 1,131 104,259 117,472 398,694 1,057,702 100.0 207,651 100.0 31 rti <! Per Cent. 9.06 19.69 2.19 1.17 58.81 9.08 o o o o o o o o Acres. 59,781 129,957 14,442 7,740 388,020 59,931 CO o CO ■-. c 00 erf Ol ^ o H, O ■Si e 9 "justu o? WJ I CO •psiunq ■B9JV m m tT» rp-«-> Cl ■9.3tJun.Q NinCJ-tMirt r-i Ol ^ «# O CD i-H Cl ih rH r-i tO CO CO CD iH Oi rH iH Ol m 20,666 15,574 2,851 1,426 104,057 18,509 CC CO ©_ : CO '"H CD -H X CO (N - I-H M CD *"H OJ C-l CO i m co ■ CO ■ - •paHR _£^u$n£) £21 pica . Ol CJ CD ■Oi ■ cc "cv O I-- CD •*# QU ■ a™ ■* HI Ol ri „'CO cot-- | • Ol CD 1 • CO ■ I "BdaV" 41,332 31,148 5,703 2,851 208,115 37,018 t- Ol co co OI ""* CO Ol IQ B" O ■o_ - m O Ol 1 ■ CO ■* • 00 ■ • s s 1 : ■■aiftjureQ m o co -rt> co oi 1- TC Ij- co —I co GO CO <M C-l 00 CO _C i- tr. I.-. ... rjo _r — :d ■ ■.-.• -__. X s: N « io ao O m* CD co' i-h" co" -*_"" ■ssori aSediunis 44,317 111,078 36,414 655 190,136 60,409 CO rH O CO © • 3 BE ri Ol Ol O Ci gci ■aiquAj-BS ^|!f_mn__ M. Ft. B.M. 4,576 2 5(1 23,150 81,607 in CQ CO rrt CO • © O CO 1^ CN t- ■ » en cd CO CO rt. M. Ft. B.M. 29,663 107,219 29,158 1,129 104,259 117,406 388,834 97.53 1,024,508 96.86 206,253 99.33 •138JV Acres. 4,533 21,134 138 27,815 6,246 ,* rji in -t, tfl ■ r-T03 ro Oi rH CO ■ m o 0-1 _a -a * ;g-of DMo.fi. m'r- AA 36 Department of Lands. 1926 Damage to Pbopeety other than Forests, 1926. Forest District. Products in Process of Manufacture. Buildings. Railway and Logging Equipment. Miscellaneous. Total. Per Cent. of Total. Kamloops Prince Rupert $ 75 302 2 20.457 96,345 $ 660 5,100 1,100 22,255 214,100 * 200 750 4,102 48,360 268,350 $20,117 4,005 6,147 1,663 22,587 13,214 $ 20,777 9,380 8,299 5,767 113,669 592,009 2.77 1.25 1.11 0.77 15.14 78.96 Totals 1117,181 S243.215 $321,762 $67,733 $749,891 100.00 Comparison op Damage caused by Forest Fires in the Last Ten Years. 1919. Total number of fires Area burned (acres) Standing timber destroyed or damaged (M. ft. B.M.).... Amount salvable (M. ft. B.M.) Damage to forests Damage to other forms of property Total damage 2,147 659,871 398,694 109,385 930,373 749,891 $1,680,264 2,621 1,023,789 1,024,508 350,770 $2,121,672 625,518 $2,747,190 2,174 402,214 207,651 102,832 665,078 540,291 1,530 157,601 87,371 37,891 ! 74,238 617,649 $1,205,369 $.691,88: 2,591 1,568,585 729,941 117,006 $1,531,300 693,016 1,330 145,838 68,476 39,553 $ 97,332 195,221 1,251 389,846 229,253 49,575 $485,96:-' 473,900 1,141 433,797 287,520 93,559 $393,183 345,78 910 140,085 42,886 22,387 I 25,930 200,335 986 237,289 267,186 48,133 $129,125 162,333 $2,224,316 $292,553 $738,970 i,265 $291,457 FIRE-FIGHTING EXPENDITURES. Fire-fighting expenses incurred by the Department showed a falling-off from the high figure, $616,940, of 1925 by over §100,000. The expenditure by the Department was $504,234.46 and by private concerns $133,254.65, which was nearly the same as last year. The only district to show an increase over 1925 was the Southern Interior; 81.39 per cent, of the total expenditure was incurred in that district. This was due to the large number of lightning-fires occurring at one time over a large territory, making it impossible to get fire-fighting crews organized on some of them until they had assumed large proportions, with resulting high cost of control. Of the total number of fires, 60.92 per cent, were extinguished without cost to the Department, and a further 22.37 per cent, at a cost of less than $100 each. Only 5.44 per cent, cost more than $1,000 each to extinguish. FIRE CAUSES. Lightning, as has been the case for the past five years, holds first place as the most prolific cause of fires. Human-hazard fires number 1,590, as compared with 1,705, the average for the past five years, and 1,867 for 1924, a year of comparative intensity so far as number of fires is concerned. This is very encouraging in view of the increase in tourist-travel and number of people going into the woods. Last year, for example, there was a real revival in prospecting in some parts of the Province. Industrial operations are only charged with 104 fires, as compared with 137 in 1925, reflecting a greater care in the woods by those in charge of such operations, and particularly, it is believed, to the plan of working an early shift and closing down during the dry and hazardous afternoons. Railways were responsible for 376 fires, as compared with 337 during 1925. The greatest increase was in the Southern Interior, where there were 110 more railway fires this year than last. Campers and smokers showed a further decrease from the figures of previous years, there being only 589 fires assigned to this cause, as compared with 712 in 1925 and 690 in 1924. This undoubtedly shows that efforts toward public education on this subject are having a favourable result. 17 Geo. 5 Forest Branch. AA 37 H a s tc W B H P3 O s a o fa P < O a m a rr 00 Oi h_>co-*,h -o ci o m ci -* eO IO O • O 00 rH t- Cl HHrl ■ rH Cl o Oi ci Cl IOOCOC1 -t-iOOlHOffl rH rH ■* Cl -OS Cl Cl Tf* US P-tCO rH • rH rn rH s o CM Ci rH -rji CD t~- rH ■ CON-* NOS IO © •# Cl -Oi OCOCOCO CO Cl CN ■ ri ri m °1 Cl Ci -* 00 CO (M .ffloao^-* CD O 00 • CO C-l r-i -* CD O ri CO Cl ■ rH H <N o CO CO ©5 Oi cocooi ■ .incieo-Oicico *# ci co • • m ci o co o co ■ci co co ■ -co ci ci in lO cf CO CI cs -*ClCi -OHUMOiOHM t- co cs ■ co m r-it- c^ l- t> 51NH 'Hp- ri ri o cj Oi r-cioo ■ N M Q H iq N l> O00C1 'CHMhOM CO CO CO ■ CO (M rH i-h t- Cl ■* t- Cl" in Cl Oi fN CO C- ■ CD M "* N M O 1" CO O* CO -OOOrH-^iOmCO CO ■■■■-* CO -(MCI iHrHrHCl Cl m CD Cl Ci r-rHCD ■Mh.H-*OOOCD __iot- -coinrHOCDciio lO CO CO ■ CN rH rH rH rH -* cf too S = ?a 5-a ° « s ~ C 31 B 33 P. % -= grt p CJ 33 £ S Sas -a 0 Q 03 OJ i ■quujsd cjnoq^Lu |as S9Jitj ^ -^ • ci ih r- oo fc j =°o o COO qoj^uoo padrt.ns9 S3Ji^ ^ Cl i-H -tf Ol Cl o S3 " "" 00 o o rv°- °8 U8ao paiunq ^aay Acres. 2,447 478 2,730 4,853 2,566 14,158 27,232 100.0 CO o co _; «>8 00 rH CO •pgnssi sqiiiuaj No. 568 344 1,076 1,135 921 3,488 ■Cl O .rt. HO "„8 Oi ri •^tuuaj ^noq^)iA\^9s sajTjj 6 CT : : : : : fc : ■ : : : ci m Cl CO CO CO o m "loa^uoQ padsosa S9.ii.tf fc : : : : m Cl CD CD CD m ■J9A0 paiunq i^ay S "* O H.H CO "* CO 2 iCHHOONia C1Q0 r-f. . O 00 CO O 'pgnssi s^iuua,! • CO Cl CO CO I- CO O rH HHC1-* fc a oo i-h m CO rH O rH rH ■}UU J8_l ^UOtflTAV ^3S Sdl\j{ d : : :u<* : fr, : : : : CO CO eo CO X o m loj-^uoo padi30S9 ssjiiji d \ri -tftca . fc : : : CD 03 CO -■■■* •joao paiunq uajy Acres. 1 42 1 477 287 1,200 2,008 7.37 1,578 4.08 •paussi s .luija,! _: H Cb CO !M ,C O o O O CD 00 O ,.,H OiO rH ■^itiugj qnoq^TM cjgs saaij fc ..... iH Cl r-i ClOl CO CO •(oactuoQ pad-iosg saai^ 6 : : : :=* : fc ; : : : : eo m 00 CO CO CD CD m •J9A0 pauanq rtjoay Acres. 384 28 33 4 394 8,876 9,719 35.(59 17,G79 45.64 ■p9USSl S^imj9(J -; rH Ci m CO _n 00 « OlHH -* CO fc rH O rH CO Cl ■ ■Cl co m t- Oi Cl ■ pi a <1 < *^ttui9j qnoq^iM ^9S sajij; d fc C-l • Cl • «S i> Ol C3 00 iH m CO 00 qoj^uo^ pgdijosa ssai^ d fc ci ■ -*< j> in ci . rH CO t^O cd at m CO Ol CD 00 Ol CO CO *a9AO pguanq-esay 0J o 2,008 398 2,682 4,189 1,711 4,026 -*• eo m ■« CO 00 CO Hrt! ""loi Ol •* •panssi s^iuiagj; d fc 463 314 1,042 1,107 824 3,392 C-l Cl i~oi 00 CO m oi *^ 00 Ol : &a (5 £ > ° o ^i S oooo^g 5 1.S .9 B S ca « c s- o rf OWfc&H(rt0t> ■a s Cl Ol - c "3 ° o -u AA 38 Department op Lands. 1926 FIRE-PREVENTION. Continuing the policy of using every possible means to bring the necessity for care with fire before the public, an extensive publicity programme was carried out (luring the season. The whole of Canada and the United States entered into " Save the Forest Week " in a concerted drive to arouse the fire conscience of the people. This year in British Columbia publicity during the " week " was directed largely by local committees chosen from the outstanding men in the Province who were interested in the general forest-protection movement and who were willing to divert part of their time and endeavour to planning and carrying out the campaign. Addresses were given by His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor and several prominent persons, as well as by practically every man in the Forest Service. The radio broadcasting stations of the Daily Province and the Canadian National Railway, Vancouver, were used for a time each evening of the " week " to spread the forest-protection message. Large quantities of printed matter were distributed, lectures were given at schools, Churches, service clubs, Boy 'Scout Associations, and, in fact, wherever a group of persons could be reached. The school lecture programme was continued throughout the season as opportunity offered and was stressed by the Canadian Forestry Association in co-operation with the Forest Branch. The travelling lecture party of the association covered many communities on Vancouver Island and the Mainland, giving motion-picture illustrations of the forest-fire problem.. The industry in several localities contributed full-page illustrated advertisements bearing on this subject. The usual newspaper and periodica] advertising of the Branch was carried throughout the Province during the three hazardous months. Fair prize-lists, time-tables of bus lines, directories, etc., were invaded to carry the message to every available reader. A special folder, " Our Debt to Wood," was distributed at schools and exhibitions. A four-panel poster in colours was gotten out for display in hotels, restaurants, and other inside public places. The booklet " Camping and Hiking " was reprinted, with base maps showing the main highways of the Province, and was widely distributed. The demand for copies of this book indicate that it is being used by a large number of people. Several thousand book-marks, with a short protection message, were issued to the school-children. A miniature forest scene was built at the Victoria Home Products Fair and the attendants preached forest- protection and distributed printed appeals for care with fire in the forests, and a more pretentious display was shown at the Vancouver Exhibition through the collaboration of the Canadian Forestry Association, the Vancouver Hoo-Hoo Club, and the Forest Branch. This was visited by many thousands of people and attracted much attention. Several of the smaller fall fairs were utilized, through the medium of prepared forest scenes, to draw attention to the part forest products play in the industrial activity of the Province. FIRE-LAW ENFORCEMENT. Two special law-enforcement officers were detailed by the Provincial Police to give their entire attention to the investigation of fires of suspicious origin and to the prosecution of offenders for breaches of the provisions of the fire-prevention part of the " Forest Act." It is believed that the employment of these men and the policy of stringent law enforcement has been a decided factor in reducing the number of fires set without permit. This year there were thirty-two such fires. Figures the last few years are: 1920, 38; 1921, 101; 1922, 144; 1923, 49; 1924, 48; 1925, 59. There were twenty less prosecutions in 1926 than last year. The general public, through the more rigid enforcement by specially assigned men last year, would seem to have become imbued with a more healthy respect for the fire law. 17 Geo. 5 Forest Branch. AA 39 Prosecutions TOR Fire Trespass, 1926. ol rn G CD £ <y Finks. C3 T3 <M ° o fe *l M 0 cmEk 0: 43 fe ■QJ tG £ .5" G 01 id CJ 1 -5 a" Forest District. 3 a o C3 a Cfe O-H ■ ~ o o«_ •43 0 G 00 1) C_ ■£ O G m <u 01 H bCOn H-j G 00 la OJ rH M 0 A '^ -C . .5-rt ft QJ O CU 5 ft d 3 O c P tfi O a No. Amount. G 5 m T3 01 m CJ C QJ be S G V ft .G o c'-g^ Is 1 &.G c'fi^ •— E &« G > Ph 0J QJ B a c 0^~ Ox< Q«<3 0 p OOJ<! tea, fe j^ M % 80 00 «_ 1 CO 0 O U 4 4 3 1 1 1 25 00 Prince George . 3 i 2 3 125 00 Prince Rupert. 3 1 1 1 2 50 00 1 South. Interior. 14 2 2 / 11 331 00 3 24 2 1 3 1 1 11 1 2 2 22 600 00 2 Totals 49 97 2 1 3 1 8 20 1 6 5 10 42 $1,191 00 Si,960 00 4 5 11 3 17 1 Totals, 1925. 8 45 2 14 24 62 1 Note.—Southern Interior: Also two convictions for theft of Forest Branch property. HAZARD REDUCTION. The slash areas of the Province were reduced this year by burning over a total of 62,041 acres. Intentional slash fires by logging operators, in most cases supervised by Forest Branch officers, and set after the close season, disposed of a total of 5,577 acres. During the close season permits were issued to cover the burning of 27,232 acres of slash, of which 9,719 acres consisted of new logging-slash, while accidental fires burned over a further area of 29,232 acres of old and new slash. A total of 7,532 permits to burn were issued during the close season. Of the fires set under these permits, only 78 escaped control, or approximately 1 for each 100 fires. This is the best showing since 1921, when less than one-half of 1 per cent, escaped control. ■ In most parts of the Province, through the favourable attitude of the District Engineers, road-slash has been to a large extent cleaned up, and wherever possible new road-slash is being disposed of concurrently with the right-of-way clearing. Railway right-of-way clearing has been receiving careful attention from the several road- masters, and in general the condition of the railways is satisfactory throughout the Province. The exclusive use of oil-fuel by the Canadian National Railway on the line from Prince Rupert to Alberta has shown immediate results in a decreased number of railway fires in that territory. FIRE-DETECTION. The programme of lookout construction, begun some three years ago, has been continued and new permanent lookouts were constructed at Sonora Island, on the Coast; Mount Baldy, to serve the Inkaneep and Kettle River Forests; and Moyie Mountain, in the Yahk Forest. The old buildings on Little White Mountain, B.X. Mountain, and Casey Mountain were replaced by standard lookout structures. A site for a lookout to serve the Nehalliston Forest was chosen, trail and telephone-line built and used with temporary quarters for part of the past season. The permanent lookouts now number ten in all, located as follows:— Vancouver Forest District -•- 2 Cariboo Forest District 1 Southern Interior District 7 Total 10 In addition to these, several secondary lookouts were established and tried out for the season, as follows:— Prince Rupert 1 Cariboo 2 Kamloops 1 Southern Interior 4 Total 8 AA 40 Department op Lands. 1926 MECHANICAL TRANSPORT AND FIRE-FIGHTING EQUIPMENT. Portable fire-pumps were operated, in connection with fire-suppression, a total of 3,857 hours. The usefulness of these units is increased in direct ratio to their portability and the volume of water delivered, and for that reason the replacement of the heavier units, as they lose their efficiency, with more portable units is being continued. Twenty-three new pumps were purchased during the season. The total number of portable pumps on hand in the several districts is 108. In addition, there are twenty launches equipped with pumps fitted to run from the launch engine. Launches. Year. Number of Units. Total Miles run. Average Miles per Unit. Total Cost. Average Cost per Mile. 1926 42 43 43 40 158,993 167,478 119,703 106,500 3,785 3,894 2,784 2,662 $16,275 21,376 16,094 19,493 $0,102 1925 .127 1924 .134 1923 .183 Motor-oars. 1926 1925 1924 1923 79 74 59 52 593,642 508,158 327,495 275,000 7,512 6,866 5,551 5,288 $29,123 24,215 14,105 13,100 $0,054 .047 .043 .047 Railway Speeders. 1926 1926 1924 1923 17 15 16 15 42,207 43,300 45,096 38,500 2,482 2,287 2,856 2,566 $ 994 1,535 1,149 1,614 $0,023 .035 .025 .041 Does not include capital cost or depreciation. EQUIPMENT, IMPROVEMENTS, AND MAINTENANCE. Cariboo. Equipment— Two Ford cars $ 1,288 OO One Star car 957 OO Fire-fighting tools, etc 704 00 Launch " Mountain Ash " 2,627 00 Total $ 5,516 00 Improvements— Mouse Mountain Lookout $ 25 00 Maintenance— Canin Lake Boat-house $ 15 00 Quesnel Lake Boat-house 374 00 Lac la Hache Camp-site 63 00 Cottonwood Camp-site 57 00 Hanceville Ranger Station 357 00 Kelly Lake Camp-site 16 OO Pavilion Camp-site 16 00 Horsefly Lake Camp-site 17 00 Mount Begbie Lookout Trail 12 00 Carried forward $ 927 00 17 Geo. o Forest Branch. AA 41 Cariboo—Continued. Brought forward $ 927 00 Maintenance—Continued. Alexandria Lookout and Trail 44 00 Goose Lake Trail 20 00 Blackwater Ranger Station 16 00 Bear Lake Ranger Station Cabin 28 00 Horsefly River Trail 12 00 McKinley River Trail 36 00 Archie Creek Forks Trail 12 00 Swamp Cabin-Elbow Lake Trail 28 00 Crooked River Trail 12 00 Big Slide Mountain Trail 26 00 Elbow Lake-Cruiser Lake Trail 28 00 Bear Lake-Canoe Trail 13 00 Miscellaneous 36 00 Total $ 1,238 00 Kamloops. Equipment— One Star car $ 915 00 Three fire-fighting pumps 905 00 One 16-foot boat 31 00 Hose for fire-fighting pumps 134 00 Fire-fighting tools 491 00 Total $ 2,476 00 Improvements— Blue River Ranger Station House , $ 2,159 00 Birch Island Telephone Line 132 00 Garnet Mountain Lookout Trail 141 00 Horseshoe Ranger Station Cabin 141 00 Louis Creek Camp-site 158 OO McLure Cut-off Trail 376 00 Baldy Mountain Lookout Telephone Line 47 00 Baldy Mountain Trail /. 137 00 Larky Lake Ranger Station Cabin 439 00 Clearwater-Mahood Lake Trail 1,016 00 Total $ 4,746 00 Maintenance— Barriere-Adams Lake Trail $ 45 00 Vavenby-Adams River Trail 72 OO Adams Lake-Seymour Arm Trail 22 00 Launch "Aspen" 156 00 Clearwater-Blue River Trail 78 OO Main Seymour River Trail 37 00 Adams River Wagon-road 351 00 Upper Thompson River Trail 48 OO Blue River Ranger Station Cabin 76 00 Little Clearwater Ranger Station Cabin 88 00 Grizzly Mountain Lookout Trail 60 00 North Barriere Lake Boat-house 55 00 Carried forward $ 1,088 00 AA 42 Department of Lands. 1926 Kamloops—Continued. Brought forward $ 1,088 OO Maintenance—Continued. Clearwater Camp-site 32 CO Avola Ranger Station Cabin 78 00 Main Clearwater River Trail : 42 OO Blucher Hall Lookout Trail 28 OO Fishtrap Trail 431 OO Peterson Creek Trail , 62 00 Parky Lake-Allan Lake Trail 69 00 Allan Lake-Hoover Lake Trail 53 OO Miscellaneous 225 00 Total $ 2,098 00 Prince George. Equipment— Twelve hand-pumps % 147 00 Two fire-fighting pumps 093 00 Fire-fighting hose 481 00 Outboard motor 167 OO Rowboat 50 00 Fire-fighting tools 650 OO Total $ 2,188 00 Improvements—■ Tool-caches % 26 00 Fort St. James Ranger Station 89 00 Tsinkut Mountain Lookout 84 OO Launch " Tachi II." 2,890 00 Total $ 3,0S9 00 Maintenance—• Willow River Trail % 138 00 Beaver River Trail 64 00 Miscellaneous 19 00 Total % 221 00 Prince Rupert. Equipment— Launch" " Alpine Fir " $ 7,500 00 Ford car 609 00 Outboard motor 178 00 Six hand-pumps 73 00 Total .: ? 8,360 00 Improvements— Hazelton Garage $ 175 OO Brick chimney, Hazelton Office SO 00 Lake Kathlyn Camp-site 105 OO Total $ 360 00 17 Geo. 5 Forest Branch. AA 43 Prince Rupert—Continued. Maintenance—• Repairs, Launch " Lillian D." $ 600 00 Repairs, Launch "Einbree" 280 00 Repairs, Launch "Red Cedar" ,.... 245 00 Lakelse Telephone Line 86 00 Total $ 1,211 00 Southern Interior. Equipment— Fire-fighting tools $ 9,215 00 Fourteen Ford cars 8,870 00 One Star car 874 00 Ten fire-fighting pumps 3,360 00 Two power-speeders (second-hand) 50 00 Launch "White Pine" 2,626 00 Launch "Alba" (new hull) 2S7 00 Trout Lake Boat and Outboard Motor 257 00 Fire-fighting hose .: 2,246 OO Total $27,785 00 Improvements— 102 miles Trail $ 7,605 00 B.X. Lookout 1,71S 00 Casey Mountain Lookout 1,674 00 Little White Mountain Lookout 1,617 00 Moyie Mountain Lookout 1,680 00 Baldy Mountain Lookout 1,539 OO Saddle Mountain Lookout 94 00 Reno Mountain Lookout 217 00 Toad Mountain Lookout 231 OO Gold Creek Telephone Line 1,355 00 Phoenix-Greenwood Telephone Line 250 00 Waldo Pasture Fence 527 00 Flathead Ranger Station Cabin 300 00 Ellis Creek Cabin 196 00 Johnson Creek Camp-site 67 00 Boulder Creek Camp-site 65 00 Sheep Creek Camp-site 89 00 Deep Creek Camp-site 40 OO South Fork Camp-site 113 00 Total $19,383 00 Maintenance— 318 miles trail repaired .$ 2,S75 00 Little White Mountain Telephone Line 160 00 B.X. Telephone Line 22 OO Casey Mountain Telephone Line 58 OO Duncan River Telephone Line 131 OO North Fork of Kettle River Telephone Line 92 00 Little Slocan and West Fork Telephone Line 98 00 Saddle Mountain Telephone Line 275 00 Elk Valley Telephone Line 306 00 Cedar Valley Telephone Line 13 00 Erie-Green City Telephone Line 30 00 Carried forward $ 4,060 00 AA 44 Department op Lands. 1926 Southern Interior—Continued. Brought forward $ 4,060 00 Maintenance—Continued. Elk Valley Ranger Station Cabin 51 00 Stanley Park Camp-site 41 00 Morrissey Road Camp-site 22 00 Elk Valley Road 31 00 Cedar Valley Road 63 00 Flathead Road 93 OO Phoenix Lookout 24 00 Cedar Valley Pasture 22 00 Miscellaneous 63 00 Total $ 4,470 00 Vancouver. Equipment— One outboard motor ? 186 00 One rowboat 125 00 Eight fire-fighting pumps 2,901 00 One gear fire-fighting pump 07 00 Twenty-five hand-pumps 392 00 Two portable telephone sets 100 00 Fire-fighting hose 217 00 Fire-fighting equipment and tools 2,296 00 Total $ 6,284 00 Improvements— Sonora Mountain Lookout $ 1,620 00 Launch " Sonora " 2,388 00 Lake Cowichan Trail 709 00 Lake Cowichan Boat-house 42 00 Septic tank, Myrtle Point 97 00 Myrtle Point Telephone Line 179 00 Nobyrno Experiment 117 OO Mount Benson Lookout 9 00 Ways and dam, Thurston Bay 196 00 Cribbing, Thurston Bay 61 00 Plant improvements, Thurston Bay 405 00 Painting and repairing houses, Thurston Bay 359 00 Total $ 6,182 00 Maintenance— Myrtle Point Ranger Station $ 23 00 Myrtle Point Telephone Line 18 00 Sonora Mountain Lookout 92 00 Myrtle Point Lookout 24 OO Mount Benson Lookout 26 00 Miscellaneous 16 00 Total $ 199 00 17 Geo. 5 Forest Branch. AA 45 GRAZING. Range and Live-stock Conditions. The season of 1926 was a " dry one," particularly throughout the Southern Interior District. Exceptionally dry conditions with high winds prevailed throughout the midsummer period. This, following the most open winter, with its very light snowfall, experienced for many years, caused the early maturing and drying-up of secondary vegetation on the lower and heavily-grazed ranges. This dry condition was largely counterbalanced by the more early maturing of.the feed throughout the timbered areas. Cattle which under normal conditions persist in congregating on the open ranges were forced, because of the total drying-up of all forage on the open areas, to graze entirely during midsummer on the timbered ranges. In consequence, their general condition was much better this year than during recent seasons, proving the contention of the Department that the timbered ranges furnish the best feed for midsummer use. Authorization. The number of live sock authorized to graze on the Crown ranges of the various grazing districts for the year April 1st, 1926, to March 31st, 1927, is as follows: Cattle and horses, 60,000; sheep, 20,000. Beef and Lamb Prices. Tbe price of beef cattle on the hoof was higher during the 1926 season than during the past several years. Lamb prices on the hoof have ranged from 10 to 13 cents per pound, depending on quality and demand. Prices for well-conditioned beef and mutton will continue to be satisfactory and the range live-stock industry will be a profitable one if more attention is given to the care of tbe live stock on both ranch and range. Hay-crops. The hay-crops were generally short, especially throughout the Southern Interior. The Cariboo District, however, north of the 52nd parallel was very fortunate. Although the snowfall of the winter of 1925-26 was so light that cars were operated all winter, very heavy rains occurred during December, 1925, filling all water-holes and reservoirs. There was ample water for irrigation, with fairly good crops resulting, and adequate supplies of hay are available for all live stock. If weather conditions are not too severe throughout the Southern Interior this winter the stockmen will pull through, but supplies will be very short at the opening of the grazing season. Range Improvement. At the date of the last Annual Grazing Report, February 1st, 1926, there was on hand a credit balance of $629.21 in the Range Improvement Fund. On April 1st there was available for further work during the fiscal year 1926 $5,9S7.18, of which $5,270.56 has been expended in stock-trails, mud-hole fencing, drift-fences to facilitate handling of herds, etc., leaving a balance on hand at date of $716.62. The 105 bad mud holes discovered and now fenced are closely estimated to have each taken a toll of about ten head of cattle and horses annually. This represents approximately $50,000 annually saved to the live-stock industry of the Provincial ranges. The use of the controlling-fences on tbe ranges, under which the breeding herds are being assembled during the early part of each breeding season, is showing value in increased calf-crops. Heretofore on those ranges great loss in service from expensive bulls was incurred through the scattered grazing of the herd during the breeding season. The improvement of drinking-places is also showing results in tbe better distribution of the cattle on the ranges. All of these improvements, as well as others, would give the fullest value and be great aids to success in the range live-stock industry if the stockmen would take advantage of the better opportunity now presented to use the Crown ranges and handle their herds to protect the lower or early ranges from premature as well as over-grazing, and to use more of the timbered ranges, which provide the best feed for the cow raising the growing calf as well as for the growing beef during the midsummer months. AA 46 Department of Lands. 1926 Reseeding Ranges. The experimental reseedings to cultivated grasses of burned-over areas in the Cariboo and Southern Interior Districts may be said to be failures. On the unfenced areas both the heavy grazing by live stock and the crowding-out by native vegetation has practically destroyed the cultivated species. On the fenced areas completely protected from grazing the native vegetation has also crowded out the cultivated species. Some form of soil-cultivation would be necessary if the cultivated species are to survive, and in order to prevent over-grazing by live stock, attracted by the high palatability of the cultivated species, large areas would have to be sown. Both would be expensive and are not warranted. With reasonable care in handling the live stock, over-grazed areas can be'restored, and, furthermore, it is not necessary to sow cultivated species in an attempt to improve timbered ranges, as they are now, as a rule, furnishing ten times as much forage as is being consumed. Grasshopper-control. The grasshopper-control campaign was continued on the Nicola ranges during the 1926 season by the Douglas Lake Cattle Company, the Guichon Ranch, the Nicola Stock Farms, and the S.X. Ranch, with poison supplied by the Government. Poisoning extended over the greater part of the season and inspections at the close of the work indicate that the plague is now under control on tbe Nicola ranges. There were outbreaks on the Cariboo ranges at 105-Mile, Lac la Hache, Alexandria, and Riske Creek. Effective poisoning was carried out at these places. It is not likely further damaging outbreaks will occur there with present effective methods of control. At Riske Creek Mr. Jas. Stewart, on the River Ranch, accomplished good results, and, in view of a possible extensive outbreak on the Riske Creek prairie in 1927, materials for 20 tons of poison bait have been assembled at Riske Creek and arrangements made with the Riske Creek Stock-breeders' .Association for co-operative poisoning-work. Wild Horses. Following the removal of 1,950 head of wild horses from the ranges west of the Fraser River in 1925, a clean-up campaign was conducted over the same ranges in 1926, when 249 head, mostly stallions, were destroyed. They were the leaders of bands and had escaped in 1925. The result of this work is seen to-day in the general improved condition of the spring and fall ranges. Work was also commenced during 1926 in the Cranbrook District, but, after it was well started, the representative live-stock association of the district requested a stay in the work as there was a prospect of a market for the horses developing. Prospective buyers were in the Province last year and left with promises to return. Large numbers of horses were under control ready for inspection, but the buyers did not again appear. Later, buyers from the Russian Government came to the Province during the busy season, but without advance notice to the Department. This was unfortunate, for about 1,000 good horses were awaiting inspection. There is a prospect that they will return in 1927 for more horses. Horsemen are being notified from this office regarding the type of horse wanted and are being requested to file at once an estimate of the number they will have available. Ottawa is being furnished this information and has promised to keep the Department informed of the development of the overseas market. A plant has been erected at Regina to prepare horse-meat for overseas shipment. It has a capacity of 35,000 carcasses and the company- has written for information regarding the number the Government can furnish for slaughter from British Columbia. It is expected that further work in removing wild stallions, cripples, and large numbers of old, worn-out, and useless horses from the ranges in many of the districts will be continued this winter. The above types of horses are all useless, the stallions being a great menace and the cripples and old horses generally suffer miserably during the winter months. Future Outlook. The range live-stock industry is looking brighter, and as the use of registered bulls and improvement in methods in caring for cattle on the range increases, the revenue from the herds will be higher. 17 Geo. 5 Forest Branch. AA 47 The cattlemen of the Province are considering the formation of a selling agency, the ultimate purpose of which is to increase profits to the stockmen through better marketing methods. Any such selling agency will depend for success upon :■— (1.) Absolute co-operation of individual and collective effort on the ranch and range. (2.) The use of pure-bred bulls on ranch and range to improve conformation and quality of beef. (3.) The careful culling of the breeding herd to eliminate poor-quality cows and non- breeders : (4.) Adequate winter feeding of cattle of all ages, especially the growing beef. (5.) Close attention to the breeding herd during calving and breeding seasons to save all calves and secure service from good bulls, thereby increasing the present low calf-crop. (6.) The grazing of the herd on good feed during the seasonal period each type should be grazed, and particularly the carrying of the beef on the best possible forage. (7.) Collective effort to arrange shipments to evenly distribute the annual beef output to market in an orderly manner. (8.) Good and efficient management by competent officials thoroughly acquainted with the business of co-operative marketing. The labour question on the range is an important one and it constitutes one of the serious problems of the cattle industry. The Annual Grazing Report has previously called attention to this, with particular reference to the care of the cattle on the open range. This is one of the gravest problems the stockman has to contend with, for the success of his business depends upon i eliable and intelligent help on the range. At present he is not getting this class of help, and in consequence his calf-crop suffers heavy loss through failure to have the good bulls properly distributed throughout the herd during the breeding season. Heavy loss in the growth of the beef is also occasioned through failure to keep the herd on the proper feed during each seasonal period of the grazing season. This is due to general neglect of the essentials in range-cattle management and to a lack of knowledge of forage, forage-type grazing capacity, and its seasonal use periods. The success of the business depends upon a knowledge of and attention to these things. A knowledge of the forage, its nutritive value, and how and when it should be grazed is most important. This all-round knowledge can only be gained through proper training, and it should be the function of agricultural colleges and universities to turn out the cowmen trained in veterinary science, as judges of good beef and how to raise and care for it; as experts in range forage, its values and methods of grazing it, with benefit to cattle and range. This initial training, combined with practical experience, will render available to the cattle industry the reliable, intelligent, and expert cowmen so badly needed if profitable management is to be expected out on the range. Expert knowledge is demanded in fencing and improving the ranch. Expert knowledge is applied to raising, caring for, and harvesting the hay-crop. Expert knowledge of irrigation is sought in bringing water to the crops. Then why not expert knowledge in managing the cattle and range, from which the main revenue is derived? A growing menace to the range-cattle industry is that of the annual " stampede " held in each hamlet of the range country. They accomplish nothing but confusion by unsettling labour on the ranch and range during the season when all important operations are going on. " Cowboys " are inclined to devote their energies to practising up for bucking and steer-riding contests instead of the care of the cattle herds they are hired to attend. If the " stampede " is to be held anywhere, let it be at large centres, where it will be on so extensive a scale that it will be truly an attraction rather than a baneful influence. victoria, B.C. : Printed by Ciiaeles F. Banfield, Printer to the King's Most Excellent Majesty. 1027. 1,825-227-6808
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PROVINCE OF BRITISH COLUMBIA REPORT OF THE FOREST BRANCH OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LANDS HON. T. D. PATTULLO,… British Columbia. Legislative Assembly [1927]
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Title | PROVINCE OF BRITISH COLUMBIA REPORT OF THE FOREST BRANCH OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LANDS HON. T. D. PATTULLO, Minister P. Z. CAVERHILL, Chief Forester FOR THE YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31ST 1926 |
Alternate Title | FOREST BRANCH. |
Creator |
British Columbia. Legislative Assembly |
Publisher | Victoria, BC : Government Printer |
Date Issued | [1927] |
Genre |
Legislative proceedings |
Type |
Text |
FileFormat | application/pdf |
Language | English |
Identifier | J110.L5 S7 1926_1927_V02_16_AA1_AA47 |
Collection |
Sessional Papers of the Province of British Columbia |
Source | Original Format: Legislative Assembly of British Columbia. Library. Sessional Papers of the Province of British Columbia |
Date Available | 2016-03-07 |
Provider | Vancouver : University of British Columbia Library |
Rights | Images provided for research and reference use only. For permission to publish, copy or otherwise distribute these images please contact the Legislative Library of British Columbia |
CatalogueRecord | http://resolve.library.ubc.ca/cgi-bin/catsearch?bid=1198198 |
DOI | 10.14288/1.0228024 |
AggregatedSourceRepository | CONTENTdm |
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