Stop the Logging in Brookside Creek Catchment!

Note: we are not fundraising, just seeking signatures for this petition. No need to make a donation toward this cause!

There is a proposed 24-hectare cut block scheduled to start summer 2026***, located at the end of Hartnell Road in the north BX area of Vernon BC . The impacted area (KV8RF) is along and over Brookside Creek. Forestry plans to clear a significant amount of very old cedar and fir trees along the steep Brookside Creek catchment area. It will be highly visible from the many communities in Vernon. 

Slopes along this creek could exceed more than 30%-40%, and the area is underlain by thick, muddy soils, which are prone to downslope movement (landslides) without the root anchoring provided by these large old growth trees. 

***See update March 26, 2026 on additional proposed resource extraction blocks in this area.

Who and what are impacted? What is at stake?

For some time, Forestry has been efficiently clear cutting a large plateau area on top of Vernon Hill with no public opposition. However, this is the first time that Forestry has proposed to log the steep slopes that are visible clearly by many communities of Vernon. Once logged, the area will be a particular eye sore to anyone in Vernon. 

The area of the proposed cut block contains numerous trails that wind along Brookside Creek and is peppered with large cedars and firs. These trails are frequented all year long by walkers and hikers, skiers, mountain bikers, and motor sport enthusiasts. This cut block will negatively impact those who walk or recreate in this area.

More significantly, slope destabilization due to deforestation will impact those living alongside Brookside Creek, namely residents of Hartnell Road. Large tree removal will increase sediment outflow which will clog Brookside Creek and promote flooding of adjacent properties and roadways. 

Additionally, the area of the proposed cut block is a watershed. As such, the aquifer-based water sources of numerous properties directly below the cut block are at risk. If the trees in this watershed area are removed, water from spring thaw will run off down the slope rather than progress underground in the aquifers, meaning homeowner wells serviced by these aquifers may go dry.

Why is now the time to act?

Forestry requires feedback on the proposed cut block by May 31. If we do not send a strong and clear message that this cut block is NOT supported by the surrounding community, this proposed project will proceed.

We are asking the Vernon and area community to sign this petition in order to voice their concerns and help stop the project.