ABSTRACT: Assessment of Forest Karst Resources of Haida Gwaii: A Strategic Overview.

CGRG Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology
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This publication is about karst. Mention the word “karst”, and many peopleimmediately think of caves. In fact, there is a common perception that karst is only valuable in its potential to host caves. Such a perception can only be based on a lack of information. Unfamiliar karst terminology can be intimidating, and many karst texts are written for highly specialized audiences. Nevertheless, while the linkages between the various components of karst systems can be complex, the basic notions of what karst is, how it functions, and its many values are relatively straightforward. Karst is a distinctive type of soluble rock landscape with closely interconnected surface and subsurface components. It is most accurately conceptualized, and most effectively managed, as a unique three-dimensional system. Haida Gwaii, Canada’s most remote archipelago, is endowed with valuable karst resources, many of which reside within the globally scarce coastal temperate rainforest biome. Other such occurrences are limited mainly to Vancouver Island and some smaller coastal BC islands, Southeast Alaska, the State of Tasmania in Australia, New Zealand’s South Island, and southern Chile. Despite the rarity and sensitivity of this resource, practically no formal karst inventory work or research has been conducted on Haida Gwaii. The many natural and cultural values of karst resources on Haida Gwaii include, but are not limited to, water, fish, wildlife, timber, heritage, recreation and tourism. Recognizing that karst landscapes are highly inter-connected, complex ecosystems is the first step in properly managing and protecting these valuable resources. On September 15, 2006, the Haida Gwaii Forest District became the first district in BC to legally require protection of most categories of karst resource features,including all karst caves, from the damaging effects of forestry activities. Achieving and maintaining effective karst management practices requires the full support, cooperation and vigilance of the wider public. Meaningful public engagement and support for karst best management practices are more forthcoming when people have a good working knowledge of karst values, the sensitivity of the resource, and the rationale behind protective strategies. As stewards of their karst resources, Haida Gwaii residents need to understand the terminology, processes and values associated with karst systems. The public can play a key role in determining the level and quality of management and protection that karst resources receive. Decision makers are ultimately accountable to the public, and it is their responsibility to become adequately informed about karst and understand how their decisions may impact the karst resources entrusted to their care. The purpose of this publication is to promote a greater awareness, understanding and appreciation of Haida Gwaii’s karst resources.

Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology