Proposal
Updating the Independent Forest Audit Process and Protocol.
Regulation Number(s):
-
Instrument Type:
Proposal
Bill or Act:
Crown Forest Sustainability Act, 1994
Summary of Decision:
We have revised the Independent Forest Audit Process and Protocol. The revisions addressed recommendations from the 2023 review of Ontario Regulation 319/20 and feedback received during the comment period. The revisions improve the efficiency and effectiveness of independent forest audits across the province's managed forests.
Analysis of Regulatory Impact:
The anticipated environmental consequences of the proposal are neutral.
• Audits performed under the revised audit protocol will continue to provide assurance that Ontario's public forests are being managed sustainably.
The anticipated social consequences of the proposal are positive.
• The proposed revisions will create better quality audits and a more effective and efficient audit program. This supports Ontario's forest sector and the socio-economic wellness of associated communities. Opportunities for First Nation and Métis community involvement have been expanded. Stakeholders and the public will continue to have an opportunity to provide input to Independent Forest Audits.
The anticipated economic consequences of the proposal are positive.
• The proposed revisions will create a more concise process for the audit companies who conduct independent forest audits. They will also improve efficiency for the ministry and the Forestry Future Trust Committee in implementing the program.
No new administrative costs are anticipated.
Completion of the Regulatory Impact Analysis for this policy show no increase in cost and no required offset value. The Regulatory Compliance Requirements (RCR) is a net change of -13.
• Audits performed under the revised audit protocol will continue to provide assurance that Ontario's public forests are being managed sustainably.
The anticipated social consequences of the proposal are positive.
• The proposed revisions will create better quality audits and a more effective and efficient audit program. This supports Ontario's forest sector and the socio-economic wellness of associated communities. Opportunities for First Nation and Métis community involvement have been expanded. Stakeholders and the public will continue to have an opportunity to provide input to Independent Forest Audits.
The anticipated economic consequences of the proposal are positive.
• The proposed revisions will create a more concise process for the audit companies who conduct independent forest audits. They will also improve efficiency for the ministry and the Forestry Future Trust Committee in implementing the program.
No new administrative costs are anticipated.
Completion of the Regulatory Impact Analysis for this policy show no increase in cost and no required offset value. The Regulatory Compliance Requirements (RCR) is a net change of -13.
Further Information:
Link to Environmental Registry
Proposal Number:
24-MNRF007
Posting Date:
September 5, 2024
Summary of Proposal:
See Environmental Registry proposal notice for details.
Contact Address:
Effective Date:
December 16, 2024
Decision:
Approved