Use of the biogeoclimatic ecosystem classification system in British Columbia

Abstract

Biogeoclimatic ecosystem classification (BEC) is a hierarchical system that organizes ecosystems at three levels of integration — local, regional and chronological. The system is used by silviculturists and range, recreation and wildlife managers in British Columbia. Based on the study of both vegetation and sites, the system reveals ecological potentialities and limitations of particular sites, and combined with the accumulation and widespread dissemination of ecological knowledge provides an ideal framework for integrated resource management. The ways in which the BEC system is adapted for, and used by, resource managers are described and demonstrated. Ongoing activities, including classification of seral ecosystems, quantification of soil moisture and nutrient regimes, identification of relationships between forest productivity and site quality, and provincial correlation of the six Regional classifications, are outlined.