West Babine Sustainable Resource Management Plan

Objective Indicator(s) Target/
3. To manage viewscapes
zoned with a
modification visual
quality objectives so
that alterations borrow
from natural line and
form to such an extent
that they are
comparable to natural
occurrences (see Map
8, page 73).
Amount and
type of visual
alteration.
--
Measure
Management
Considerations
Alterations must borrow from
natural line and form to such an
extent and on such a scale that they
are comparable to natural
occurrences.
Openings will exhibit elements of
good block design which may
include: strategic placement of
leave trees and patches, feathered
edges, and borrowing lines from
the natural character of the
landscape.
Visually effective green-up shall
be 3 metres.
Alternative systems will be
considered where stand structure is
suitable.
Select a technique (i.e. sketch,
photographic manipulation or
computer model (DTM)) and
prepare a Visual Impact
Assessment (VIA) for each design
option. Consult the forest district
if there is any doubt as to the
technique necessary for a given
operation.
3.2.3 Special Management Zones
There are two Special Management Zones (SMZs) in the West Babine, designated as an outcome
of the Kispiox LRMP: Babine River SMZ and Atna-Shelagyote SMZ (see Map 6, page 71).
Both of these SMZs were zoned for their Scenic/ Recreation/ Wildlife values.
3.2.3.1 Babine River Valley SMZ
The Babine River Valley SMZ is adjacent to Babine River Corridor Provincial Park and provides
a buffer between the park and the landbase zoned for integrated resource management. The
stated objective of the SMZ is “to protect and buffer the river-based resource values”
(specifically grizzly bears, recreation/tourism, and fish habitat and water quality) within Babine
River Corridor Provincial Park. The area continues to be used by the Gitxsan people and there
are a number of cultural heritage features within the area.
Page 38 March 2004