The BCCFA works to ensure the viability of community forest initiatives in rural communities across BC. We provide education on community forestry issues, assist community forest practitioners in accessing resources required to succeed, and promote community forest management as a strategy for community economic development.The Guiding Principles of the BCCFA are to promote the following:-Culturally, ecologically, and economically sustainable forestryand practice of community forest initiatives in a manner which respects First Nation rights and cultural values, and which fosters understanding and cooperation between rural communities and First Nations.-Meaningful representation of community members in community forest initiatives.-Informed public participation in community forest decision-making.-Leading edge forest practices.-Local forest-based employment.-The restoration of forest ecosystems as a basis for social, ecological and economic health.-Community responsibility for land use and allocation decisions.