More than half the areas they sampled were in "marginal or poor" condition.

The pulp mill, which had been operational since 1967, stopped production on Jan. 31.

The forestry sector said forcing the industry to follow the act would be a bureaucratic nightmare and "impossible."

The budget indicates that 277 people in permanent positions with Alberta Agriculture and Forestry are facing layoffs.

"As the climate warms, it will have a negative effect on the species we depend on for pulp and lumber supply."

"I think that sends a strong message that forestry is absolutely critical to the economics in our communities," said organizer Carl Sweet.

The province's forestry industry had been shipping between 35 and 40 per cent of harvested pulpwood - the portions of a tree that can't be used for lumber - to the now idled Northern Pulp Mill.

United Steelworkers Local 1-1937 announced Saturday that its members had ratified the tentative, five-year agreement by 81.9 per cent over two days of voting this week.

About 3,000 employees and contractors at Western Forest Products facilities in several Vancouver Island communities have been off the job since July 1.

B.C. Labour Minister Harry Bains says the pair will have "additional powers" to recommend a settlement in the eight-month dispute.