This site provides an educational perspective on the Biogeoclimatic Ecosystem Classification (BEC) System in BC. The BEC system was developed by Dr. V.J. Krajina of the University of BC and has been adopted and expanded by the BC Ministry of Forests as a framework for managing ecosystems. Since the 1970’s, regional ecologists have continued to refine and develop the classification system.

Choose one of the following links:

BEC Zone Education
Provides an overview of the zone classification in BC

BEC Site Classification Education
Provides details on how to classify sites including scenarios

Note: The Provincially maintained website which includes links to maps and other information can be found at:
www.for.gov.bc.ca/hre/becweb/mapping.htm

This site was developed by: Derek Marcoux R.P.Bio., Instructor, Selkirk College, 301 Frank Beinder Way, Castlegar, B.C V1N 3J1 Ph: (250) 365-7292 Fax: (250) 365-6568 Design by: HLF Images Design and New Media Consultants Box 482, Rossland, BC V0G 1Y0 ph: 250-362-3394 fax:250-362-3393

Special Thanks to: Marvin Eng for provincial cross section data Images contributed by: Evan McKenzie – Consultant, Nelson BC Dennis Holden - Selkirk College, Castlegar BC (Retired) Ray Coupe – Ministry of Forests, Williams Lake BC Mike Curran – Ministry of Forests, Nelson, BC Allen Banner – Ministry of Forests, Smithers, BC Ted Newberry – Northern Lights College

© 2004 Province of British Columbia, Ministry of Advanced Education
This project was funded by the Ministry of Advanced Education Training and Technology. This project has received input from technical schools and universities that instruct forestry in BC including: BCIT, College of New Caladonia, Nicola Valley Institute of Technology, Northern Lights College, Malaspina University College, Selkirk College, University of British Columbia, University College of the Caribou and University of Northern BC. In addition, input was received from the BC Ministry of Forests, Research branch. This material may not be reproduced in any form without permission. Material from other sources in this site may not be reproduced without permission from the copyright owners.