It’s not surprising that forest companies cancelled their appearance at Monday’s Port Alberni city council meeting. The vitriol and threats spewing from a few members of the public angry that these companies are blocking access to the backcountry is enough to make anyone hesitate facing a crowd. The negativity and vigilantism is also making it difficult for those backcountry enthusiasts who are trying to come to an agreement with the companies. How can any progress be made when people are threatening on social media to destroy private property, no matter how empty these boasts may be? …The logging companies owe backcountry users in the Alberni Valley a conversation about access. Residents owe the companies some civility to allow that meeting to happen. Both sides need to think about solutions.