March 21, 1999
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)

Silviculture programs help sustain forest resources

The Department of Forest Resources and Agrifoods will invest $4.5 million dollars in silviculture operations for the 1999/2000 fiscal year. Combined federal, provincial and forest industry sources will total $12 million.

Minister of Forest Resources and Agrifoods, Kevin Aylward said today: "Silviculture work enhances the future forest resource for the next generation. There are obvious long-term economic benefits, which make silviculture activities uniquely suitable for employment generation in rural Newfoundland and Labrador. We are committed to enhancing the resources while ensuring meaningful employment in many of our rural communities.

"The labour/investment ratio for silviculture is very high, as more than .75 of every dollar is paid out in wages," said the minister. "This is a good investment by the province and it will provide a stronger resource for the future."

Each year, silviculture programs under the Newfoundland Forest Service and supported by local development associations and other community groups, funded in part through the Employment Initiatives Program, employ approximately 700 persons. In 1998/99, silviculture treatments were undertaken on approximately 2,000 hectares of forested land. Silviculture treatments include stand reclamation, pre-commercial thinning, commercial thinning, and plantation maintenance. Other forestry-related projects included wood removal, trail construction, road maintenance and roadside improvement, plus several projects carried out in cooperation with wildlife, parks, and fisheries.

Forestry and silviculture have become mainstays of the rural economy in many areas of the province. Forests that have been silviculturally treated continue to build equity and to support the economy of rural areas at time of harvest.

Silviculture work leaves a visible legacy that will provide surrounding communities with long-term benefits. It builds on rural strengths, relying on the established skills of the rural labour force, which are largely related to the traditional industries of fishery and forestry, in terms of outdoors experience, and an affinity for the forests.

Media contact: Cynthia Layden-Barron, Communications, (709) 729-6183.

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