NLIS 2
May 19, 2000
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)

Funding announced for silviculture initiatives

The first contracts for silviculture work to be completed this year in the province have been awarded. The announcement was made today by Forest Resources and Agrifoods Minister, Kevin Aylward. The six contracts awarded so far in 2000 total over $212,233 and will take place in various locations across the province including three locations on the Northern Peninsula, two in Central Newfoundland and one on the Avalon Peninsula.

"Investing into the future of our provincial forest resource through various silviculture initiatives is an integral component of the province�s responsible approach toward sustainable forest management," said Aylward. "The provincial government will spend $6.9 million on various silviculture initiatives in 2000. Approximately 26 projects incorporating activities such as site preparation, planting and thinning will be carried out throughout the province by the Department of Forest Resources and Agrifoods."

The province is currently in the final year of a five year agreement with Corner Brook Pulp and Paper and Abitibi Consolidated which has seen in excess of $35 million invested into silviculture programming over the life of the agreement. Government has contributed approximately $5.2 million as part of this cost-shared agreement.

Minister Aylward said: "Silviculture programs have provided a significant economic boost and a consistent source of employment to those communities where this work takes place, particularly those in rural areas. In addition, these silviculture initiatives help enhance the provincial wood supply ensuring sources of fibre are available for the future. About seven million tree seedlings will be planted this year in Newfoundland and Labrador."

Government is also demonstrating its commitment to sustained forest management by investing $475,864 into silviculture research and development and $568,000 into forest nursery production in 2000 where approximately 7.5 million seedlings will be produced this year.

Projects announced today are expected to commence in late May or early June. More contracts will be awarded for additional silviculture projects in coming weeks.

Media contact: Craig Renouf, (709) 637-2923, Fax, (709) 637-2403.

2000 05 19                             10:35 a.m.