NLIS 7
June 9, 2000
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)

Minister Aylward clarifies cutting in Main River area

Forest Resources and Agrifoods Minister, Kevin Aylward, today clarified the situation with regard to Corner Brook Pulp and Paper�s plans to harvest wood in the Main River area.

Minister Aylward stated that "CBPP is proceeding to harvest in areas already approved through the environmental assessment process. The areas are included in the company�s five year plan which was developed in consultation with a broad stakeholder group, and subsequently approved through the environmental assessment process in 1996." This is approximately 25 kms from the area that CBPP had recently requested approval for from Environment and Labour. I want to note that our government is working with the company to ensure that adequate buffer zones are left in areas, previously approved, to ensure and maintain Heritage River Status."

The minister explained that the province is not in danger of losing its old growth forest. The island of Newfoundland measures about 11,169,300 ha. Forestry development takes place on only about 1,600,000 ha. or 14 per cent of the total land base. The minister also pointed out that in terms of forest land, the island has about 5,047,900 ha. Forest operations are taking place on only 1,600,000 ha. The minister stated "in other words, 70 per cent of the forest lands on the island are not available for development and, as a result, there will always be an abundance of old growth forest."

"The forests must be managed. Large stands of over-mature timber are more susceptible to forest fires, insect infestation or disease. Harvesting old trees is part of forest management. If you pay close attention to previously cutover areas, they are growing back as healthier and stronger forests. The government and industry do silviculture and thinning that ensure we maintain a healthy forest. Ten years after cutting, a healthy young forest can be seen. The forests can and will grow back again," said Minister Aylward.

" In terms of wildlife concerns, particularly the endangered pine marten, the minister advises that these concerns are addressed as wood harvesting plans are being developed. In fact, the impact of harvesting on pine marten in the Main River area is the subject of studies currently underway in cooperation with CBPP. The company has been very cooperative and shares our concern for the pine marten. The department and the company agree that harvesting can proceed without danger to the pine marten," said the minister.

Mr. Aylward advised that he has had discussions with the company regarding heritage status of Main River. "The company is committed to supporting the nomination for heritage river status, and will avoid cutting in areas which could jeopardize that nomination," said the minister.

In closing, the minister stated: "The responsibility to sustain our forest resources including the timber, wildlife and habitat lies within the Department of Forest Resources and Agrifoods. We would not jeopardize one for the other. We need to maintain a balance and ensure the future of our forest industries and our natural resources."

Media contact: Cynthia Layden-Barron, Communications, (709) 729-6183, fax: (709) 729-2076.

2000 06 09                 3:10 p.m.