International Pine Marten Symposium to promote pine marten management

Forest Resources and Agrifoods Minister Kevin Aylward feels Martes 2000 will lead to a better understanding and improved management of the pine marten in Newfoundland and Labrador as well as martes species throughout the world. Martes 2000 is an International Pine Marten Symposium held in Corner Brook this week.

"Martes 2000 will provide researchers and natural resource managers gathering in Corner Brook this week with an opportunity to learn what others are doing to conserve pine marten populations," said Aylward. "Wildlife managers throughout other parts of the world are facing similar challenges with respect to maintaining pine marten habitats. Achieving a balance between forest harvesting practices and pine marten habitats requires input from all those with a vested interest in our forests. In Newfoundland and Labrador we are making significant progress in this regard. The establishment of the Little Grand Lake Reserve is a prime example of how wildlife and forest stakeholders have worked together to successfully address the decline in pine marten numbers."

Aylward also noted that this international conference in Corner Brook is taking place on the heels of the successful Canadian Institute of Forestry national conference also held in the city last week. "The fact that two major conferences dealing with forestry and wildlife issues are taking place in Corner Brook this summer demonstrates that this region of the province is being recognized by those with a vested interest in forestry and wildlife management as a leading centre with respect to current and future directions in each respective field."

Aylward noted the broad scope of the symposium which welcomed participants representing seven countries to Newfoundland and Labrador. He says learning about martes experiences will enhance the overall study of the species.

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

2000 08 17                            10:20 a.m.