Budget increase for insect control program

Forest Resources and Agrifoods Minister Rick Woodford announced today the 2002 budget for the forest insect control program will be increased by almost $2 million this year to $6.5 million.

Minister Woodford said this funding demonstrates government�s continued commitment to protecting our valuable forest resources and the significant economic and social benefits generated by the industry.

"Results from our recent fall forecast survey indicate a significant increase in insect activity in 2002, which will require a larger scale insect control program over last year," said Mr. Woodford. "The funding increase announced today will allow us to enhance our forest insect control program and minimize the damage that harmful insects can do to our forest ecosystem."

The minister said government is committed to responding to insect infestation in an effective and timely manner to minimize any negative economic and social impacts.

"Failure to respond to insect infestations in a timely manner may result in the loss of significant amounts of fibre and have devastating impacts on communities which rely on the forest industry for their economic well-being. Protecting our forest resource for future generations through an effective and environmentally responsible insect control program is a priority for government."

Fall survey results indicate that the hemlock looper is expected to cause moderate to severe defoliation on approximately 190,000 hectares. This area contains 19 million cubic metres of timber, or a nine-year supply, and has a value of over $7 billion. The balsam fir sawfly will affect upwards of 65,500 hectares of forest in mainly second growth fir stands, much of which have been silviculturally treated at considerable expense.

Mr. Woodford said his department is actively preparing a forest insect control strategy in conjunction with the Canadian Forest Service and other stakeholders involved in the forest industry to address the anticipated increase in insect activity this year. It is anticipated that the insect spray program will see up to 100,000 hectares of forest treated.

Media contact: Sonia B. Glover, Communications, (709) 729-6183.

2002 03 21                             3:30 p.m.