Additional funding for resource roads program; 
key forestry programs maintained at current budget levels

Forest Resources and Agrifoods Minister Rick Woodford announced today that Budget 2003 provides an additional $700,000 for the department�s resource roads program. This is the third year the budget for resource roads has been increased, bringing the total budget to $4 million.

Minister Woodford said he is extremely pleased with the funding increase for resource roads. "This shows government�s continued commitment to help strengthen and support the economic development of our forest and agricultural industries through an efficient and environmentally responsible resource roads network. Our resource roads program is indeed an example of sound forestry and agriculture management, ensuring both economic benefits and ecological integrity."

Meanwhile, Minister Woodford said that funding in this year�s provincial budget for forestry programs such as insect control, silviculture and forest fire suppression will remain at current levels, allowing the department to continue its prudent and sustainable forestry management and effective protection of our valuable forest ecosystem.

The 2003 Budget includes $6.5 million for the insect control program, $7.3 million for silviculture initiatives, including reforestation and thinning, and $2.8 million for forest fire suppression.

Minister Woodford said every program is critical to sustainable forest management. "These important programs will be the focal points in our efforts this year and beyond in managing our forest resources, along with our valuable public consultation process. We remain committed to working with all stakeholders to achieve a balance between protecting our forest ecosystem and ensuring the future of our forest industries."

The minister added that the department will be funding a number of new initiatives through a

re-alignment of existing budgets. "These initiatives include the creation of a Special Investigations Unit, streamlining the forest management planning process, better tracking of wood produced and transported in the province, re-focusing our silviculture programs, and positioning our province for ISO Certification."

Minister Woodford stated that with the expansion of the Wooddale Provincial Tree Nursery, the department�s silviculture program in 2003-04 will be directed more towards reforestation and planting. "The nursery expansion, which will be completed in June, will allow us to focus on increased planting initiatives that will enhance our forest resource and create a healthy and sustainable forest ecosystem for future generations," said Minister Woodford. "Every seedling we plant is an investment in our future and we are committed to ensuring both the environmental and economic health of our forests."

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

2003 03 27                                        4:15pm