Silviculture funding announced for Lake Melville District

Forest Resources and Agrifoods Minister Rick Woodford, along with MHA Ernie McLean, has announced total funding in the amount of $58,380 for two silviculture projects in District of Lake Melville. The funding has been provided through the provincial silviculture program.

One project, valued at $16,680, will take place in the vicinity of Alder Brook Road and involve the planting of approximately 100,000 seedlings from the Goose Bay nursery over an area of 40 hectares. The other project, valued at $41,700, is taking place in the area of Grand Lake Road and will see the planting of 250,000 tree seedlings from the Goose Bay nursery over an area of 100 hectares.

"Investing into the future of our forest resource through tree planting initiatives is an integral component of government�s responsible approach to sustainable forest management," said Minister Woodford. "This year, approximately eight million tree seedlings will be planted as part of the provincial silviculture program. Government�s commitment in this regard will help sustain a healthy forest for the future."

Mr. McLean said: "Silviculture initiatives are important to our province�s reforestation efforts. Government is committed to an aggressive silviculture program, which is key to prudent management and protection of our valuable forest resources. In addition, the provincial silviculture program creates meaningful employment opportunities for many individuals in rural communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador."

Budland Enterprises was awarded the contract for both projects. The projects are expected to commence on July 1 and create a total of 172 person weeks of employment.

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

2003 06 30                                       12:00 p.m.