Silviculture initiative taking place in Lewisporte district

Ed Byrne, Minister of Natural Resources, and Tom Rideout, Minister of Transportation and Works and MHA for Lewisporte district, today announced $133,800 in funding for silviculture work taking place in the district this summer. The funding is being provided through the provincial silviculture program.

"The silviculture program is a critical component of this government�s commitment to responsible forest management," said Minister Byrne. "Throughout the province, government is investing a total of $7.3 million this year in various silviculture projects which play a vital role in sustaining a future wood supply for the province."

"The forestry industry is a significant employer for the region and any investment in this industry is certainly welcomed," said Minister Rideout. "Initiatives like this ensure the long-term sustainability of our forests and supports their continued growth."

This project will involve the commercial thinning of dense black spruce and balsam fir stands which have regenerated on previously harvested sites. Activity will take place over an area of approximately 200 hectares in the vicinity of Michael's Harbour and Lewisporte Southside.

This project, which is expected to create 144 person weeks of employment, is ongoing and will be completed in early September.

Media contact: Carmel Turpin, Communications, (709) 729-5282

2004 08 03                                         2:55 p.m.