Silviculture funding announced for project in Labrador

Ed Byrne, Minister of Natural Resources, along with John Hickey, MHA for Lake Melville, today announced funding in the amount of $32,237 for a silviculture project taking place in the district.

Minister Byrne said silviculture initiatives such as the pre-commercial thinning work taking place as part of this project have numerous benefits.

"Silviculture projects help ensure healthy fibre sources are available for the future while enhancing ecosystem structure," said Minister Byrne. "Through this project, government is demonstrating its commitment to implementing a responsible forest management strategy for Labrador."

Mr. Hickey said, "I will support any initiative aimed at protecting the future well-being of our province�s forest resources. I also welcome the employment opportunities and other economic benefits that this project will provide for the Lake Melville region."

This project, which is part of government�s $7.3 million silviculture program, will involve pre-commercial thinning activity over an area of 50 hectares in the vicinity of Grand Lake Road. This project is expected to create 20 person weeks of employment and is expected to be completed in late September or early October.

Media contact: Carmel Turpin, Communications, (709) 729-5282, (709) 685-4624

2004 09 16                             11:05 a.m.