Approximately 100 hectares of land in the pre-commercial growth stage in central Labrador is being thinned as part of this year�s Provincial Silviculture Program.

"Our silviculture program promotes long-term resource viability and the sustainable development of the industry," said the Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Minister of Natural Resources and Minister Responsible for the Forestry and Agrifoods Agency. "This project will help to ensure the future health of Labrador�s forests and the sustainability of the forest industry."

The thinning project is valued at $92,000 and is underway at Grand Lake Road, north of Happy Valley-Goose Bay. The existing immature trees are being thinned to a desired density of 2,500 stems per hectare. The project is providing 80 person-weeks of employment.

"I applaud government�s commitment to the province�s forest industry year after year," said the Honourable John Hickey, Lake Melville MHA. "This initiative will help with the development of a sustainable industry for Labrador, which is currently being explored, and will hopefully bring economic benefits to the people of Labrador."

Budget 2009: Building on Our Strong Foundation includes a $10.9 million investment by the Provincial Government for silviculture activities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, a $200,000 increase over last year.

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