Natural Resources
October 13, 2009

Silviculture activities across approximately 40 hectares of land in the Ferryland area are ensuring the healthy growth of forests for future commercial harvesting operations.

"Silviculture is an important part of our forest management process and ensuring the sustainability of the resource for use by future generations," said the Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Minister of Natural Resources and Minister Responsible for the Forestry and Agrifoods Agency. "Our work involves the reforestation of areas that do not naturally regenerate and where necessary, conducting tree thinning programs to space out trees to optimize their growth."

Valued at approximately $34,000, this work will see juvenile forests pre-commercially thinned to remove excess trees and commercially undesirable tree species from the area. It will provide 24 person-weeks of employment for six people.

"This work reflects government�s commitment to the sustainability of the province�s forest sector," said Keith Hutchings, MHA for Ferryland. "Not only does this contribute to long-term economic viability, but it creates employment opportunities."

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

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