Where can you see three million tree seedlings growing in one place? Where can you learn how forests are accurately measured using satellites orbiting the earth? Where could you get information on how to manage your family's forest land for timber, wildlife, recreation, or other uses?
On Wednesday, June 7, the J. Frank Gaudet Tree Nursery in West Royalty is hosting an open house to celebrate Environment Week 2000 and provide Islanders with a look at Prince Edward Island's largest tree seedling production facilities. The impressive greenhouse structure is a state of the art facility which covers an area of almost one acre. In 2000, the Nursery will produce some three million tree seedlings for reforestation efforts on private and public lands, special planting projects, and watershed enhancement programs. Wholesale ornamental plant materials are also produced at the Nursery to supply local garden centres with locally produced native tree and ornamental shrub stock. Staff for the Nursery also provide homeowners a variety of gardening and landscaping advice.
"The Nursery is named after J. Frank Gaudet, the first forester hired by the province," said Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Honourable Mitch Murphy. "Mr Gaudet worked for many years to promote forest conservation to PEI's 12,000 woodlot owners and to improve hundreds of acres of Crown land forest. Holding the open house at the nursery recognizes his legacy, so I encourage everyone to attend and learn more about our Island's forest and farm resources."
Other displays will feature forest fire fighting equipment and information on forested buffer zones along streams and ponds, satellite mapping technology, sustainable agriculture practices, Island food products, geographic information systems, and many other interesting and informative displays promoting the use and conservation of the province's natural resources. The site is wheel chair accessible and the event runs from 3 - 7 p.m. Everyone is welcome.
The Nursery is located on Upton Road, one minute north of the West Royalty Industrial Park. For more information call 902 368 4700.