The provincial government announced today that it will make a major policy shift to protect private land forests. Government intends to amend the Forest Management Act to allow for the implementation of regulations to ensure the long-term health and productivity of the Island's forest resources. This policy shift has been brought about by the issues currently facing private forest lands and the efforts of landowners, industry and government to address those issues.
"The Round Table on Resource Land Use and Stewardship recommended that the Forest Partnership Council (FPC), which represents woodlot owners, sawmillers, contractors, environmentalists and government develop a system of harvest controls by March 31, 1998," said Eric Hammill, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry. "Council members have drafted a regulated Code of Practice which they believe is the most effective approach to dealing with private land issues, and at present, they are finalizing their discussions on standards, funding, and penalties."
The minister stressed that the proposed Forest Code of Practice regulations would address current issues by directing the harvest to appropriate stands, promoting reforestation, and establishing a firm set of environmental standards for private land harvest operations. The minister also reassured land owners that it would protect their rights to harvest wood for domestic use and develop their lands for the best end use.
Mr. Hammill said that once the FPC's recommendations are finalized, they will be brought forward for public input. Based on this input, government will make any necessary refinements or adjustments, and implement the new regulations under the Forest Management Act.
Ian Dennison, Chair of the Forest Partnership Council, expressed support for this policy shift. "Council members are volunteers who have spent a great deal of time crafting regulations that protect young stands, do not impede landowner and contractor rights to harvest mature stands, and encourage reforestation," he said. "We are all very pleased with the progress we have made on these issues and much of the credit belongs to the FPC members who have given so much effort and time."
Mr. Hammill emphasized that everyone must be willing to share responsibility for the future of the forest resource. According to the minister, the proposed regulations will require the Island's forest sector to learn new skills and will require changes to the way in which contractors conduct operations on private land forests. He stressed that these changes are positive and are designed for the long-term well being of the forest sector.
For more information contact:
Jerry Gavin
368-4700
Ian Dennison
658-2620