The summer of 2004 was a controversial and difficult one for many in the Island’s ground hemlock harvest industry. Allegations of trespass, theft, poor harvest practices, and damage to forests were widespread as many people tried to get in on this new and exciting forest product. Public hearings into these concerns led to recommendations for government to regulate the industry by requiring mandatory training and licensing for those involved in the commercial harvest, purchase, and export of ground hemlock (Taxus canadensis).
In preparation for the new regulations, the Province has announced that the first Ground Hemlock Buyers’ Course will be held in Charlottetown on December 6, 2005.
“These regulations will require everyone involved in the ground hemlock industry to complete mandatory training and become licensed before they can operate in Prince Edward Island,” stated Jamie Ballem, Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry. “This first course will allow us to evaluate the effectiveness of the training component and make any revisions before the regulations come into effect.”
Minister Ballem noted that the first course will focus on those who buy and/or export ground hemlock. He indicated that these people are central to the effective implementation of the new requirements because they are often the primary contact for people who harvest within their buying area.
Retired forester Paul McKnight, will deliver this full-day buyers’ course. Over the past decade, Mr. McKnight has worked closely with the ground hemlock industry and researchers who are exploring how to harvest the plant sustainably. He has agreed to share this experience with the students.
“When they complete these courses, harvesters and buyers should understand their obligations and responsibilities under the regulations,” Mr. McKnight explained. “Trained and responsible workers will know how to harvest the plant correctly and protect sensitive forest areas. Landowners will also gain a measure of protection because licensed workers and buyers must have signed contracts and harvest ground hemlock within the sustainability guidelines.”
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to apply for their Buyer’s Licence. This licence allows them to buy ground hemlock which meets the PEI sustainable harvest standard. However, they will only be able to buy from licensed harvesters or landowners who provide proof of ownership for their material.
Courses for harvesters will be offered in several Island locations in 2006.
Both the buyers’ and harvesters’ courses were developed by staff of the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry, in cooperation with several federal government agencies and the ground hemlock harvest industry. Derrick Smith from Chatham Biotec, one of the region’s largest ground hemlock companies, was instrumental in the development of the training program. He will also be working with the department and its partners to review the results of the December 6 course and make any necessary revisions.
“The new regulations are designed to deal fairly with many of the problems identified in 2004,” concluded Minister Ballem. “Establishing a level playing field with trained workers and buyers is good for the resource and landowners, and will have many positive implications for the future of the ground hemlock industry in PEI.”
The cost of the Ground Hemlock Buyers’ Course is $40/person and space is limited, so pre-registration is recommended. For more information on Ground Hemlock Regulations or to register for the course, contact the Forests, Fish and Wildlife Division at (902) 368-4700.