The provincial government is investing in the forestry sector and private woodlot owners in Nova Scotia.
The investment aims to keep Nova Scotians working in the woods while supporting the shift to ecological forestry.
Premier Ian Rankin announced $5.4 million towards silviculture work and the improvement of forestry roads on Monday.
“We are committed to supporting a sustainable forestry industry in Nova Scotia as we transition to ecological forestry,” Rankin said in a release. “This additional funding will help keep Nova Scotians working while improving our forests across the province.”
The investment includes $2 million for silviculture and $1 million for roads on private land, as well as $1 million for silviculture and $400,000 for roads on Crown land.
In a release Forest Nova Scotia Executive Eirector, Jeff Bishop states that an investment in woodlot owners is important for their communities and long term success of the forestry sector.
“Healthy, managed forests provide us with clean air, clean water, outdoor recreation places and the wood products we all use every day,” Bishop said. “Woodlot owners in this province own 65 per cent of our forested lands, and improved roadways help them manage their lands for today and tomorrow.”
The remaining funding will go to training workers to support the new ecological forestry practices with The Association for Sustainable Forestry receiving $330,000 and $670,000 going to the Canadian Woodlands Forum.
