Forest losses need to be addressed

Last week the Healthy Forest Coalition held a forest funeral to mourn the losses to our forest through over-harvesting and clearcutting.

It was a sombre event, but also a reminder of the work that can lead us to a new forestry plan for Nova Scotia.

Over the last decade, Nova Scotia has taken many steps in the right direction for our forests including broad consultations for the Natural Resources Strategy, expanding crown lands through the purchase of the Bowater lands and founding our first community forests.

More recently, we’ve also seen government decisions that take us down the wrong path. Last year, the Liberal government abandoned the goal of reduced clear cuts on crown land. We also heard from the auditor general that the Department of Natural Resources is behind in plans to safeguard endangered species.

Luckily, it’s not too late to take a different path. Nova Scotia’s forests can still provide us ecological, recreation and economic value for the long-term.

Groups and advocates like the Medway Community Forest, the Otter Pond Demonstration Project, Jim Drescher at Windhorse Farm, the folks at Woods Camp, the Nova Scotia Landowners and Forest Fibre Producers Association, Taylor Lumber, Mi’kmaw communities and crafts producers show us the successes that come with a forestry model that is low-volume and high value.

Last week’s forest funeral doesn’t have to be the end. If we take direction from these community leaders, it could mark a rebirth of sustainable forests in Nova Scotia. Lisa Roberts

MLA – Halifax Needham

NDP Natural Resources spokesperson