Report calls forest resources well-maintained and resilient

forest report cover

Ontario Construction News staff writer

The Ontario government has released the State of Ontario’s Natural Resources – Forests 2021 report, as required by the Crown Forest Sustainability Act.

“Sustainable forest management is the foundation of our government’s forest sector strategy,” said Minister of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry Greg Rickford.

The 2021 report provides results of 21 indicators specific to forest condition and forest management, including:

  • Forest composition, growth, wildlife habitat and forest carbon
  • Harvest and regeneration
  • Forest sector employment and resource revenue sharing with Indigenous communities
  • Forest sector products and exports

Indicators show Ontario’s forest policy framework ensures resilient and well-maintained forest resources, protecting the environment and biodiversity of its managed forests.

“This report demonstrates that the forest management plan is working and that wood harvested is sustainably sourced, and our forests continue to be renewed,” said Rickford. “We will continue to work with Indigenous communities, stakeholders and the public to unlock the potential of Ontario’s forests through sustainable forest management practices.”

The Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry is responsible for managing public forests so that they remain healthy and continue to provide economic, environmental and social benefits to the people of Ontario.

Forestry was deemed an essential industry during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing essential forest products for hygiene, food, medical supplies and packaging and shipping materials. The sector generated $17.6 billion in revenue from the sale of manufactured goods and services in 2019 and supported approximately 143,000 direct and indirect jobs in 2020.

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