Nova Scotia is moving towards a forestry model that protects ecosystems and biodiversity, supports economic growth, and keeps our forests healthy and sustainable.

Ecological Forestry

The province is committed to adopting a model that protects ecosystems and biodiversity, supports economic growth, and keeps our forests healthy and sustainable.

Crown land resources belong to all Nova Scotians. We want interested individuals and groups to participate in the change and understand how and why decisions are being made.

A review of forestry practices in Nova Scotia (PDF 429 KB) has provided a series of recommendations and work is now underway (PDF 78 KB) to change how we think about our forests, while maintaining a sustainable forestry industry.

These efforts are focused in three key areas:

  • Conserving Biodiversity
  • Nurturing Healthy Forests
  • Supporting Sustainable Industry

Initiatives have begun to support the independent forestry review and recommendations government received under these three themes.

  Conserving Biodiversity Nurturing Healthy Forests Supporting Sustainable Industry
Environmental Assessment
Forest Management Guide
High Production Forestry
Natural Disturbance Regimes
Old Forest Policy
Outcomes-Based Forest Management
Reporting on the State of the Forest
Small Scale Wood Energy Initiative
Species at Risk Program Renewal

An evaluation of the department's progress implementing the model will be completed by spring 2020.

Environmental Assessment

To develop a proposed regulatory framework, for government’s consideration, to review Crown land forest stewardship plans by applicable Crown forest agreement holders either as a Class II environmental Assessment (EA) under the Environment Act or in a process that is similar to the Class II process.

  • Current Status: Working on identifying regulatory options; RFP issued to hire a consultant to develop a guide for the preparation of 20-year forest stewardship plans
  • Timeline: Target project completion: Fall/Winter 2020.
  • Environmental Assessment – Overview (PDF 504 KB)

Forest Management Guide

This guide, which is being revised, outlines the types of forest practices that can be used on Crown lands.

High Production Forestry

Working to define how and where sites are selected for high yield timber production.

Natural Disturbance Regimes

Studying how to better align forestry practices with naturally occurring elements that affect forests such as fire, wind, and insects.

Old Forest Policy

Reviewing how old growth and old forests are identified.

Outcomes-Based Forest Management

Designing an approach to manage forests according to expected outcomes that prioritize biodiversity and recognize ecological, social, and economic values.

Reporting on the State of the Forest

Improving how we report on the state of the province’s forests.

Small Scale Wood Energy Initiative

Launching a new initiative that will see more public buildings replace their fossil fuel heating system to locally sourced wood chip heating systems.

Species at Risk Program Renewal

Updating the management system with our partners to create a framework to ensure the protection of species at risk.

In addition to this work, more teams are being formed and are developing work plans, which will include identifying necessary expertise and stakeholder engagement options.

We Want to Hear From You

If you would like to join our email update list, ask a specific question or provide feedback, please email ecologicalforestry@novascotia.ca.

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Forest Practices Review Material

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