Atlantic Canada, Maine, Launch Non-Timber Forest Products Directory

Woodlot owners who produce maple syrup, Christmas trees and other non-timber forest products are getting a boost to help sell their goods.

A new publication launched today, April 4, called From Our Atlantic Woods, lists more than 260 businesses that promote goods and services other than conventional wood products like timber and pulpwood.

"The directory provides an opportunity for the forest sector to diversify," said Minister of Natural Resources Carolyn Bolivar-Getson. "It will also help those woodland owners who earn some income from their forests by selling non-timber products, to improve access to niche markets. This is critical, given that traditional forest markets have been declining."

Other examples of non-timber forest products include fiddleheads, wild mushrooms, bentwood furniture, greenery, berry wines, essential oils and eco-tourism.

"The directory will help woodland owners develop a diverse and sustainable non-timber forest products industry in our region," said Ms. Bolivar-Getson.

The directory was produced by forestry organizations in the four Atlantic provinces and Maine to help promote local products and encourage new opportunities for local businesses. The directory includes business listings, guides on various topics and recipes.

Free copies of the directory will be available provincewide Tuesday, April 14 at Natural Resources offices, Sobeys, farmers markets and other locations. The directory is available online at FromOurAtlanticWoods.com .