Government Signs Partnership Agreement on Working Demonstration Forest

Nova Scotians will have an opportunity to enhance their understanding of sustainable forest management through a working demonstration forest.

The forest, in the Mooseland area at Otter Ponds, HRM, will promote the philosophy, science, and practice of uneven-aged forest management in the Acadian Forest. It was established by the province, Northern Pulp, and the Nova Scotia Woodlot Owners and Operators Association, with help from community and environmental groups.

The operating agreement for the project was signed today, June 22.

A new division under the woodlot owners and operators association, the Otter Ponds demonstration forest division, will manage the initiative. The division will include members from the Ecology Action Centre, the Eastern Shore Forest Watch Association, and the Mooseland and Area Community Association.

"This is an excellent example of collaboration among government, the forest industry, environmental and community groups," said John MacDonell, Minister of Natural Resources. "A healthy and sustainably managed forest is vital in creating good jobs, growing the economy, and to the quality of life of all Nova Scotians."

The demonstration site will be managed and operated as a working woodlot, producing timber for processing and maintaining a sustainable ecosystem.

"Northern Pulp is very proud to be part of the Otter Ponds demonstration forest project," said Mike McLarty, timberlands manager for Northern Pulp. "We have been managing our forests sustainably for over 40 years and believe education and research are an integral part of growing healthy forests in Nova Scotia. This collaborative effort is an opportunity for industry, government, and non-government organizations to work toward this common goal."

This project will test resource management options, and build on best practices.

"The four diverse non-government organizations of the Otter Ponds demonstration forest division are ready to get this project underway," said Wade Prest, director of the Nova Scotia Woodlot Owners and Operators Association, and secretary of the new division. "The Otter Ponds block is ideally suited for uneven-aged forestry and holds important water, wildlife, biodiversity, and social values that will be enhanced by our management approach. This challenging project offers a wide range of potential benefits for all Nova Scotians."

The working forest will also allow for field testing silviculture techniques and restoration practices.

"The Ecology Action Centre applauds the government for allowing this demonstration of progressive forestry on Crown land," said Jamie Simpson, forestry program co-ordinator with the Ecology Action Centre. "With time, the Otter Ponds forest will become an 'open air' classroom for anyone interested in learning and sharing ideas about forestry and ecology, on-the-ground and in the woods."

For more information, contact the Otter Ponds demonstration forest division at 902-772-2211.