Ministerial Statement, Harvest Plan on Hold

NOTE: The following is a statement from Iain Rankin, Minister of Lands and Forestry.

Over the past few days I have heard from concerned community members and recently received information that points to there being species at risk in the proposed harvest area between Dalhousie and Corbett Lakes in Annapolis County.

As the Minister of Lands and Forestry it is my duty to ensure responsible management of forestry practices while protecting the province’s biodiversity.

I have ordered Westfor to put a hold on the harvest until further investigation can be done.

I take the feedback of staff and the public very seriously. We have an opportunity to engage further with community members as the department reviews evidence put forward. I will continue to ensure decisions are made based on science and evidence with a focus on ecological conservation and protecting the province's wildlife.