Released on November 26, 2009
More than two million cubic metres of wood volume are set to be reallocated from the Prince Albert Forest Management Agreement (FMA) to a group of 10 northern forest companies and First Nations.
Energy and Resources Minister Bill Boyd announced today that this mix of existing operators and First Nations will receive the wood allocations from the FMA once consultations are concluded with area First Nations around any potential impacts on treaty rights.
The minister said another 200,000 cubic metres of softwood are being reserved for 18 months for consideration of new proposals by companies and forest communities. As well, the government has set aside 661,000 cubic metres of pulpwood for Domtar while discussions continue with the company on the future of the Prince Albert Pulp Mill.
"This process of wood allocation was fair and inclusive, involving extensive deliberation by government and extensive consultation with forestry stakeholders," Boyd said. "Through these allocations we're meeting our goals of ensuring a stronger, sustainable forest industry in our province and supporting existing processing capacity, as well as providing opportunities for First Nations to participate in forest development.
"Our government will also continue to work with communities affected by challenges to the forest industry and help them explore economic development opportunities."
Boyd said new management of the FMA will be named shortly, and will likely be a partnership of the industry, First Nations and community interests that are receiving wood allocations.
The Prince Albert FMA, comprising more than 3.3 million hectares in area, is currently managed by Domtar and held in the name of Weyerhaeuser.
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For more information, contact:
Roy Schneider
Energy and Resources
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1691
Email: roy.schneider@gov.sk.ca