A co-management agreement has been signed with the Abegweit First Nation for sustainable forest management of public lands in the Scotchfort area.
“Our forestry staff will work closely with representatives of the Abegweit First Nation on sustainable forestry practices which will include developing land management plans and training in wood harvesting and forest restoration,” says Richard Brown, minister of environment, energy and forestry.
“This agreement will improve the health of our forests and create expertise in small-scale silviculture.”
The 10-year agreement models the co-management agreement the province has with the Macphail Woods Ecological Forestry Project, which manages 2,000 acres in the Orwell-Caledonia area.
“We appreciate the partnership we have developed with the province of Prince Edward Island which has been a factor leading to this important agreement,” said Chief Brian Francis.
“The Mi'kmaq have long been stewards of the land and look forward to maintaining and renewing our traditional practices and activities, as well as seeking additional sustainable economic and cultural opportunities through this partnership.”
Non-timber products with economic value that can be harvested on these properties include food, medicinal plants, biomass and ground hemlock.
“We would like to see more people participating in small-scale silviculture and we hope agreements like these will encourage others to become involved in the sustainable development of our forests,” said Minister Brown.
