News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The provincial government has released the 2023 State of the Forest report entitled Excellence in Forest Management – Understanding our System. The report was created to provide more awareness of the way Crown forests are managed.

“We are committed to increasing transparency and I am honoured to be the first minister in almost a decade to release a report on the state of our forests,” said Natural Resources and Energy Development Minister Mike Holland. “This will now be an annual report so that New Brunswickers can have access to up-to-date information about our most valuable resource.

“I am passionate about conserving our natural habitat and I am proud of the work that has been done to increase protected areas for New Brunswickers to enjoy, while also ensuring our forests can continue to support diverse social, cultural and economic activities.”

Each year, the report will present a different theme. This year’s theme focuses on the province’s forest-management system which is centred on seven pillars: inventory; forest development; zoning; planning; operations; monitoring; and protection. Future topics will delve into conservation, climate change, diversified use of the forest, as well as the forest industry and growth in non-timber related economic benefits, such as the maple sugary and other agri-food production.

“We are recognized leaders in our country in terms of forest management, from being the very first to use geographic information system (GIS) technology, to our positive track record on forest fire prevention, and most recently, our historic doubling of protected lands and water,” said Holland.

The province’s conservation goals are being reached through several measures, including the implementation of conservation programs, establishing protected areas, and fostering partnerships with First Nations communities, private landowners, and other stakeholders.

Holland said the forest industry continues to evolve and utilize best management practices. The sector remains the province’s largest industry and contributes more than $1.5 billion to the economy annually.

“Thanks to the provincial government’s sustainable management practices, our abundant forests will be enjoyed now, and in the future,” said Holland.

The public is invited to ask questions and provide input at [email protected].