|
|
BIODIVERSITY AND LAND USEHow can sustainable forestry practices ensure the appropriate level of biodiversity is maintained in Nova Scotia's forests? The issue of biodiversity is one for which the final chapter will never be written. Each day it seems there is new information, and new scientific pathways to follow in order to make continuous improvements. The key for the forest industry is to ensure we are maintaining diversity on a landscape basis. If the overall diversity of landscape is threatened, so will the next level, which is biodiversity (habitat). Our industry is doing very well on a landscape basis in maintaining a diversity of habitats. If a block of land within a larger landscape is harvested, the overall landscape provides the continuity of habitat while the site regenerates. Further, there has never been more done to protect habitat within and near the harvest block as we do today with green belts, wildlife habitat and watercourse protection and legacy/wildlife clumps. In addition, a significant amount of land will never be harvested as it is considered "non productive" and includes special areas such as wetlands. There is an acceptance of the provincial land classification system of eco-regions that is being used as a guide to maintaining diversity. This system is being integrated into many company's computer mapping and forest management systems. The provincial special places network and voluntary conservation efforts by the forest industry and individuals add some additional pieces to the biodiversity that is nature's quilt work. The challenge is to maintain an acceptable level of diversity on a site-by site basis. Clearcutting may always be with us as it has scientific merit, sound economic impacts but, within this context, we are more aware of special habitat requirements. More natural shapes of cuts, smaller cuts and specific measures based on the local situations are evolving. At the same time, we believe that more can be done. Our association members, which include businesses and individuals that are responsible for the management in excess of three million acres of Nova Scotia forestland. As a result, we are well positioned to increase biodiversity and habitat awareness amongst our members. Fortunately, the larger landowners within the association are either certified or working to become certified under Sustainable Forestry Management systems. Biodiversity management programs are key to becoming certified. The challenge however is reaching the broader spectrum of landowners. We believe strongly that this is a significant first step in the direction of improved awareness program for all landowners. Our industry and indeed our association will continue to work with government and other stakeholders and contribute to this never ending process of increasing our biodiversity of our forests. On the issue of multiple land use uses, the forest industry is doing very well in co-operating with a variety of non-forestry land users. Forestlands are generally open to all forest users. We do try to accommodate and understand the values of other sectors. There are also opportunities for our industry to be active in working with local environmental organizations and community members on issues like forest research, and protection of certain lands and species. We have a finite land base. There are many people competing to use it. All have their own philosophies of land use and the challenge is to find a balance as our population base grows. It can be a painful process but we are all hopeful that the outcome will be positive for all interest groups.
|
|
