December 9, 2005

For immediate release

Province Transfers Wildlife Conservation Fund

Environment, Energy & Forestry

Support for wildlife enhancement efforts in PEI was strengthened today as administration of the Wildlife Conservation Fund was transferred to a committee representing those who directly contribute to the fund.

Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry Jamie Ballem and committee chair Mike McKenna took part in the official transfer of the fund from the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry to the Wildlife Conservation Fund Committee.

Government established the Wildlife Conservation Fund in 1998 to assist community-led projects which support wildlife and wildlife habitat. Money for the fund comes from a contribution that is made once a year by each licensed angler, hunter and trapper. Since it was established, the fund has contributed close to $1 million to enhance wildlife resources in Prince Edward Island. Each year, a broad range of projects are funded from stream enhancement work, tree planting and erosion control, to support for youth fishing, watershed planning and wildlife research and monitoring.

“The Wildlife Conservation Fund has made a tremendous contribution to protecting and enhancing our natural environment in Prince Edward Island. However, we believe it can be even more effective,” said Minister Ballem. “By having representatives of those who contribute to the fund, manage it and set the priorities, the Wildlife Conservation Fund will be much more accountable to those who support it.”

“The Wildlife Conservation Fund Committee is excited to take on the responsibility of overseeing the fund,” added Mr. McKenna. “Monies from the Wildlife Conservation Fund have supported some excellent projects in the past seven years and we look forward to the challenge of guiding the fund into the future. We will do our best to ensure that the contributions of hunters, trappers and anglers are put to best use and provide long-term benefits to wildlife and the environment.”

In the past, the Wildlife Conservation Fund was administered by the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry and overseen by an advisory committee, with representation from eight wildlife and conservation groups, which reviewed applications and recommended funding for conservation projects.

With Friday’s announcement, full administration of the fund is transferred to a restructured Wildlife Conservation Fund Committee. The new committee will have 10 members:
• three each from the angling and hunting communities;
• one member representing each of the following: the trapping community, watershed groups and non-consumptive users such as birdwatchers and hikers;
• and a representative from the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry.

Members of the inaugural Wildlife Conservation Fund Committee were nominated by wildlife and conservation groups and appointed by Executive Council to serve for periods of one to three years. They are:
• representing the angling community, Dave Biggar of Portage, Chris Lantz of Charlottetown, and Wayne Gairns of North Wiltshire;
• representing the hunting community, Karl McCormack of York, Jeff Stewart of Charlottetown, and Mr. McKenna, also of Charlottetown;
• representing trappers, Dwayne MacIntyre of Cardigan;
• representing non-consumptive users, Jeremy Styles of Seaview;
• representing watershed groups, Fred Cheverie of Fortune; and
• Rosanne MacFarlane, who is the department representative.

The committee will oversee all aspects of the Wildlife Conservation Fund – from promotions to making funding decisions, and tracking revenues and expenditures. They will submit an annual report to the department and arrange annual third party audits to ensure transparency and accountability of the funding process. The Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry will continue to collect the Wildlife Conservation Fund Licence fee so that it is convenient for people to purchase the licence at the same time they get their angling, hunting or trapping licence.

Mr. McKenna said the committee has developed a Terms of Reference and they expect to issue a call for funding applications early in the new year. The Island Nature Trust will serve as the day-to-day administrator of the Wildlife Conservation Fund, under the direction of the Wildlife Conservation Fund Committee, through a one-year, renewable contract.

October 3, 2005

For immediate release

Fall Frolic Run and Walk

Environment, Energy & Forestry

For Rick and Judy West of Charlottetown, the Provincial Forest Fall Frolic Run and Walk has become an important part of their commitment to physical fitness. They have participated in the race since its inception in 2001, because the challenge of running in a beautiful, yet demanding, forest environment is one of the highlights of their running year.

“Most race events feature paved roads or surfaced trails, but the Fall Frolic course combines flat and rough terrain with forests, fields, and woodland roads and this creates an interesting and challenging event,” said Judy West. “The colour of the leaves, the crisp fall air, and the fragrance of an Island forest add in their own special ingredients. These factors contribute something you just don’t find in other runs and walks and help to make the Fall Frolic such a great event for us.”

The 6 th annual Fall Frolic Run and Walk is scheduled for Saturday, October 8, 2005 at the New Harmony Demonstration Woodlot near Souris. This area was selected because the rolling hills north of Souris are some of PEI’s most beautiful forest lands and the local forest roads and trails are well suited to walking and running. Over the years, the Provincial Forest program has worked to improve the health and vigour of public forests, build proper forest roads, and establish walking and hiking trails. These factors combine to make this area a beautiful and exciting place for outdoor recreational events such as the Fall Frolic.

The Fall Frolic also raises money for a local charity. MacIntyre House in Souris is a group home which provides a safe and nurturing environment for mentally-challenged adults. The funds raised help MacIntyre House to buy equipment and support activities which benefit their residents.

Ms. West also stressed the enthusiasm and dedication of the Provincial Forest staff who organize and support the race.

“It’s a first-rate course and event due in large part to the efforts of these people and the sponsors,” she noted. “You could call it an ‘undiscovered’ jewel in PEI’s annual race calendar, but as attendance records indicate, more and more people are discovering it every year.”

While the Fall Frolic emphasizes the four- and 13-kilometre runs, people who enjoy walking are also encouraged to participate and enjoy the forests of New Harmony. Last year, almost 100 Islanders attended the event and by all accounts they felt it was a fun and worthwhile event. The Provincial Forest Fall Frolic will be held at 10 a.m. on October 8, 2005 with registration beginning at 9 a.m.

August 17, 2005

For immediate release

Department Releases New PEI Atlas

Environment, Energy & Forestry

Outdoor enthusiasts such as fly fishers, historians, bird-watchers, and others are excited about the recently released Prince Edward Island Atlas. Produced by the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry, the 2005 atlas builds on the success of the earlier PEI Road Atlas by providing users with more accurate and up-to-date information on many Island features.

“This new map book edition is based on aerial photography and ground analysis conducted for the 2000 Land Use Inventory and includes information on natural features such as forest cover, streams, wetlands, sand dunes, and land contours,” said Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry Jamie Ballem. “People can use it to find Scenic Heritage Roads, Confederation Trail access points, pioneer cemeteries, golf courses, demonstration woodlot trails, and much, much more. In turn, they will learn more about this unique and exciting place we call home.”

The map book was created by the department’s Resource Inventory and Modelling section using the latest in remote sensing and map-making technology. In order to provide as much information as possible, the book divides the Island into 43 separate pages, providing complete coverage from East Point to North Cape. Each map contains community and road names, route numbers for all primary and secondary roads, building locations, filling points for fire vehicles, pond locations, and a variety of other information people require for many different reasons.

During the 1990s, nearly six percent of the Island’s forest was lost due to permanent conversion to other uses such as agricultural production and blueberries. The new map book updates older forest cover outline information by removing the areas converted to other uses. However, it does not include information on species, harvest activity or other forest uses.

The Minister noted that most of Prince Edward Island’s land is privately owned. Therefore, he urged atlas users to obtain permission before crossing or entering any private lands.

While numbers are limited, the new book is available at the J. Frank Gaudet Tree Nursery on Upton Road or Island Information Service in Charlottetown, for $30 plus taxes. Copies of the older PEI Road Atlas are still available at the old price of $12.95 plus taxes.

For more information on the new Prince Edward Island Atlas, contact the Department of Environment, Energy, and Forestry at (902) 368-4700.

June 1, 2005

For immediate release

Minister Tables Forest Policy Report

Environment, Energy & Forestry

Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry Jamie Ballem tabled the Public Forest Council’s report “Woodlands Hold Our Island Together,” in the Legislature today. This report is the culmination of extensive consultations over the winter months and will help to determine government’s role in the management and conservation of public and private land forests across Prince Edward Island.

“The efforts and dedication of the Public Forest Council are reflected in this forward-looking document,” stated Minister Ballem. “They held 14 public and stakeholder meetings, and spent many evenings and weekends analyzing the comments and concerns offered by the 500 people who attended the meetings and the 90 formal papers and presentations which were submitted to the Council. I believe this report captures the depth of feeling Islanders have for our public and private forests, and the range of ideas and strategies they brought forward for Council and Government to consider.”

The report responds to the 2004 Forest Policy Discussion Paper by offering background information on some 13 subjects such as Restoring the Acadian Forest, Reconciling Economics and Aesthetics, Recognizing Non-timber Values, and Managing Public Forests. Council then prepared 20 recommendations to address these subject areas in a manner which recognizes a wide range of social, economic, and environmental concerns.

Public Forest Council Chair, Dr. Ian MacQuarrie, noted that many people felt current government policies did not adequately support those who employed good forest stewardship.

“Most people recognize that tree planting provides many benefits for our Island, but if those trees are planted and tended only to produce fibre, then maybe society should look at getting a broader range of returns for this investment,” noted Dr. MacQuarrie. “As well, we felt that a revised taxation system could be used as a tool to encourage more forest stewardship and that the number of species produced at the provincial tree nursery be increased to help alleviate the impacts of climate change.”

Council recognized that only 12 per cent of the Island forest is in public hands and urged government to protect this forest from sale or non-forest development. They also recommended that the public forest management philosophy change to reflect a broader range of forest management treatments and end goals.

“People see public forests as their forest and want to know that this resource will remain in public hands to be used for many different purposes by future generations,” stated Dr. MacQuarrie. “They also recognize that over the years public forests have helped to demonstrate a wide range of forest practices, and feel this role should be strengthened even further.”

Council also felt that government should pay more attention to forest education for landowners, school children and others, and promote the development and use of more non-timber forest products.

Minister Ballem thanked the hundreds of Islanders who took time to attend the meetings and offer their ideas and concerns.

“Government programming and services must strike a balance of environmental, societal and economic concerns which reflect the needs of the forest and the people who own and depend upon them,” indicated Minister Ballem. “We will examine how these recommendations can be implemented, what the potential implications are, and how landowners and the public will respond to the required changes. With the Council’s report as our guide, we will create a new Forest Policy which captures the vision and needs of Islanders from all walks of life.”

The Public Forest Council’s report is available by calling (902) 368-6450 or visiting the Council’s web site www.gov.pe.ca/go/PFCpolicyreport.

May 18, 2005

For immediate release

Take Your Family Fishing Victoria Day Weekend - ~ No licences required to go fishing May 20-23 ~

Environment, Energy & Forestry

Island families who are thinking about making angling part of their summer plans will have the chance to fish for free during the upcoming Take Your Family Fishing Weekend. No licences will be required to drop a fishing line in the many streams and ponds throughout the province from Friday, May 20, to Monday evening, May 23.

Speaking in the Provincial Legislature Friday, Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry Jamie Ballem said the annual Take Your Family Fishing Weekend is part of ongoing efforts to promote fishing as a fun and inexpensive family activity.

“Fishing is a great way for families to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and spend quality time together. The biggest challenge is getting people out that first time,” said Minister Ballem. “Take Your Family Fishing Weekend is designed to give families the added incentive to give fishing a try. Once they do, we believe they’ll be hooked.”

The Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry can help first-time anglers get started with maps of fishing locations across the province as well as Catch Fishing! booklets that offer tips on everything from buying fishing gear to cleaning and cooking your catch. For further information, call 368-4683 or visit the website at www.gov.pe.ca/go/familyfishing.

Several community groups across Prince Edward Island will also be hosting youth fishing events the holiday weekend.

“With community volunteers on hand to help bait hooks, offer pointers and answer questions, these events are a great way to introduce children to fishing,” said Minister Ballem. “I want to thank all of the volunteers for their time and effort, and most importantly, for passing on their love of fishing to young Islanders.”

Islanders are invited to take in one of the following events Saturday, May 21: Montague Fire Pond, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m., hosted by Montague Watershed Enhancement Co-op and Southeast Environmental Association; Mooney’s Pond in Peakes, 8 a.m. - 12 noon, hosted by Morell River Management Co-op; Pondside Park in Stratford, 8 a.m. - 12 noon, hosted by Central Queens Wildlife Federation; Hermitage Creek Pond (Charlottetown Rural), 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., hosted by Trout Unlimited Canada; and Hyde Pond in Cornwall, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., hosted by Cornwall Parks and Recreation.

On Sunday, May 22, Souris Wildlife Federation will host a youth fishing event at the Souris Wildlife Federation Pond in Rollo Bay (formerly Rollo Bay U-Fish), 1-5 p.m.

Fishing at all sites is open to youth ages 15 and under, and parents are welcome to come along to pick up some tips for their next family fishing outing. All events include a free barbecue.

While licences are not required during the Take Your Family Fishing Weekend, anglers are reminded that they must observe all regulations including catch limits. The regulations are in place to protect the future of the sport fishery and the environment. Anyone planning to go fishing the holiday weekend is encouraged to pick up a copy of the Angling Summary 2005. Copies are available at Access PEI sites and from vendors across the province, and it is online at www.gov.pe.ca/enveng

May 12, 2005

For immediate release

Giving Trees... Giving Hope

Environment, Energy & Forestry

The Canadian Breast Cancer Network (CBCN), along with the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry, will be hosting the second annual Giving Trees... Giving Hope event Saturday, May 21, to help raise funds for breast cancer awareness.

For a modest donation to the Canadian Breast Cancer Network, Islanders will have the opportunity to experience first-hand the enthusiasm and inspiration of transplanting native trees and shrubs as Anita Verreault enjoyed last year.

“Not only did I learn a lot at the site, but I got to take home two beautiful trees for my three- and five-year-old sons,” said Mrs. Verreault. “The trees named Dirt and Thorn will be tenderly cared for by Jaysen and Ethan for many years to come.”

The Giving Trees... Giving Hope event will be held at St. Patrick’s Road, Route 323 near St. Teresa. It starts at 8 a.m. and ends at 12 noon. Forestry staff and volunteers with the Canadian Breast Cancer Network will be on hand to offer tours and tips. Trees will be colour-coded by species and landscaping mulch will be provided by Georgetown Timber. The event goes rain or shine. All Islanders need to do is show up with a shovel and a pail, said Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry Jamie Ballem.

“We’re very pleased to partner with this survivor-directed group of volunteers,” said Minister Ballem. “We hope Islanders will take advantage of this opportunity to support a good cause and transplant the native trees and shrubs being offered in honour of the women and men who are affected by breast cancer.”

Prior to the Giving Trees... Giving Hope event, well-known guest speakers will talk about forests, wildlife, flora and fauna Thursday, May 19, 7-9 p.m., at the Cotton Centre in Stratford. Wildlife biologist Dan McAskill will give a talk about The Value of Native Trees and Shrubs to Island Wildlife; horticulturist David Carmichael will speak on Successful Transplanting and Care of Native Trees and Shrubs; and botanist Kate MacQuarrie will finish the evening with a talk on Identifying and Using Acadian Forest Plants.

For more information on the Giving Trees... Giving Hope event, please contact Catherine Mooney, Canadian Breast Cancer Network spokesperson, at 687-3246 or mooneys@pei.sympatico.ca; or Reg Conohan, Provincial Forest Program representative, at 961-7296 or rwconohan@gov.pe.ca.

April 13, 2005

For immediate release

ISLANDERS ENCOURAGED TO EXPLORE “WILD” PLACES ~ National Wildlife Celebrated April 10-16 ~

Environment, Energy & Forestry

Islanders are encouraged to explore PEI’s special “wild” places as they celebrate National Wildlife Week this week.

Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry Jamie Ballem said this year’s theme, Explore and Embrace a Special Wild Place, provides an excellent opportunity for young Islanders to gain a greater appreciation for wildlife and wildlife habitat.

“It not only invites them to discover the special places where they can enjoy nature, but also to learn about the wildlife that share those spaces, and the importance of protecting these wildlife resources,” said Minister Ballem.

“Wild spaces could be as close as the backyard bird feeder or in a city park, or they could be in our Provincial Forests, Wildlife Management Areas or the National Park. There are hundreds of beautiful natural areas to discover in Prince Edward Island.”

The Province has 18,900 hectares of public forest land and nine designated Wildlife Management Areas totalling 13,500 hectares. All of these properties are open to the public and many have walking, hiking and ski trails or offer other recreational opportunities such as bird watching or angling.

The Canadian Wildlife Federation sponsors National Wildlife Week in cooperation with federal, provincial, and territorial wildlife agencies. Each year, the federation prepares an educational package with lesson plans and resource materials focusing on the National Wildlife Week theme.

The Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry provides these National Wildlife Week kits to approximately 900 Island teachers for use in the classroom. As well, the department, in cooperation with the PEI Wildlife Federation, is once again sponsoring a poster contest for elementary school students on the National Wildlife Week theme. Cash prizes will be awarded at the school level and Island Nature Trust is providing the grand prizes - participation in the Adopt-an-Eagle program for the winners’ school class. About 600 students participated in last year’s contest with the grand prizes awarded to Gemma Dawn MacDonald, a student at Tracadie Cross Consolidated School, and Hailey Bell, a student at Southern Kings Consolidated School.

In declaring National Wildlife Week, Minister Ballem recognized the PEI Wildlife Federation and Island Nature Trust for their efforts in protecting wildlife and wildlife habitat in Prince Edward Island and extended special thanks to Island teachers who play an invaluable role in spreading the conservation message to young Islanders.

For more information on National Wildlife Week or Provincial Forests and Wildlife Management Areas, contact the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry at (902) 368-4683. Information on National Wildlife Week is also available on the Canadian Wildlife Federation web site at www.cwf-fcf.org.

March 9, 2005

For immediate release

Fund to Provide Increased Support for Wildlife Enhancement

Environment, Energy & Forestry

More resources will be available for wildlife enhancement in coming years with an increase in the Wildlife Conservation Fund Licence. At the same time, Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry Jamie Ballem said the province is looking at options to have conservation groups take a more active role in setting enhancement priorities and managing the fund.

The Wildlife Conservation Fund was introduced in 1998 to assist community-led projects which support wildlife and wildlife habitat, and support the Cardigan Fish Hatchery in its production of trout and salmon for public fisheries. Since its inception, the fund has contributed close to $1 million to enhance wildlife resources in Prince Edward Island. Projects have ranged from stream enhancement work, tree planting and erosion control, to support for youth fishing, watershed planning and wildlife research and monitoring.

Money for the fund comes from a contribution that is made once a year by each licensed angler, hunter and trapper. This year, the fee has increased to $20 (GST included) in response to concerns expressed by several community-based angling groups over the future of the enhancement program at the Cardigan Fish Hatchery and declining annual revenue available for community-led projects. The increase could result in an additional $75,000 funding each year.

“During the public discussion over the future of the hatchery, community groups made it clear that they see a need for increased enhancement. The Wildlife Conservation Fund is the best avenue to provide additional support because it ensures the dollars contributed by anglers, hunters and trappers go directly back to enhance the resource which they value so much,” said Minister Ballem.

Of the money collected in the Wildlife Conservation Fund each year, $60,000 has been allocated to the Cardigan Fish Hatchery. The Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry distributes the balance to wildlife conservation projects on the recommendation of an advisory committee with representation from each of the following groups: Ducks Unlimited Canada, Island Nature Trust, PEI Salmon Federation, PEI Trappers Association, Morell River Management Co-op, PEI Wildlife Federation, Natural History Society of Prince Edward Island, the department, and a community watershed group.

In the short term, Minister Ballem said he expects $60,000 will continue to be allocated to stock enhancement. However, the Minister said he wants the advisory committee, in consultation with community groups, to set priorities for enhancement and future funding.

“The Wildlife Conservation Fund has made a tremendous contribution to protecting and enhancing our natural environment in Prince Edward Island, and the advisory committee has done an excellent job in reviewing applications and making funding recommendations,” said Minister Ballem. “However, I believe we have an opportunity to strengthen the fund by having conservation groups take a more active role in setting priorities and possibly even managing the fund. I have asked staff to explore potential options to move administration of the Wildlife Conservation Fund outside the department and into the hands of the people who are directly contributing to the fund.”

In other licensing changes this year, Minister Ballem said the licence exemption for farmers and commercial fishers has been eliminated. The Minister noted this has been a longstanding request of licensed anglers. The cost of a trout licence for Island residents remains at $10 (GST included). Youth under age 16 do not need a licence to fish, and anglers 65 years of age and older are issued a courtesy licence at no cost.

Angling licences for the spring 2005 season will be available at vendors across the province in the next few weeks. Copies of the Wildlife Conservation Fund 2004/2005 Annual Report will be available at all licence vendors and is online at http://www.gov.pe.ca/go/wcf

February 23, 2005

For immediate release

Planning For The Future of The Recreational Fishery

Environment, Energy & Forestry

Recreational fishing enthusiasts from across the province will meet next week to work on a long-term plan to enhance fish habitat and encourage more Islanders to discover or rediscover the enjoyment of fishing.

About 60 people are expected to attend the one-day workshop, entitled The Recreational Fishery on Prince Edward Island: Challenges and Opportunities. It is sponsored by the Prince County Chapter of Trout Unlimited, with support from the PEI Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry and the Wildlife Conservation Fund.

“Through events such as this workshop and the annual Take Your Family Fishing Weekend in May, the Province continues to work with community groups to promote fishing as an easy, inexpensive and fun family activity,” said Minister Jamie Ballem. “I congratulate the Prince County Chapter of Trout Unlimited for providing this opportunity for Islanders who love fishing to come together and find ways to ensure that this Island tradition remains a strong part of our heritage,” said Minister Ballem.

Guest speaker at the workshop will be Jack Imhof, national biologist for Trout Unlimited Canada and former aquatic ecologist and research scientist with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.

“Mr. Imhof has a wealth of expertise in watershed science and fish habitat management,” noted Dave Biggar, president of the Prince County Chapter of Trout Unlimited. “We can certainly learn from his experience as we work to enhance the fishery in Prince Edward Island.”

Also on the agenda for the February 28 workshop, UPEI Biology Professor Daryl Guignion will do a presentation on key issues regarding fish habitat in PEI, and Mr. Biggar will highlight work on the Trout River as an example of river specific management. Participants will then work on a long-term strategy for recreational fisheries enhancement including setting priorities, developing new opportunities, planning, and monitoring and assessment.

Prince Edward Island sees several benefits from the recreational fishery. Angling contributes to healthy lifestyles and results in significant economic spinoffs, with $3.6 million in spending directly attributable to the recreational fishery. Anglers also play an important role in ensuring fish populations and fish habitat remain healthy - through volunteer work as well as licence purchases which provide funding for the Wildlife Conservation Fund. In 2004-2005, the Wildlife Conservation Fund provided more than $40,000 funding support for 35 community-led projects directed at enhancing stream conditions for fish and carrying out watershed planning activities.

For information on the recreational fishery workshop, contact Dave Biggar at (902) 859-2124 or Rosanne MacFarlane at (902) 368-6082.

February 22, 2005

For immediate release

Public Interest Leads to Additional Forest Policy Consultations

Environment, Energy & Forestry

The extraordinary level of public interest in the forest policy consultations has caused the Public Forest Council to schedule two additional sessions. These will be held Monday, February 28, at the Rodd Marina Inn in Montague and Wednesday, March 2, at the Farm Centre in Charlottetown. Both meetings will run 7 - 9 p.m.

“Council members have been truly impressed with the number and quality of presentations received so far,” said Council Chair Dr. Ian MacQuarrie. “With dozens of presentations and more than 100 people turning out in both Montague and Charlottetown, not everyone who wanted to speak was able to do so. The additional meetings will provide an opportunity for those who have not yet presented their views to do so, and allow time for discussion.”

The Public Forest Council has been hosting meetings across the province this winter to seek Islanders’ views about what should be included in a new forest policy for PEI. A Discussion Paper prepared as background for the meetings and copies of the presentations made to date are available at: www.gov.pe.ca/go/forestpolicy. Anyone wishing to make a formal presentation at either of the extra sessions is invited to book time by calling (902) 368-6450.

For more information, contact Ken Mayhew, Public Forest Council Secretary, at forestpolicy@gov.pe.ca or (902) 368-6450.

December 30, 2004
For immediate release
Public Forest Council Announces Forest Policy Consultation Dates

Environment, Energy & Forestry

Islanders can fill in the long winter months of 2005 by offering and discussing their ideas and concerns for the future of Island forests. On January 10, the Public Forest Council will host the first of six public meetings designed to gather Islanders’ input and ideas on what a new Forest Policy should support and promote.

Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry Jamie Ballem began the process of developing a new Forest Policy for Prince Edward Island with the release of the Forest Policy Discussion Paper in early December. At the same time, Minister Ballem announced that Government asked the Public Forest Council to lead the public consultations on the new policy.

“Throughout January and February, the Council will be holding public consultations in O’Leary, Wellington, Hunter River, Montague, Fortune, and Charlottetown,” said Chair Dr. Ian MacQuarrie. “We are gathering information and ideas on what government’s role should be in terms of the management and conservation of our public and private forests. This information will allow us to develop recommendations which will address peoples’ ideas and concerns in a practical, effective, and cost efficient manner.”

Dr. MacQuarrie noted that the Island’s current forest policy was released in 1987, and was largely centred on the development of a timber industry. Since that time, the industry has expanded, creating jobs and income for thousands of Islanders. In order to meet expanded market opportunities, the harvest industry mechanized and the processing sector increased its reliance on new technology. However, in some ways these were only short term economic benefits because the commercial softwood resource was based largely on old field white spruce stands which were not sustainable for a variety of reasons.

One area of particular concern to many Islanders is the permanent loss of forests through conversion to other uses. Over the 1990s, the Island’s forest area decreased by nearly six per cent due to increases in agricultural and blueberry production, as well as tourism and strip development. Demands on public forest lands also increased as society demanded new outdoor recreation opportunities, access to non-timber forest products, protection of sensitive or unique forest areas, and higher standards for the harvest of traditional forest products.

“These and other issues such as the increasing role of non-timber forest products and non-commodity values such as landscape and water quality are also of interest to many Islanders,” said Dr. MacQuarrie. “Hopefully we will be able to find the commonalities and develop recommendations which balance society’s many demands for our forest lands.”

The Public Forest Council will be hosting meetings January 10 at the O'Leary Lions Hall, January 17 at the Wellington Fire Hall, January 24 at the Hunter River Lions Hall, January 31 at the Rodd Marina Inn in Montague, February 8 at the Fortune Cove Community Hall, and February 15 at the Farm Centre in Charlottetown. All meetings will run from 7-9 p.m., and in case of storm delay, the Council will automatically reschedule the meetings for Wednesday of the same week. Dr. MacQuarrie indicated that the Council will hold additional meetings if demand warrants.

For more information on the Forest Policy development process, or to offer your ideas and suggestions, visit http://www.gov.pe.ca/go/forestpolicy .

December 30, 2004
For immediate release
Island Student's Artwork Featured in National Calendar

Island student Katie Mooney’s depiction of renewable energy sources has earned her a spot in a calendar being distributed nation-wide.

The daughter of Cathy and Charles Mooney of Souris West, Katie is the winner of the Prince Edward Island poster contest for the 2005 Energy and the Environment Calendar. Produced by Natural Resources Canada to promote wise energy use and a healthy environment, the calendar features one drawing from each province and territory. Approximately 135,000 calendars are distributed to households, schools and businesses across Canada.

The theme of the poster contest for the 2005 calendar was “Taking Action on Climate Change Through Wise Energy Use.” Katie’s artwork, entitled “Use Environmentally Friendly Power Sources,” features wind, solar and hydro power.

In announcing the poster contest winner, Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry Jamie Ballem said Katie’s drawing reflects PEI’s goal to encourage expansion of renewable energy resources. The Renewable Energy Act passed during the fall session of the legislative assembly improves the economic viability of renewable energy systems, and requires that public utilities obtain at least 15 per cent of electric energy from renewable energy sources by 2010, and that they have the capability to obtain the equivalent of 100 per cent of electric energy from renewable energy sources by 2015.

“With concerns about global climate change, there is a renewed focus around the world on cleaner energy and Prince Edward Island is well-positioned to be a leader in this new energy environment,” said Minister Ballem. “Katie’s drawing captures the vision of renewable energy resources powering our homes and communities.”

Katie was a Grade 8 student at Rollo Bay Consolidated School when she entered the Energy and the Environment Calendar Contest. Souris-Elmira MLA Andy Mooney visited the school earlier this year to present the contest prizes. In addition to having her drawing featured in the calendar, Katie received a laminated copy of her artwork as well as a backpack and several other items featuring the NRCat which is the energy efficiency mascot. The school also received a laminated copy of Katie’s artwork.

More than 150 Island students entered the contest for the 2005 Energy and the Environment Calendar. They all received participant prizes for their outstanding efforts. The poster contest provided an opportunity for the students to learn about the environmental benefits of energy efficiency, alternative or renewable energy sources such as wind power, and transportation alternatives such as hybrid gas/electric cars.

“The students had some excellent ideas for conserving energy and protecting our environment and they showed a high level of awareness of climate change issues,” said Minister Ballem. “I congratulate all the students and thank teachers for their efforts in helping young Islanders better understand this important issue.”

To learn more about energy, energy efficiency and climate change, Island students and teachers can visit the CalendarClub web site at http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/CalendarClub. Copies of the 2005 Energy and the Environment Calendar are now available at Access PEI sites throughout the province and from Island Information Service (1-800-236-5196).