Rural Newfoundland & Labrador has an abundance of natural resources. Especially when it comes to our forests. The earliest settlers made their homes from wood. Even pre-confederation, there has been a presence of logging and sawmills. Many fishers after summer season would work in the woods during the fall, cutting for “Bowaters” (later Abitibi-Bowater).
The forest industry in the rural Newfoundland was primarily focused on harvesting and transporting saw logs for pulpwood. Demand for newsprint worldwide declined significantly in recent years, adding pressure to an already troubled industry. The closure of a papermill in Stephenville, NL coupled with Kruger (Corner Brook Pulp and Paper) purchasing supplies from local markets at a lower cost, created turmoil for local logging contractors on the Great Northern Peninsula as their markets were limited.
The industry is overcoming a global recession. Our local market is diversifying. After reading the Northern Pen Newspaper this week, there is an article regarding wood pellets being produced in Roddickton, which are to start at the end of the month. To read the article check out: http://www.northernpen.ca/News/2011-03-14/article-2323632/Roddickton-pellet-plant-production-expected–to-start-by-the-end-of-month/1
There are other opportunities from our forest in terms of non-timber forest products (NTFPs), whether in the form of mushroom harvesting, wreathmaking, mulch production, furniture, eco/agri-tourism, neutraceuticals, value-added products, and community forests. Rural areas need revitalization. A conference on this topic is planned for April 12-15, 2011. See information below:
RURAL REVITALIZATION FROM OUR FORESTS conference, to be held at the Gros Morne Resort in St. Paul’s Newfoundland on April 12-15, 2011. The conference is being hosted by the Local Community Network, a community partnership initiative of the Model Forest of Newfoundland & Labrador’s Forest Communities Program, the RED Ochre Regional Board Inc., NORDIC Economic Development Corporation and the Humber Economic Development Board.
The purpose of the conference is to share knowledge, strategies and tools to assist forest dependent regions adjust to sector transitions in times of economic change. The intent is to bring individuals and organizations together to view our forests with a new perspective and discuss innovative solutions to promote economic growth and sustainability in their communities.
Plan to join us for this exciting event as we hear from:
- Guest Speakers from across Canada who specialize in Non-Timber Forest Product business and research;
- Value Added Manufacturers; Community Development Specialists;
- Government Forestry Officials;
- Organizations that focus on business development; many more…
Individuals and organizations can contribute to this important initiative in a number of ways, but most importantly through your attendance. If you fit into any of the following categories you may be able to take advantage of some of our special conference offerings.
STUDENT OR COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER: Call today to find out if you qualify for our CONFERENCE SUBSIDIES.
NTFP BUSINESS OWNER: Call and ask how you can attend, participate in out FOREST PRODUCTS TRADE SHOW or DONATE A PRODUCT to be showcased at the event.
POTENTIAL SPONSOR: Review our SPONSORSHIP BROCHURE for the different sponsorship options available. You may receive FREE ADVERTISING, FREE TRADE SHOW BOOTH, FREE CONFERENCE REGISTRATIONS and even the opportunity to PROVIDE A GUEST SPEAKER depending upon the package you choose.
For more information, please contact Kayla by email: kwillis@mfnl.ca or by phone: (709) 637-7300 Ex. 6 and she will be happy to assist you.
Information taken from www.mfnl.ca. Please visit the website for more information or to register for the conference.
Live Rural NL –
Christopher Mitchelmore
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