September 27, 2024

Tracadie, NB –  Today, the Green Party proudly announced its sustainable forestry plan, emphasizing First Nations’ partnerships, community engagement and ecological practices. Joined by local advocate Serge Brideau, the plan aims to reshape forestry practices on Crown land in New Brunswick for the benefit of both the environment and local communities, through shared decision-making with First Nations.

“Monday is Truth and Reconciliation Day. An  important part of Truth and Reconciliation is action,” stated Green Party Leader David Coon. “A Green government would negotiate agreements with the three First Nations in New Brunswick to implement shared decision-making for Crown lands. Our priorities for Crown land use are to safeguard the ecological integrity of the forests and institute community-based management in the vicinity of First Nations communities and municipalities.”

The Green Party’s sustainable forestry plan for Crown lands  includes:

• Shared Decision-Making with First Nations
• Ending Herbicide Spraying: The use of glyphosate and other herbicides on Crown land will cease.
• Halting Clearcutting: Large-scale clearcutting will be prohibited, fostering healthier and more diverse forests that will support a more diverse forest-based economy.
• Supporting Private Woodlot Owners: The plan aims to restore private woodlots as the primary source of wood supply, ensuring fair compensation and promoting rural economic sustainability 
• Community-Based Management: Management of Crown land  adjacent to communities will be carried out locally, engaging citizens and providing community benefits. 

“Communities like Tracadie have innovative ideas for the use of local Crown lands, particularly the former firing range, beyond simplistic  economic exploitation, which the current government is doing,” said Coon. “This plan engages First Nations, empowers local voices and prioritizes ecological sustainability and community benefits from forest management.”

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