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Ontario releases State of Ontario’s Natural Resources – Forests 2021 report

The Ontario government’s State of Ontario’s Natural Resources – Forests 2021 report is out. The report outlines the health and well-being of the province’s forests, communities and industry.

As per the requirements of Ontario’s Crown Forest Sustainability Act, the provincial government needs to report on the state of the forests at least once every five years. This is the fifth such report.

“Sustainable forest management is the foundation of our government’s forest sector strategy,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry and Indigenous Affairs. “We’re creating jobs and supporting economic growth while protecting our natural resources for future generations.”

The 2021 report provides the results of 21 indicators specific to forest condition and forest management, including:

• Forest composition, growth, wildlife habitat and forest carbon
• Harvest and regeneration
• Public engagement and Indigenous involvement in forest management planning
• Forest sector employment and resource revenue sharing with Indigenous communities
• Forest sector products and exports
• Forest certification, audits and compliance

Ontario’s forest policy framework is designed to ensure that the province has resilient and well-maintained forest resources, and it protects the environment and biodiversity of its managed forests. The indicators in the report showcase these points.

“This report demonstrates that Ontario’s forest management plan is working and that wood harvested is sustainably sourced, and our forests continue to be renewed,” said Minister Rickford. “We will continue to work with Indigenous communities, stakeholders and the public to unlock the potential of Ontario’s forests through sustainable forest management practices.”

The State of Ontario’s Natural Resources – Forests 2021 report can be accessed online: https://www.ontario.ca/page/state-ontarios-natural-resources-forest-2021