The Friends of Temagami are pleased with an agreement that protects the
Sturgeon River Provincial Park while allowing forestry operations to continue in
the Sudbury Forest.
Early in 2009, a new bridge was proposed for the last roadless stretch of the
Sturgeon River. Large clearcuts were also planned adjacent to the Park.
Working with Vermillion Forest Management, the Ministry of Natural Resources,
and Northwatch, Friends of Temagami was able to ensure that no new bridge
would cross the Sturgeon River. We were also able to significantly reduce
clearcutting adjacent to the park. These compromises were made solely through
discussion and dialogue, not confrontation and protest.
Friends of Temagami President Alex Broadbent said, “We are encouraged by this
outcome. The time and effort expended by both sides to reach this agreement
signals a new relationship between the forest industry and environmentalists in
Northeastern Ontario.”
The Sturgeon River Provincial Park protects 33.5 km2 of the Sturgeon River
watershed, 60 km northeast of Sudbury. Historically, the river was a travel route
for First Nations and loggers. Today, the waterway park is popular with
whitewater canoe trippers and hikers. The park features many waterfalls,
campsites, and scenic lookouts. It is the main inflow to Lake Nipissing.
Friends of Temagami is a Northern Ontario-based, all-volunteer environmental
organization. Our aim is to conserve wilderness and promote quiet recreation
across the greater Temagami region.
