If you search natural resources on You Tube there is a video of the present Minister of Natural Resources, Donna Cansfield planting trees. Ironic, considering that her legacy as the Minister of the MNR will be that she was the Minister who allowed forestry to be removed from the MNR.

By separating the management of forestry from the rest of the natural ecosystem Dalton McGinty and his Liberal government of Ontario have made a move that is not scientifically or logically sane. Scientifically, forestry management is integral to the management of all the natural resources in the natural ecosystem. Our natural resources are interdependent and should be managed as such. The way the forests are managed affects the fish, animals, birds, land and the water. Properly managed forest cutting for example can be used as a moose management strategy. Improper cutting can raise water temperature or pollute water and destroy fish stocks.

Giving forestry to the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines with the mandate according to the Deputy Minister of stimulating it back to some form of profitability is nothing more than an excuse to rape the forest resource. Accountability to the public for forest management has been a serious concern with the MNR in Northern Ontario but at least there is legislation in place to allow for public involvement.  The MNR’s public involvement process has been far from perfect so why would the Liberals give forestry to MNDM a Ministry with an even more dubious record of allowing public involvement.

When the North American economy recovers demand for wood products will increase and the forestry industry will recover. If there has been incompetence in the MNR’s forest management then why wasn’t there a Minister of Natural Resources appointed capable of doing the job and correcting the problems? Where is the wisdom in creating a whole new bureaucracy to manage the forest? Why are the politicians of Ontario bent on destroying the Ministry of Natural Resources?

For all of us who use and value the natural resources of Northern Ontario it is time to stand up and be counted. A viable MNR, accountable to the public is the best way to protect our natural resources. Act before our natural resources go from the fry pan into the fire.

Gaye Smith
Former Chairman  -  Temagami Stewardship Council