The province says it wants to balance " habitat protection of wildlife species" while creating opportunities, and is creating an independent, expert panel "to provide advice on a long-term solution for species at risk in Ontario's managed Crown forests."
It says the panel would include representatives from northern municipalities, Indigenous leaders, scientists and forestry practitioners.
"The independent, expert panel will work to identify innovative local approaches and potential pilot projects for consideration as part of the development of the province's long-term approach to protecting species at risk and their habitat while minimizing impacts to the forest industry," says a ministry news release.
The province is also proposing to extend the current regulatory approach to Crown forestry for a two year timeframe.
" Our government has listened to the concerns of northern municipalities, Indigenous communities, environmental organizations and the forest industry – and we want to find a solution which strikes the right balance as we deal with the negative effects of climate change," says Nathalie Des Rosiers, Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry. "This new proposal, with a two year regulation extension for forestry, will allow us to continue to uphold Ontario’s high standards of sustainable forest management and protection for species at risk while we find a solution that is right for Ontario."
