The provincial government is providing over $1.1 million to forestry projects that include Indigenous involvement.
The funding through the Forest Biomass Program supports projects at Constance Lake, Webequie and Kasabonika First Nations and a consortium of First Nations in the Fort Frances area.
Associate Minister of Forestry and Forest Products Kevin Holland says supporting Indigenous forestry projects is vital to the protection of the industry as a whole.
“Indigenous collaboration and partnerships are vital parts of the roadmap,” says Holland.
“And our government recognizes that Indigenous communities and their members have close relationships with the land and a strong and growing interest in sustainable forestry development.”
The communities to benefit include Constance Lake First Nation, which will use $250,000 to prepare plans for an adaptable energy system that converts forest biomass into green biofuel.
A similar amount to Apitipi Anicinapek Nation will investigate forestry opportunities and support workforce development through skills assessments and training workshops.
Webequie First Nation is getting $250,000 to assist in the planning of a 25-megawatt electricity facility powered by forest biomass.
Wanagekong Biiwega’iganan Clean Energy Corporation will use $250,000 to study biomass supply, complete permitting and build partnerships to support a planned bio-refinery in Fort Frances.
Kasabonika Lake First Nation receives $158,750 to plan a sustainable wood energy and sawmill program that will reduce reliance on diesel fuel.
“We reviewed all applications that come in from participants or those interested in participating in the program,” says Holland.
“It’s a review process that takes place, and it was really (about what) fit in with our roadmap and what the goals of the Ontario government are now in protecting our forestry sector moving forward.”
Holland says the projects combined will help create over 200 jobs.
