OFIA's Members are Committed to Sustainable Forest Management
As stewards of Ontario’s forests, OFIA’s members are committed to the sustainable, responsible use of this renewable resource. Close to 90% of Ontario’s forests are publicly owned and known as Crown lands; 44% of these Crown lands are world-class, sustainably managed forests. By sustainably harvesting less than 0.5% of our Crown trees annually, Ontario’s forest sector is able to generate stable returns and directly employs over 143,000 Ontarians across the province.
Globally, deforestation is a major issue. However, Ontario’s forestry practices are proof of how a strong and sustainable forest industry actually fights deforestation and provides a model for the rest of the world. For every tree harvested in Ontario, three new trees are planted.
Sustainable forest management is a way of using and caring for forests in order to maintain environmental, social and economic values over time. According to the Ministry of Northern Development, Mining, Natural Resources and Forestry (MNDMNRF), sustainable forest management helps Ontario’s forests remain healthy and productive while supporting a strong forest industry and provide people with jobs and forest products. It also conserves biodiversity and enhances and protects wildlife habitat and watersheds. Sustainable forest management practices also help to adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change.