Chatham-Kent council has tried to put in place efforts and policies to preserve local forests in past years, however, with the clear cutting of woodlots and forests continuing, there is movement to look at the issue once again to come up with an amicable situation that appeals to the general public and woodlot owners.
Aaron Hall has introduced a notice of motion to discuss the issue tonight.
“It’s looking at creating an incentive program with a goal of preserving woodlots in the community, and providing landowners with tangible and flexible options for being included in the program,” the Ward Five rep says. “There’s going to be a public consultation process as well as an analysis of best practices for incentive programs and woodlot preservation across Ontario.”
Hall’s motion also includes a four-month moratorium on clear cutting while the issue is looked into. He says researching best practices in other jurisdictions and the public feedback piece should give council new options that may not have been considered in the past.
Hall says protecting tree-cover is in everyone’s best interests.
“This was a topic that came up back in 2013 and was highly debated back then, but I’m confident this new approach is a responsible way to start the conversation once again. Especially with looking at a new incentive program, it’ll lead to a solution that is beneficial to all Chatham-Kent residents.”
If the motion is approved, staff will look into updating the municipality’s natural heritage policies and incentives for landowners to preserve their woodlots.
