Released on November 6, 2013
Saskatchewan will provide up to $1.1 million over the next year as part of a partnership agreement with Alberta to help prevent the spread of the mountain pine beetle into northern forests. The two provinces will collaborate for a third year on the removal of beetle-infested trees in eastern Alberta.
“As we’ve seen, the mountain pine beetle has no regard for provincial boundaries, making a regional strategy essential,” Environment Minister Ken Cheveldayoff said. “The leading edge of the infestation is now at our doorstep, making this agreement with Alberta a critical measure in preventing the mountain pine beetle from becoming established in Saskatchewan’s northern pine forest.”
The mountain pine beetle outbreak has killed more than half of British Columbia's lodgepole pine forests. Seven years ago, the infestation crossed the Rocky Mountains, spreading halfway across Alberta. Research shows that jack pine forests in northern Saskatchewan and across Canada are also at risk.
Infested trees in key areas of northern Alberta – including the Swan Hills south of Slave Lake and the Marten Hills area to the northeast – will be cut down and burned over the winter to reduce beetle populations. Monitoring to track the beetle will also continue.
“We welcome and appreciate Saskatchewan’s continuing support for our fight against mountain pine beetle,” Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development Minister Diana McQueen said. “These infestations are the single most serious threat to the health of Canada’s northern pine forests. By working together, Alberta and Saskatchewan are ensuring we take the most aggressive steps possible to protect natural values in our two provinces, and across Canada.”
Despite 2012-13 being Alberta’s warmest-ever winter, beetle populations have not increased as predicted, and baited trees used for early detection reveal that the eastern edge of the infestation has not inched any closer toward Saskatchewan. Although the beetle exists in southwest Saskatchewan’s Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, the spread has not been detected in Saskatchewan’s northern forest.
“That the infestation has not expanded further east is good news for Saskatchewan and for the forest industry that makes an important contribution to our province’s economy,” Cheveldayoff said. “This agreement is an investment in our industry’s long-term sustainability and in the health of our forests.”
Through its 44 offices across the province, the Ministry of Environment provides science-based solutions, compliance and mitigation measures aimed at protecting the environment, safeguarding communities and helping to meet the challenges of economic growth.
-30-
For more information, contact:
Val Nicholson
Environment
Prince Albert
Phone: 306-953-2459
Email: val.nicholson@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-981-5645