Notice sent to winners and losers of wood supply competition

Officials with the province's wood supply competition have started making decisions on the 115 applications for wood harvesting rights.  

Minister of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry Michael Gravelle said some of the successful applicants have been sent conditional offers.  Meanwhile, at least one company in Ignace has learned that its proposal was rejected, effectively killing their project.

Officials with the Far North Bio-Mass had hoped to build a wood pellet production plant in Ignace. The company's plans depended on approval of wood rights to the English River Forest area.

Partner Brian Tardiff received a letter from the ministry on Tuesday informing him that Far North's proposal was rejected. 

Tardiff said he is disappointed and added that no reasons were given for the rejection. Ignace Mayor Lee Kennard is also calling it a major disappointment, adding his community is in desperate need of economic development. 

Minister Gravelle said several successful applicants have recently been notified, and have 30 days to respond to the province.

The provincial wood supply competition was first announced by the McGuinty government back in November of 2009. 

It is the largest wood supply competition ever undertaken by the province and is designed to stimulate Ontario's forest industry.