Public input sought for Black Spruce Forest plan

A forestry company and the province are looking for public input on a decade-long plan to manage the Black Spruce Forest.

The 10-year plan deals with everything from wildlife habitat in the northern part of the 1-million hectare forest to harvesting issues in the south. AbitbiBowater planning superintendent Tom Ratz said the public consultation session, which will be held at the Victoria Inn Monday until 8 p.m., is a good way for the public to be heard.

"We’re hoping to get from the public their comments on where the allocations are," Ratz said.

Ratz added that most people are concerned with cutting near their homes, cottages and hunting grounds.

"The biggest one (concern) is where we cut it," said Ratz.

The Black Spruce Forest is north of Thunder Bay. It is an average sized forest area spanning from near the English River to Nipigon.