Research Indispensable to Sound Forest Management
The ministère des Ressources naturelles (MRN) is responsible for managing public forests so as to ensure their perpetuation and preserve their multiple uses. To properly carry out this mandate, the MRN must have a clear idea of the ecological characteristics of both the various forest types and the species that grow in them, especially their productivity and quality.
Forest managers must also be familiar with the needs of wildlife, in terms of habitat, and with the restrictions arising from the need to safeguard the moisture balance as well as the quality of lakes and watercourses. Finally, they must be aware of the needs of other forest users so that they can take them into account when planning and carrying out forest management work.
In addition, forests must be protected from fire, diseases and insects, which may cause considerable economic losses. Forest managers must be informed of the most appropriate measures for guarding against such occurrences and minimizing any resulting damage.
Finally, since it will always be necessary to grow seedlings in nurseries in order to reforest abandoned farmland, fill gaps in naturally regenerated areas and battle against the decline of certain forest types, forest managers must also be familiar with these activities.
The MRN has already amassed considerable knowledge on forest ecology and the silvicultural methods most appropriate for the various forest types. It has also acquired vast expertise in preventing and combating fire and epidemics as well as in the cultivation of high-quality seedlings and the production of superior genetic strains. With the cooperation of other government departments, it has also broadened its understanding of the role of the forest as a wildlife habitat, a regulator of the water regime and a recreation area.
Nevertheless, forest managers still have a lot to learn about the real effects of silvicultural treatments and plantations on the production of wood, the prevention of epidemics, infestations and fire, the water regime, wildlife habitats and biodiversity. Moreover, little is known about the impact of climatic disturbances and atmospheric pollution on forests. There is also much work to be done to optimize the use of ligneous matter, diversify wood-based products and adapt silviculture and harvesting equipment to the constraints of the site.
The MRN has a substantial annual research and development budget, a team of experienced researchers and the active support of numerous universities and consulting firms. In the areas of logging and wood processing, it works closely with the industry to implement large-scale research programs. Finally, the MRN ensures the rapid dissemination of research findings through publications, symposiums, thematic exhibitions, etc.
