Ontario Releases State of Ontario’s Natural Resources – Forests 2021

Press Release

Report confirms Ontario’s public forests are sustainably managed

September 22, 2021

TORONTO — The Ontario government has released its State of Ontario’s Natural Resources – Forests 2021 report, providing important information about the health and well-being of our forests, communities and industry. Ontario’s Crown Forest Sustainability Act requires the government to report on the state of Ontario’s forests at least once every five years. This is Ontario’s fifth report.

“Sustainable forest management is the foundation of our government’s forest sector strategy,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry and Indigenous Affairs. “We’re creating jobs and supporting economic growth while protecting our natural resources for future generations.”

The 2021 report provides the results of 21 indicators specific to forest condition and forest management, including:

• Forest composition, growth, wildlife habitat and forest carbon
• Harvest and regeneration
• Public engagement and Indigenous involvement in forest management planning
• Forest sector employment and resource revenue sharing with Indigenous communities
• Forest sector products and exports
• Forest certification, audits and compliance

These indicators show that Ontario’s forest policy framework ensures resilient and well-maintained forest resources, protecting the environment and biodiversity of its managed forests.

“This report demonstrates that Ontario’s forest management plan is working and that wood harvested is sustainably sourced, and our forests continue to be renewed,” said Minister Rickford. “We will continue to work with Indigenous communities, stakeholders and the public to unlock the potential of Ontario’s forests through sustainable forest management practices.”

The Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry is responsible for managing public forests so that they remain healthy and continue to provide economic, environmental and social benefits to the people of Ontario.

The State of Ontario’s Natural Resources – Forests 2021 report can be accessed online: https://www.ontario.ca/page/state-ontarios-natural-resources-forest-2021

Quick Facts

• Forestry was deemed an essential industry during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing essential forest products for hygiene, food, medical supplies and packaging and shipping materials.
• The forest sector generated $17.6 billion in revenue from the sale of manufactured goods and services in 2019 and supported approximately 143,000 direct and indirect jobs in 2020.
• Wood from Ontario’s Crown forests is sustainably sourced and renewed after harvest. Wood is a renewable resource and a sustainable – and biodegradable – alternative to single-use plastics.

Additional Resources

• State of Ontario’s Natural Resources – Forests 2021
• Sustainable Growth: Ontario’s Forest Sector Strategy

Related Topics

Environment and Energy

Learn more about how Ontario protects and restores wildlife and the environment. Includes information on conservation and the electricity system. Learn more

Travel and Recreation

Learn more about hunting and fishing, provincial parks, festivals and events, and visiting Ontario. Learn more

Media Contacts

Media Desk
Communications Services Branch
416-314-2106
MediaDesk.MNRF@ontario.ca

Curtis Lindsay
Minister’s Office
Curtis.Lindsay@ontario.ca

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