Prince Albert to host Forestry Expo

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Anyone interested in or involved in forestry in Saskatchewan should make plans to be in Prince Albert Aug. 8, 9 and 10, for the 2001 Saskatchewan Forestry Expo.

The trade show, to be held at the Prince Albert Exhibition Center, will have something to offer people at various levels in this growing business sector, from those who are considering entering the industry right to those who have been in it for a long time, but want to learn about new innovation in either technique or technology.

"Our main customers that we would like to see there are contractors and the people that are directly interested in the forestry business," said Lionel Letendre, chairman of this year's Expo.

"What we're trying to do is bring as many people in because the vendors, the people that supply equipment, are the ones that actually pay for the show, so we try to draw as big a crowd as we can of people who would purchase equipment and be involved in the forestry industry."

Organizers are also hoping the event will attract members of the public who want to learn more about forestry in the province.

"[People] want to know why we're clear cutting, why we're doing this regeneration process. We have seminar rooms already booked. People can go in, free of charge, and have a coffee and listen and ask questions, ask why this is being done, why that's being done. As far as learning goes, we've got seminars, we've got all sorts of people that could answer their questions about concerns they may have."

In recent years, growth in the forestry industry in Saskatchewan has included the formation of a number of First Nation owned lumber companies. Trevor Ives is associated with Meetoos Lumber, a Peter Ballantyne owned company, as well as with other Aboriginal lumber companies. He sees the value of the industry to the First Nation community.

"I think the forestry industry is one if the industries that probably holds the most potential for [First Nations] commercial base and developing," he said. "Everybody talks about jobs, but this provides more than jobs, it provides careers."

And how has the Forestry Expo assisted First Nation lumber companies?

"It's a terrific display of everything from contracting equipment to milling equipment, and it's a good place to get contacts in the industry," Ives said. "I think it's a good forum, I think there's lots of First Nations' taking advantage of it, and it provides good exposure to the industry."

For more information about the Saskatchewan Forestry Expo, check out the Expo Web site at www.saskforestryexpo.com, or call the Expo office at 763-3399.