Thank you for the…

Thank you for the opportunity to provide comments on ERO 026-0109.

I appreciate the Province's efforts to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of forest management in Ontario. However, I have concerns that the proposed changes could result in Sustainable Forest Licences (SFLs) becoming responsible for increasingly large and complex management areas, potentially creating a more generalized approach to forest management.

In my view, the Nipissing Forest is one of Ontario's most diverse forests, containing a wide range of ecological features, wildlife habitats, recreational values, Indigenous interests, tourism operations, and forest industry requirements. This diversity requires careful planning, local knowledge, and the ability to respond quickly to changing forest conditions, market demands, forest health issues, and operational challenges.

I am concerned that expanding responsibilities without ensuring adequate local capacity and resources could reduce the level of attention given to individual forests. Forest management is most effective when managers have sufficient time and resources to understand local conditions and adapt management practices accordingly. A larger administrative structure may risk creating a "one-size-fits-all" approach that does not fully recognize the unique characteristics and needs of forests such as the Nipissing Forest.

I encourage the Ministry to ensure that any changes to the SFL system maintain strong local decision-making, adequate staffing levels, and the flexibility required to respond quickly to forest conditions, market opportunities, and emerging issues. The long-term sustainability of Ontario's forests depends on management approaches that recognize and support the unique ecological and economic characteristics of each forest.

Thank you for considering my comments.

Sincerely,

Steve Chenier