Clearcutting is putting tourism at risk says President of Nova Scotia Tourism Industry Association

“Nova Scotia is blessed with incredible natural beauty…[but] in many areas, there has been a total abdication of responsibility around clearcutting targets and forestry management practices, including herbicide and pesticide spraying. As people seek out authentic and nature-based experiences, why are we putting at risk both our healthy and sustainable forests and Nova Scotia’s tourism”.

So asks Darlene Grant Fiander, president, Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia in an Op-ed in the Chronicle Herald (Sep 21, 2017).

Good question, and hardly the first time it has been asked.

In Sept., 2001, the N.S. Legislature Standing Committee on Resources heard from Jennifer Archibald of the Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia. Said Jennifer:

The billion dollar tourism industry in Nova Scotia depends on a healthy environment, the availability of fresh air, clean water and green space influence a traveller’s choice on where to stay, eat, relax and play. The perception of Nova Scotia as a protectorate and responsible province in the care of wild lands and wildlife has tremendous value in making this province a destination of choice. Visitors come to Nova Scotia because of our hospitality, our unspoiled seacoasts, our green forests and our abundant wildlife. The effect of clear-cutting all but minimal buffer zones on the aesthetics of the province’s view planes and vista is obvious to all. One of the hidden harms is the effect on freshwater fishing, adventure tourism and all nature-based activities. We need a plan, we need legislation and we need to protect our inheritance to ensure we leave a legacy for the future. That is our responsibility…the tourism industry must be at the table in developing long-range management plans for public lands.

Links

A Tourism Strategy for Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia Tourist Agency, 2013

VALUING OUR FORESTS – BEYOND CLEAR CUTTING: A TOURISM PERSPECTIVE
Presentation to Forestry Alliance by Tourism Industry Association Nova Scotia May 10, 2000

Wentworth Valley on the front lines of tourism versus clearcutting in Nova Scotia
Post on this website, June 23, 2017.

A Train Runs Through It – Saltscapes Magazine
“1872…Suddenly the train swept around a curve and exposed to our view a scene of grandeur and beauty unequalled by any other on the line… ” Since the 1930s, blueberry crops have reduced the coverage of the forest in the valley…
“Today, Via Rail trains run through the valley 12 times weekly. Recent clear cutting for the lumber industry has also altered the landscape that once impressed William Fielding and the Intercolonial writers. Although much of Wentworth’s beauty is preserved to date, one can’t help but wonder: will the landscape of the future inspire poetic expression? ”