April 29, 2013
First-in-Canada Legislation to be Introduced that would Protect, Recognize Manitoba's Heritage Trees: Mackintosh
– – –Manitobans Invited to Nominate Trees of Environmental, Cultural, Historic Importance
The province will introduce first-in-Canada legislation that would create a provincial heritage tree program in partnership with the Manitoba Forestry to recognize and protect trees that have environmental, cultural, social and historic importance to all Manitobans, Conservation and Water Stewardship Minister Gord Mackintosh announced today.
“All trees are an important part of our communities, but some are exceptional and irreplaceable, and deserve stronger protection,” said Mackintosh. “This new initiative will allow Manitobans to nominate a tree or group of trees so future generations can also enjoy their beauty and importance.”
The program would be created by amendments to the Forest Health Protection Act including additional protection measures for designated heritage trees located on Crown land to prevent their removal for reasons other than health or safety. In addition to the new proposed protection, the department would develop an online and physical plaque program and seek private sponsor funding opportunities for designated trees.
The new legislation would establish a committee to develop criteria, review applications and make recommendations on trees that could be designated as heritage trees. The new program would be managed in co-operation with the Manitoba Forestry Association.
“Whether natural or planted, there are many exceptional trees in the province that stand out in the landscape,” said Patricia Pohrebniuk, executive director of the Manitoba Forestry Association. “We are pleased to work with the province to build on our ongoing heritage trees program and encourage Manitobans to become more aware of and interested in trees.”
All potentially significant trees could be considered for nomination. The designation process would consider any landowner concerns before a tree receives heritage tree status.
The minister noted the program would provide protection of significant trees on Crown land and also would promote the protection of trees on municipal or private land through bylaws or caveats the landowners choose to put in place.
“Whether in urban or rural areas, we must all work together to protect our forests and trees for the future,” said Mackintosh. “This program will engage Manitobans and encourage them to look at forests in new ways.”
The minister noted the introduction of the legislation meets a commitment to create a heritage tree program made in TomorrowNow – Manitoba’s Green Plan, the province’s eight-year strategic plan for protecting the environment while ensuring a prosperous and environmentally conscious economy.
For more information on TomorrowNow, visit: www.gov.mb.ca/conservation/tomorrownowgreenplan/.
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