Oct 15, 2014

Logging Update

Recent communication from Vermilion Forest Management.... 

Goulard Lumber plans on starting to work on access roads (upgrading existing roads) West of Bassfin Lake and towards lake Wanapitei. This work may begin as early as next week with logging to follow. Most of the area is affected by timing restrictions (no cutting in summer within 1 km of the lakes)  so the amount of work to be done before Thanksgiving in this area is limited. It is expected the block will be completed before Winter sets in.

For the previously logged section along Matagamasi Road, when Goulard operated there a few years ago, the 30m modified reserve along the road was left almost all intact even though some harvesting down to 12 square metres basal area is permitted. Goulard had tried at the time to do some modified logging but it proved to be too time consuming and not economically feasible with the equipment on hand. There has been renewed interest in harvesting these "strips" along the road. A contractor will be brought in with some specialized equipment to cut these modified areas down to 12 square metres as permitted. This work may begin as early as later this week.

Goulard will also be cutting along the road in the vicinity of the dump. The portage trail between McLaren Creek and Klondike Bay will have a no-cut buffer. 
This area will also be completed by late Fall - early Winter.

These logging areas are part of the 5 year plan that ends March 31st, 2015.  If you have concerns, contact KEWatch@gmail.com, or call VFM at 705-560-6363.

We will arrange an in the field visit with the company in the coming weeks.  Please let KEW know if you would like to attend.