Josée Rioux-Walker

Our forests still have untapped potential. In this segment, two experts in the field, Dean Stephenson, a forest technician and maple producer, and André Landry, a forest engineer and maple producer, remind us that certain forest management choices limit both economic returns and environmental benefits. And yet, a better approach is possible. It is entirely achievable to reconcile environmental protection, the forest industry, and the maple syrup industry.

What if the economic future of our regions lies in our maple forests? For the past 20 years, maple syrup production has been a key driver of growth in New Brunswick. Now is the time to give it even greater space.

Across New Brunswick, maple producers are ready to invest, develop new sugar bushes, and generate economic activity in our rural regions. Yet many projects remain on hold due to insufficient access to Crown land. The maple potential of our province is immense. Granting access to additional hectares would support entrepreneurship, create jobs, and contribute to the economic vitality of many communities.