From the Forest to the Mill

Lumber manufacturing is a process that begins well before the Mill. Our woodlands managers and silviculturists in consultation with government and First Nations plan for harvesting and reforestation over a 100-year time frame. Planning in the near (1 – 5 years) and medium (5 -15 years) occurs with the requirements of this longer-term plan in mind. This long-view aligns with the Alberta forest industry’s emphasis on sustainable practices and seeks to emulate the typical life cycle of conifer.

As part of this planning process an annual allowable cut (AAC) is calculated by the Alberta government for each Forest Management Unit in the Province. The AAC conveys the amount of wood that can be harvested in the Province within a one-year period to ensure its sustainability. In doing this they set aside a portion of the AAC for natural disturbances such as fire, insect damage, and wind damage. Once the AAC is determined, the timber can be allocated to different companies. There is a tenure agreement in place between the Alberta government, on behalf of Albertans, and forestry companies. These agreements details both the rights and responsibilities of the rights holders as stewards of this resource. The agreement that allows Northland Forest Products Ltd. to harvest timber resources in the province is known as a quota.

As a manufacturer we embrace our role as stewards of Alberta’s forests. Most of our lumber is harvested from crown lands. This means, that while we actively manage the timber and forestry resources, the land and forests are owned by Albertans. The Alberta government safeguards these resources on behalf of Albertans, administers the rights of companies to utilize these resources and ensures an appropriate level of stewardship from rights holders so that the value to our communities, economy and planet are all maintained.