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By Jaryn Vecchio

Frustration Growing

Group looking to take legal action against Sask. Government over clearcutting in Boreal Forest

Feb 16, 2024 | 5:00 PM

A group of concerned citizens plans to take the Saskatchewan Government to court over the clearcutting they’re allowing in the Boreal Forest.

Cathy Sproule, who’s overseeing the legal action, told paNOW they feel like the province is allowing companies to work in areas that should be off-limits.

“Much of the clearcutting in recent years has moved into areas on the Boreal fringe where there are many communities with all kinds of tourist operations, outfitter operations, hunting, fishing, recreational uses, cultural uses.”

She explained clearcutting is now happening around Anglin Lake, Christopher Lake, the southern part of Prince Albert National Park, First Nations, and other areas.

They argue that the province, under the Forest Resources Management Act, must consider all interests in the forest and not just from companies doing the clearcutting.

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“The forest belongs to us, the people and a lot of the activities that are being permitted exclude other uses of the forest,” added Sproule.

An event is being held in Saskatoon on Saturday at St. George’s Seniors Centre. Sproule explained they’re holding it to spread awareness but also fundraise for the legal action.

The entire event will happen from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. with some activities being free and others costing money.

Whether the event is a success or not, Sproule wants to file their legal challenge sooner rather than later.

“We have a couple of lawyers helping us out. My hope is we’ll be in court [in March],” she said.

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Jaryn.Vecchio@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow