56 | Part of the solution, not the problem Recent storms and their aftermath have reignited public debate about the role of forestry in New Zealand’s land use. Recent storms and their aftermath have reignited public debate about the role of forestry in New Zealand’s land use. While these conversations are important, some of the narratives dominating headlines have overlooked the reality on the ground. Forestry and particularly pine plantations are portrayed by some as environmental liabilities and economic missteps. At Forest Enterprises Limited, a long- standing licensed forestry investment manager, we welcome scrutiny. But we also believe public opinion must be shaped by evidence, not anecdote and certainly not fear. Setting the Record Straight on Slash and Storm Damage Forestry slash, the leftover branches and woody material after harvesting have been a focus of media scrutiny, especially after Cyclone Gabrielle. But credible, independent studies paint a far more nuanced picture. Slash shouldn’t be confused with woody debris. Studies following Cyclone Gabrielle found that in Hawke’s Bay only 4 per cent of woody debris was slash and in Gisborne less than 5 per cent was slash. The balance came from non-forestry sources - wilding pines, native trees and riparian vegetation. Slash: A Necessary Part of the Forest Ecosystem. Far from being a waste product, slash when well-managed, contributes positively to forest health. It regulates soil temperature and moisture, supports micro-habitats for biodiversity and gradually returns nutrients to the soil. Slash also helps to prevent erosion in the period between harvest and replanting. At Forest Enterprises, we take a proactive and evidence-based approach to slash and debris management. This means that our forests are more resilient in severe weather events. Responsible Forestry Begins with Responsible Land Use. Contrary to some commentary, forestry is not swallowing up “prime farmland.” Most of our plantation forests are on land already suited to forestry, often second rotation trees. These are not the fertile plains used for cropping or intensive livestock farming but rather hill country where well- managed forests protect against erosion and enhance biodiversity. Yet the Climate Change Response (Emissions Trading Scheme – Forestry Conversion) Amendment Bill will introduce significant restrictions on establishment of forests within the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS). Production forests planted on moderate to low productivity farmland, well suited to production forestry, are being restricted from registration in the ETS. This is unwarranted because as climate change intensifies, these changes weaken carbon capture incentives - precisely when New Zealand needs forestry to meet climate targets. Trees that sequester carbon help future-proof many vital industries in New Zealand. The trees can also provide stable carbon income under the ETS. Responsible forestry can and does sit alongside pastoral farming in a complementary role –stabilising marginal land, supporting carbon goals and contributing to diversified rural economies. Jobs, Communities and Regional Development Forestry is not just about trees – it’s about people. Forestry is one of the largest local employers. It supports jobs in planting, silviculture, roading, harvesting, transport, and processing. The income it injects into rural Forest Enterprises FORESTRY MCCARTHY TRANSPORT ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT FOREST ENTERPRISES Mike McCarthy Mob: 027 750 9425 Mike@mccarthytransport.co.nz www.mccarthytransport.co.nz • Earthmoving • Cartage • Residential • Drainage • Horse Arenas • Forestry Roading • Quarry & Top Soil Supplies 0800 DIGGING contact@kieranoliver.co.nz 307 High Street, Solway, Masterton 5810 Our team offers a friendly, professional, and efficient service, delivering the highest quality finish at a competitive price. Being an owner/operator, you will be dealing directly with management throughout the whole job from quote to completion. We are based in Masterton, but we offer our services throughout the Wairarapa and Wellington Region.
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