Mike Holland: Protecting natural resources key to N.B.'s future

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New Brunswickers have made it clear that they value the conservation of the natural resources in our beautiful province.

When I entered politics in 2018, and helped write the government’s platform, we laid out aggressive conservation targets. We committed to doubling New Brunswick’s protected and conserved land and freshwater from 4.6 to 10 per cent, which was historic.

Those targets have been achieved in 2023, by making the largest land conservation gain in New Brunswick’s history. Before I was elected, there were 338,500 hectares of protected areas, and that number is now more than 723,000 hectares. That’s the equivalent of more than 1.35 million NFL football fields.

This success, which belongs to all New Brunswick citizens, would not have been possible without help from members of the public, Indigenous nations, scientists, conservation stakeholders, local community groups and outdoor clubs.

As the Minister of Natural Resources and Energy Development and Minister of Indigenous Affairs, finding a balance between conserving our resources while allowing natural resource industries to operate is not always an easy task. This is something I approach with great care and consideration.

In the summer of 2023, we were pleased to announce an additional 5,000 hectares of forested Crown land has been made available to maple syrup producers. The land may be used for expanding existing sugaries as well as future development.

With the world demand for maple syrup increasing, New Brunswick plays an important role in this unique commodity. Without the hardwood trees to produce sap, this wouldn’t be possible. This is a perfect example of how we can generate economic growth, while protecting natural habitats.

We cannot forget about the species that make their homes and habitats in our province. New Brunswick is home to more than 13,000 species, so improving that network of connected protected areas is one of the most important things we can do to sustain our native biodiversity. From moose to fish, and birds to insects, maintaining a flourishing environment for wildlife is crucial.

Knowing the status of species is an important step in ensuring their protection. By protecting this land, we are taking steps to ensure our landscape is resilient to climate change, and we are helping to ensure that future generations will be able to experience the beautiful natural areas that we have today.

Biodiversity conservation and identifying nature-based solutions to climate change will continue to be a priority. The government will consider future opportunities and has committed to setting a new protected areas target in 2024, as part of the renewed Climate Change Action Plan.

Some of us may never enjoy the shade of the trees we plant today, but we do it for future generations.

With patience and wisdom, we know the results will come. When I spend time with my grandson, I often reflect on the ways we can help positively shape our province for the years ahead.

It is an honour for me to serve in these roles, and everyday I am privileged to work with an incredible team as we do our part to grow, nurture, and protect our precious natural resources. I encourage all New Brunswickers and their families to take some time to enjoy our beautiful outdoors and all it has to offer.

Mike Holland is Minister of Natural Resources and Energy Development and Minister of Indigenous Affairs