The Nova Scotia Forestry Innovation Transition Trust is investing $1.8 million to help private landowners and forest contractors improve access to markets, reduce wildfire risks and support sustainable management across the province.
Announced on November 20, 2025, the funding targets two key priorities: the development of access roads on private woodlots and the utilization of low-grade wood fibre that would otherwise be left unused.
Building Infrastructure and Market Access
Forest Nova Scotia will receive $1 million over two years to support the construction and maintenance of access roads. The province says this infrastructure will help woodlot owners harvest more efficiently, support selective cutting and improve access for contractors and emergency responders during wildfires.
“For over a year, Forest Nova Scotia has been advocating for additional funding for the road program for our members,” said Todd Burgess, Executive Director of Forest Nova Scotia. “Given the recent fires, funding like this is crucial to help improve access for contractors, first responders and service providers.”
Supporting Fibre Utilization
The Association for Sustainable Forestry will receive $800,000 over the next year to help landowners and contractors develop new markets and more efficient ways of harvesting, transporting and selling low-grade fibre. Removing this material from the forest floor creates economic value while reducing wildfire risk.
Investing in Industry Transition
Since its launch in 2020, the Forestry Innovation Transition Trust has committed more than $50 million to projects supporting new products, business models and ecological services within the forestry sector.
“These projects will help bring more high-quality products to market and strengthen this important sector of our economy,” said Rosalind Penfound, Chair of the Forestry Innovation Transition Trust.
A Key Sector for Nova Scotia
Forestry remains a major contributor to the provincial economy. About 72 per cent of Nova Scotia’s land base is forested, and the sector supports approximately 6,400 jobs, including 2,700 direct full-time positions.
Source: Government of Nova Scotia
