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Premier’s mandate letter outlines priorities for Alberta’s forest industry

Premier Danielle Smith has issued a mandate letter to Alberta’s newly appointed Minister of Forestry and Parks Todd Loewen, directing him to support responsible growth in Alberta’s forest industry and parks system.

The letter includes various platform commitments, including:

• Working with the Minister of Treasury Board and Finance and Minister of Jobs, Economy and Trade, who is the lead, to develop an incentive program for the forestry industry that is similar to the Agri-Processing Investment Tax Credit.
• Shortening timelines for permit and licence approvals in all areas of the ministry.
• Developing a plan with industry to use active forestry and grasslands management techniques to maintain the health and biodiversity of provincial lease lands and provide nature-based solutions for carbon sequestration.
• Designing a ministry-specific job-attraction strategy that raises awareness for young Albertans (aged 16 to 24) and adults changing careers of the skilled trades and professions available in each economic sector, including pathways for education, apprenticeship, and training.

Loewen expressed his commitment to stewarding Alberta’s beautiful landscapes, ensuring access to parks and public lands for work and recreation, and caring for the province’s natural treasures.

“Providing responsible stewardship for our Crown lands and forests and securing their long-term health, beauty and longevity is work that I am privileged to lead. Forestry and Parks will continue to care for the places Albertans and our neighbours enjoy most,” Loewen said.