Boreal Heartland Forest Products in Air Ronge sells a number of non-timber forest products. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

federal funding

KCDA receives $975,000 to develop non-timber forest sector

Jul 24, 2019 | 4:21 PM

The minister of science and sport was in Air Ronge today to announce $975,000 in funding for Keewatin Community Development Association (KCDA).

The funding will be used to scale-up and increase the production of the non-timber forest sector in northern Saskatchewan. According to KCDA CEO Randy Johns, the grant will help Boreal Heartland Forest Products to building capacity to find markets, as well as increase the amount of products capable of being processed at the facility. He noted the division sells dried mushrooms, teas and other items.

“We’ll also be able to look at the research and development necessary to make new products,” Johns said. “One of the things we’re looking into is essential oils.”

The funding is also meant to assist KCDA in the creation of 50 new jobs in production and sales, as well as help them purchase equipment, develop marketing plans and materials. Johns noted the hiring process is already underway with at least five employees out in the field collecting product this week, along with an additional five employees processing products. Boreal Heartland is currently accepting fireweed, which is either used in tea or for shampoo and skin creams.

“Through these investments, our government is building a stronger western Canadian economy, growing emerging sectors, and creating well-paying jobs for all Canadians,” Minister Kirsty Duncan said. “This project also recognizes how Indigenous knowledge and respect for the land can lead to new opportunities for people in northern Saskatchewan and across Canada.”

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Aside from the Boreal Heartland division, KCDA is also involved with training opportunities, career workshops, economic development and an annual mining conference called Core Days.

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derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno