The vision for Forest NB – and all of our member companies – is to grow a future for our communities through renewable forests. But what does that really mean and what does it look like in action? In the coming months we’ll be sharing highlights for some of the things our members are doing to advance forest stewardship and grow healthy communities.
Tucked away just a stone’s throw from the Pokiok Bridge on Route 105 near Nackawic is the Pokiok Nature Park, established on freehold land belonging to AV Group Inc. This little gem is relatively unknown outside of the local area, but that is quickly changing as it gains popularity with hiking, nature and recreational enthusiasts. Covering approximately 465 hectares and with over 7.75 km of trails along the Pokiok Stream and through several different forest types including softwood stands, hardwood ridges and cedar swamps, the park provides the opportunity to experience a range of diverse ecosystems. In addition, there are multiple rapids along the Pokiok Stream, and the Hiker’s Dream trail brings you to the Ducks Unlimited Pokiok Dam that helps maintain a large wetland complex along the upper stream.
The park is open to public access via a haul road maintained by AV Group that is also used as part of the ATV trail system in the area. With agreement from the landowner, a local ATV group erected a picnic shelter next to the bridge across the Pokiok Stream and adjacent to a small parking area. This park is a great place for a family outing or quiet retreat day.
The freehold land is sustainably managed for multiple uses because AV Group NB understands that vibrant communities need quality of life as well as economic opportunities. In March 2022, AV Group NB received the Forest Stewardship Council’s ®(FSC) National Forest Stewardship Standard certification (SAI-FM/COC-008101) for the 42,000-hectare Acadian Forest type on this freehold – the first in the province! FSC sets the “gold standard” for responsible and ethical management of forests that provides certified forest products and environmental and social benefits, including meaningful engagement with Indigenous groups. We applaud AV Group NB on this achievement!
This is one example of how vibrant economies foster vibrant communities, by providing a balance between jobs and quality of life and advancing governance and management objectives that benefit all parties.
If you are up for a day of exploring a beautiful, forested area in York County and seeing how forests are managed for multiple purposes, check out the Pokiok Nature Park! https://www.hikingnb.ca/Trails/LowerSJRiver/BigPokiok.html
