The Government of Canada manages a broad range of infrastructure and is committed to maintaining and improving infrastructure across the country. Investments in this critical infrastructure, including science and research facilities, are a key element in the Government’s efforts to create jobs, growth and long-term prosperity.
The Government of Canada has committed $5 million to upgrade the Great Lakes Forestry Centre (GLFC) in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. The improvements to the building and laboratories include the replacement of chillers, lighting, fume hoods, air distribution systems and building automation systems. These upgrades will provide greater energy efficiency and cost savings.
The Great Lakes Forestry Centre is one of five regional research centres under Natural Resources Canada’s Canadian Forest Service and is home to 120 employees dedicated to supporting the sustainable development of Canada’s forests and a competitive forest sector. Located in Sault Ste. Marie, the GLFC specializes in biological research related to trees and forest ecosystems in areas such as forest insects, biotechnology, forest ecology and biodiversity, climate change and forest fires.
Scientists at the Centre work to improve the identification, understanding and management of native and alien insects and diseases. Their research is aimed at developing biological control methods and strategies, understanding insect biology, the pathways by which alien pests spread and improving sampling techniques. The GLFC also maintains an insect-rearing and quarantine facility that employs clean-room technology to support research on invasive and native insects.
The GLFC is home to Canada’s Insect Production and Quarantine Laboratories and a leader in emerald ash borer (EAB) research. The EAB is an introduced insect from Asia that is decimating ash trees in Canada. From the time of the EAB’s discovery in North America, scientists at the GLFC have played a prominent role in developing methods for detection and control of this insect. The laboratory upgrades announced today will also help in the fight to control EAB and advance Canada’s efforts to ensure sustainable forest management.
Alexandra Lemieux
Press Secretary
Office of Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources
613-996-2007
or
Media Relations
Natural Resources Canada
Ottawa
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