Millar Western plans 200 millionth tree

In 1977, when Millar Western planted their very first seedling, Whitecourt was only a sliver of its current state, much smaller in both size and population.  Both town and business grew together, side by side, supporting each other throughout the years.  On hand for the momentous occasion were several dignitaries including Chairman Mac Millar, President and CEO Craig Armstrong, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Oneil Carlier, Mayor Maryann Chichak, Jon Carson, MLA, Edmonton-Meadowlark and Chief Tony Alexis of the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation.

 

Prior to the official shovel scoop, honoured guests were asked to share some words with those in attendance which included employees, family members and friends.  Mayor Chichak spoke highly of Millar Western, calling it a leader and innovator, stating that “their success is enviable and well deserved.”  Minister Oneil Carlier expressed his pride in being present for the tree planting stating that he is “looking forward to seeing the seedling grow” and added that the success of businesses like Millar shows the possibility of Alberta products on the world stage.  Chief Tony Alexis shared the beautiful connection between people and the trees, “I’m here as a partner.  We work together in a way that we build our families, our communities and our environment.  For all trees, the 200 million you’ve planted and the 200 million to come.”  Chairman Mac Millar then took the mic, thanking everyone for the tremendous support and kind words.  He reflected on his family’s accomplishments and long-standing history with the community “during our many decades in business, we have witnessed, first-hand, the benefits of sustainable forestry,” said Mr. Millar. “We have seen harvested areas returned to healthy forests that support biodiversity and other environmental values, as well as the economic well-being of thousands of Albertans and dozens of communities across our province.”

 

Mac Millar also thanked all the employees who have helped the company grow into the large employer it is today, with more than 550 full-time staff and the hundreds more who receive contract work.  “This natural resource is fully renewable, for us and our grandchildren and their grandchildren” said Mac, adding that forest areas cut by his grandfather back in the 20’s are now once again thriving forests.

 

94% of Canada’s forests are publicly-owned and subject to stringent land-use regulations.  25% are managed for commercial use and of the managed portion, only a slim 0.5% is harvested annually.  By law, all harvested areas must be promptly regenerated.  With their reforestation efforts, Millar Western is guaranteeing that generations to come can enjoy forested areas, as an average of three seedlings are planted for every tree they cut.  Producing 450 million board feet of lumber and 320 thousand tons of pulp each year, definitely results in a lot of planted trees.  200 million, to be exact.