The provincial Woodland Owner of the Year for 2026 has been awarded to Ross and Carla Pentz, a couple from Camperdown, Lunenburg County, who have successfully managed their woodlot sustainably for over 50 years. This prestigious recognition underscores their dedication to responsible land management and conservation practices.
The Pentz family not only received the provincial award but they also triumphed in the western region category. In the eastern region, the award was presented to Bill Angevine and his family from Antigonish, highlighting both families' commitment to sustainable woodland stewardship.
This award is conferred to exemplary private landowners who demonstrate outstanding stewardship of their woodlands. It is worth noting that approximately 60 percent of Nova Scotia's woodlands are under private ownership, making the role of landowners pivotal in the preservation and management of these vital resources.
Ross Pentz, sharing his sentiments about his land, affectionately referred to as Heartwood, emphasized its significance: "My land, which we affectionately call Heartwood, is more than 60 acres of woodland, and it is part of our family, our history, and our responsibility. I have spent my career caring for forests, and I believe we all have a duty to respect and protect these lands so they can continue to sustain families, wildlife, and communities for generations to come." He explained that Heartwood provides them with a Christmas tree and wreaths each year, serving as a constant reminder of the land’s gifts and the importance of caring for it.
As a diligent steward of his woodlot, Pentz has been actively involved in all silviculture work necessary for its upkeep and enhancement. He has opened his property to neighbors and friends throughout the year, inviting them to partake in activities such as horseback riding, birdwatching, and hiking, thereby fostering a community spirit centered on nature and sustainability.
Minister of Natural Resources Tory Rushton congratulated the winners, stating, "Congratulations to the winners, and thank you to all the candidates nominated this year. Private woodlot owners play an essential role in the sustainability and productivity of the province's forests. Their important economic contributions and protection of ecologically rich woodlands benefit all Nova Scotians."
Bill Angevine, the recipient of the eastern region award, has owned his woodlot for the past 20 years and has dedicated significant effort to improving its health and productivity. He employs sustainable resource management techniques, including the use of horses to haul logs, further emphasizing his commitment to environmentally friendly practices.
The criteria for receiving these accolades were rigorous, focusing on integrated resource management practices, adherence to environmental standards, achievement of sustainability goals, protection of wildlife habitats, and a solid understanding of forestry and woodlot management. This thorough evaluation process underscores the importance of responsible land stewardship in Nova Scotia’s diverse forest ecosystems.
