An Influential Industry

Logging was one of the most influential industries in the history of the Mississagi River Valley. Hundreds of local men were hired to work for these companies, whether part-time or full-time. Logging helped to keep food on the table and clothes on the backs of many people who otherwise would have had much less. It is important to keep in mind, however, that there were some environmentally unfriendly effects of the logging business. Tannin from the bark leaking into the waterways, poisoning animals, was just one of the problems the logging business caused. It should be remembered that a balance is possible when it comes to satisfying the overwhelming need for wood while continuing to maintain healthy forests.

Left:Horses are Ready to Pull Right:Logs on a River After Going Down the Chute

The pages listed below will provide information about the logging industry in the Mississagi River Valley and how it changed the area.

Logging in the Mississagi River Valley Methods of Logging

Life in the Lumber Camps

Logging in Northern Ontario Glossary.