National Forest Week, hosted every year by the Canadian Institute of Forestry, is an opportunity to learn more about the forests and to raise awareness about wood as a valuable and renewable resource.
This year, Canadians from coast to coast are invited to celebrate from Sept.19 to 25.
“National Forest Week brings organizations and Canadians from all different walks of life together to celebrate our forest heritage and increase awareness of this important renewable resource,” said Mark Pearson, executive director of the Canadian Institute of Forestry.
“Forestry plays a critical role in creating economic opportunities and supporting communities across Canada.”
According to the institute’s website, the event was established in 1920 as Forest Fire Prevention Week with the aim of creating greater public awareness towards Canada’s forests.
“At the time, there was no apparent shortage of trees for industrial expansion – the greatest threat came from forest fires, due mainly to human causes,” states a history summary on the website.
“Since then, National Forest Week, as it was renamed in 1967, has evolved to encompass the many and varied human and environmental aspects of Canada’s forest resources – past, present and future.”
The 2021 theme is “Our Forests – Continually Giving” to highlight how Canada’s diverse forests are connected to our everyday lives.
“Forests are more important now than ever, serving as a beacon of renewal, resilience and hope for the future,” explains Pearson.
“As we look ahead, through sustainable forest management, we can ensure our forests are renewed and remain resilient now and for future generations.”
There are many ways that Creston residents can participate in National Forest Week including:
• Planting a tree with Tree Canada
• Care for a newly planted or neglected tree
• Take a walk and appreciate the surrounding woods of the Creston Valley
• Study the tree species at a local park
• Identify all the things at home or school that are made of wood
• Learn about organizations that demonstrate sustainable forest management, such
• Learn about the prevention of forest fires
• Follow BC’s National Forest Week Facebook page for contests, games, and trivia related to forestry
For more information, visit cif-ifc.org/national-forest-week. Join the conversation on social media by using the #NationalForestWeek hashtag.
– With files from Jocelyn Doll
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