Celebrate National Forest Week in Nova Scotia
Sunday, May 2 is the beginning of National Forest Week in Canada, Natural Resources Minister Richard Hurlburt announced today, April 30. Nova Scotians can celebrate the week by taking part is various activities around the province.
The theme for the week is Canada's Forests -- A Fine Balance and it focuses on the decline of wildlife habitat and the increase in species at risk.
"Our forests contribute significantly to a healthy environment, economy and lifestyle for all Nova Scotians," said Mr. Hurlburt. "In addition, they provide food and shelter for thousands of wildlife species."
Activities are planned across the province to increase awareness about the many living things that call our forests home.
Children's entertainer Jim Dalling will perform his "Ask me if I'm a Tree" show for school children in grades 3 to 6 throughout Nova Scotia during National Forest Week. The show is an educational, interactive presentation that brings the message of responsible forest use and sustainable forest management.
"Mr. Dalling's presentation will show our children the importance of our forests to every-day life," said Mr. Hurlburt. "National Forest Week is an opportunity for all of us to consider the true value of Nova Scotia's forests."
Other events around the province include school visits by Department of Natural Resources staff, who will talk with students in grades 4 to 6 classes about the importance of our forests and will distribute seedlings for them to plant.
The Department of Natural Resources will also host mall displays in Sydney on Friday, May 7 and New Minas on Saturday, May 8. A children's forest planting will take place in Hilden, Colchester, Co., on Wednesday, May 5. In addition, staff at the Natural Resources Education Centre in Middle Musquodoboit will host an open house on Saturday, May 8 on the McCurdy woodlot to focus on Hurricane Juan damage and clean-up activities.
National Forest Week is sponsored by the Canadian Forestry Association and runs until Saturday, May 8. Information about the different activities is available at www.gov.ns.ca/natr .