News release

Celebrate National Forest Week in Nova Scotia

Natural Resources (to July 2018)

Nova Scotians are being encouraged to celebrate National Forest Week in Canada (Sunday, Sept. 24, to Saturday, Sept. 30), by taking part in various activities around the province, or by visiting a forest or wetland.

The theme for 2006 is Canada's natural resources -- connected to our people and our land.

"The forests provide many benefits, including a place for personal recreation, exercise, reflection, and substantial economic value to thousands of Nova Scotians," said David Morse, Minister of Natural Resources. "In addition, they provide wildlife habitat, carbon storage and a source of clean water. This year's theme is very appropriate considering our reliance on natural resources."

As in previous years, department staff will join local groups and associations to conduct activities related to National Forest Week.

Children's entertainer Jim Dalling will perform his "Ask me if I'm a tree" show for students in grades three to six throughout Nova Scotia during National Forest Week. It is an interactive presentation that promotes responsible forest use.

"Mr. Dalling's presentation has become an important part of National Forest Week in Nova Scotia and he continues to reach out to children to get them excited about our forests," said Mr. Morse.

Other events around the province include school visits by Department of Natural Resources staff. They will help grade six students plant seedlings and discuss the importance of our forests. Radio treevia contests will be held daily with prizes of Nova Scotia atlases and T-shirts. Contests will be held at Cat Country FM 99.5, Big Dog FM100.9 in Truro; CKEC in New Glasgow; Country 101 in Halifax; Magic FM 94.9 in Kentville; CBC in Sydney; and CIGO in Port Hawkesbury.

Kids in the Forest events are planned in various locations. These will bring elementary children to a forest setting, where the students can get a close-up look at living systems.

Bowater Mersey is hosting a silviculture tour on Saturday, Sept. 30. For more information, call 902-354-3445.

Finally, two woodlot owner of the year field days are being held in conjunction with National Forest Week. On Saturday, Sept. 23, woodlot owners and the public will have an opportunity to visit the woodlot of eastern region winner Eldon Taylor. On Sunday, Sept. 30, the same opportunity will be provided by the provincial woodlot owners of the year, Duncan and Laurie Johnson of South Maitland, Hants Co.

National Forest Week is co-ordinated nationally by the Canadian Forestry Association. Events in support of the week are organized and sponsored locally. More information about National Forest Week and activities is available on the website at www.gov.ns.ca/natr .