National Forest Week

Activities around the province are showcasing the diversity of forests during National Forest Week, Sept. 18-24.

Events are being held in Nova Scotia and across Canada under the theme, Forests for People — Celebrating Canada's Forests in 2011.

"Nova Scotians understand that our forests hold many benefits for people," said Charlie Parker, Minister of Natural Resources. "Forests give us opportunities to experience and research nature, enjoy wilderness recreation, grow economically, and protect our wildlife habitat."

The Department of Natural Resources is joining with local groups to host activities that teach people about the value of forests.

Events include:

• school visits to Grade 6 classrooms by Natural Resources staff giving talks about the importance of forests
• launch of Network of Stewardship Woodlots, a web-based means for woodlot owners to connect and communicate, featuring Nova Scotia Woodlot Owners of the Year
• Radio Treevia daily contests to promote awareness of forests. Winners will be awarded atlases and t-shirts provided by the Department of Natural Resources. The contests will be held on Cat Country FM 99.5 and Big Dog FM100.9 - Truro, CKEC - New Glasgow, C100 - Halifax, Magic FM 94.9 – Kentville, AVR 97.7 – Annapolis Valley, CJLS – Yarmouth, CBC Radio – Sydney and CIGO – Port Hawkesbury.
• Central Woodlot Owner of the Year Field day, Saturday, Sept. 24. It will be held in Meadowvale, Colchester Co., at the woodlot operated by Stephen Keddy and family
• Kids in the Forest is being held at the Keddy woodlot in Meadowvale on Friday, Sept. 23. Children will have the opportunity to learn about the benefits forests provide, from Department of Natural Resources staff members.

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