A celebration about anything and everything forestry is part of Forest Fair 2008, an inaugural event hosted by the Forestry and Agrifoods Agency in Corner Brook this weekend that will showcase and promote all aspects of the province�s forest sector.

"Our province�s forest sector is a vital component of the economy of many communities throughout the province and we feel it is important to create greater awareness of the local products and benefits we derive from our forests," said the Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Minister of Natural Resources and the Minister Responsible for the Agrifoods Agency. "Forest Fair 2008 is also meant to promote the positive aspects of province�s forest sector and encourage greater knowledge and awareness of forest management issues, which are crucial to the continued sustainability and viability of the industry."

Visitors to Forest Fair 2008 can participate in interactive displays and learn more about the province�s forests through scientific demonstrations. The fair includes a working sawmill, forest fire fighting demonstration, wildlife displays, an indoor forest, ATV safety instruction and cooking demonstrations. Smokey the Bear and Marti the Pine Marten, which are always a hit with children, will also be present throughout the weekend.

"My department is pleased to be hosting Forest Fair 2008, which is a unique event designed with the whole family in mind," Minister Dunderdale said. "The weekend is intended to promote greater interest in our forest sector and of our local products, while providing an opportunity for learning for the whole family."

The Forestry and Agrifoods Agency is headquartered in Corner Brook. Since its formation in October 2006, the agency has focused on identifying strategies related to priorities and emerging opportunities in the industry. One of the priorities identified was the need to implement a public awareness initiative for the forestry sector. Supported by a $150,000 investment, the strategy is intended to educate people about the value of the forest sector and promote wood products produced in the province. Forest Fair 2008 is part of this initiative.

Forest Fair 2008 is being held in Corner Brook at the Pepsi Centre. It opens at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, April 25 and runs until 5:00 p.m. Sunday, April 27. The complete Forest Fair 2008 event schedule can be viewed online at www.gov.nl.ca/nr.

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Tracy Barron
Director of Communications
Department of Natural Resources
709-729-5282, 690-8241
tracybarron@gov.nl.ca 

2008 04 23                                                     2:35 p.m.