Tree-planting ceremonies, forest tours and presentations to school-age children are among the activities planned to mark National Forest Week, an annual event celebrating one of Canada�s greatest natural resources.

"The forest industry plays a vital role in Newfoundland and Labrador, providing social, cultural and economic benefits," said the Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Minister of Natural Resources and the Minister Responsible for the Forestry and Agrifoods Agency. "It�s important to take this opportunity to reflect on what the forest industry means to our province, to increase awareness of the value of the industry, and to highlight the sustainable forest management practices that are taking place in Newfoundland and Labrador."

National Forest Week, September 21 - 27, is recognized in many municipalities in Newfoundland and Labrador. The theme for the 2008 event, Canada�s Natural Resources: Biodiversity in a Changing World, highlights the importance of long-term historical forest research in addressing ecological and environmental issues.

The theme for National Forest Week 2008 communicates that sustainable land-use decisions are not made in isolation, but must take into account forest ecosystems and biodiversity. The theme also highlights the importance of maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem benefits to society through responsible forest management principles and practices.

During National Forest Week, the Department of Natural Resources will hold municipal tree-planting ceremonies in 12 forest districts across the province. Commemorative plaques will be presented at each tree-planting location.

Budget 2008 provides $55 million to the forestry sector this year, including $14 million in new funding to support diversification initiatives for the forest sector to provide for stability and create growth in the industry.

Media contact:
Tracy Barron
Director of Communications
Department of Natural Resources
709-729-5282
tracybarron@gov.nl.ca 

National Forest Week is recognized in many municipalities in Newfoundland and Labrador. The following events are taking place from September 21 � 27:

A tree-planting ceremony will be held at Margaret Bowater Park on September 22 at 10:00 a.m. Some area students have been invited to attend this event, which will include a walk to Glynmill Inn Pond. Booths will be set up with students stopping at each booth for tree identification and other activities.

Corner Brook Pulp and Paper Ltd. will offer a public tour of managed forest in the Loggers School Road area on September 24. Participation is limited. For more information, contact: Stephen Balsom, Planning Forester, Corner Brook Pulp and Paper Ltd. at sbalsom@cb.kruger.com or 709-637-3314.

A tree-planting ceremony will be held at Our Lady of Mercy School on September 24.

Grade 5 students will take part in a day of activities starting 10:00 a.m. in the Fire Protection Centre. A tree-planting ceremony will be held at 11:00 a.m. At 1:00 p.m. students will participate in an educational field tour.

A tree-planting ceremony will be held September 22, 2:00 p.m. at the town hall.

On September 26, 11:00 a.m. at New World Island Academy, the winner of the National Forest Week Poster Contest will be announced.

An open house will be held, and schools can visit the Clarenville or Southern Bay Department of Natural Resources offices to talk about forest management, and to meet Department of Natural Resources conservation officers. Schools are scheduled to visit on September 23 and 24. The public open house will be start September 23 at 5:00 p.m. with a tour at 5:30 p.m.

On September 23, Grade 7 students at Queen of Peace Middle School will participate in a tree-planting ceremony and the award presentation to the winner of the National Forest Week Essay Contest.

On September 24, Grade 7 students will participate in a field day, witnessing first hand A Day in the Life of a Conservation Officer, at the local tree nursery. Activity stations will be set up, giving students the opportunity to learn some of the duties performed by Department of Natural Resources conservation officers.

On September 22, Grade 5 students will participate in a field trip to Grand Lake Road focusing on plant and tree identification, and forest ecosystems.

2008 09 18                                                   10:25 a.m.