Third Annual Forest Fair Looks Beyond 2010

The future of the province's forest industry will be highlighted this weekend in Corner Brook (Friday and Saturday, April 23 and 24) as part of Forest Fair 2010, an annual event dedicated to showcasing the value of the forest sector to Newfoundland and Labrador.

"The forest industry continues to be an important economic contributor to many rural communities and we need to ensure the people of the province are aware of its value and the products we derive from it," said the Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Minister of Natural Resources and Minister Responsible for the Forestry and Agrifoods Agency. "Our annual forest fair is one way we can educate people about our forests and forest management, the career possibilities in this industry and the wide range of local products made here."

Forest Fair 2010 is hosted by the Department of Natural Resources' Forestry and Agrifoods Agency, which is headquartered in Corner Brook. The agency has identified the need for public awareness and support of the industry in ensuring a sustainable and viable forest industry into the future.

The fair includes a variety of interactive displays and demonstrations for the entire family, including a wildlife display and indoor nature park for children. Instructional workshops will be held on such topics as safety, mapping and global positioning systems (GPS). Forest harvesting and firefighting equipment will also be on display and children can meet local forest mascots Smokey the Bear and Marti the Pine Marten.

More than 850 school-age children are expected to tour the forest fair on Friday.

"The forest fair continues to grow in popularity and we look forward to seeing all the school children and their parents again this year," said Minister Dunderdale. "This event has something for everyone. Our goal is to increase public awareness of the importance of a healthy forest industry, which includes innovative forest products, viable commercial opportunities and valuable recreational pursuits."

The two-day event runs at the Pepsi Studio in Corner Brook from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Friday and from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is free.

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

2010 04 22                   10:40 a.m.