Forest Fair 2011 Set for Gander

Our Forest, Many Values, Many Benefits is the theme of this year’s Forest Fair which is dedicated to showcasing the value of the forest sector to Newfoundland and Labrador. For the first time since it was introduced in 2008, Forest Fair is being held outside the western region. The event is taking place in Gander from May 5-7.

“Forest Fair is a tremendous educational experience that illustrates the importance of the forest industry and sustainable forest management practices,” said the Honourable Shawn Skinner, Minister of Natural Resources and Minister Responsible for the Forestry and Agrifoods Agency. “Thousands of people attended the fairs held in Corner Brook, and we look forward to hosting in the central region to raise awareness and support for the forest industry in the province.”

Forest Fair 2011 is hosted by the Department of Natural Resources Forestry and Agrifoods Agency. The fair presents a variety of interactive displays and demonstrations, forest harvesting and firefighting equipment, and will feature forest mascots Smokey the Bear and Marti the Pine Marten.

Forest Fair 2011 will be held at the Gander Community Centre on May 5 from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., May 6 from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and May 7 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission is free.

The forest industry in Newfoundland and Labrador is valued at approximately $250 million and creates indirect and direct employment for nearly 5,500 people in rural communities. Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are employed in pulp and paper manufacturing, forest harvesting, lumber production, secondary-processing, Silviculture, forest management and enforcement.

Budget 2011 Standing Strong: For Prosperity. For Our Future. For Newfoundland and Labrador provided $1.2 million for a new forest research and innovation fund to increase the province’s research capacity to ensure sustainable resource management and to foster innovation in the industry.

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Media contact:
Heather Maclean
Director of Communications
Department of Natural Resources
709-729-5282, 697-4137
heathermaclean@gov.nl.ca

2011 05 05                                                               11:45 a.m.