Fisheries and Aquaculture
September 21, 2015

Recognizing the Value of the Resource

National Forest Week Focuses on Wildfire in Canada

The ecological impacts of wildfire and the importance of fire safety and prevention are the focus of National Forest Week 2015, which runs from September 20 to 26.

�Wildfire is a powerful and natural force that can bring healthy renewal to diverse ecosystems and has shaped our forests for generations. It can also, however, have a devastating impact on public safety and property and on our province�s forest industry which is valued at $286 million annually and employs over 5,000 people directly and indirectly. Understanding wildfire is paramount to protecting people, property and the forest resource.�
- The Honourable Vaughn Granter, Minister Responsible for the Forestry and Agrifoods Agency

The official theme of National Forest Week 2015 is Wildland Fire - You can make a difference! The Provincial Government invites residents to celebrate our forests and our forest industry by participating in activities that are taking place throughout the province.

In Corner Brook, for example, 200 Grade 5 students are expected to participate in Explore Forestry Day on September 23. The event, which is also open to the public from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., includes forestry-related demonstrations, games and a barbeque at Margaret Bowater Park. Explore Forestry Day is hosted by the Forestry and Agrifoods Agency, Resource Innovations Inc., Kruger Inc., the City of Corner Brook, the Forestry Safety Association, and Forests Without Borders.

On National Tree Day, September 23, tree planting celebrations are planned for Corner Brook and St. John�s. National Tree Day is an opportunity for residents to appreciate the great benefits that trees provide including clean air, wildlife habitat, reducing energy demand and connecting with nature.

Information on National Forest Week, National Tree Day and a list of National Forest Week events can be found at www.faa.gov.nl.ca/forestry/nfw/index.html

QUICK FACTS

• National Forest Week 2015, September 20-26, focuses on the ecological impacts of wildfire as well as the importance of fire safety and prevention.
• The official theme of National Forest Week 2015 is Wildland Fire - You can make a difference! The Provincial Government invites residents to celebrate the forest industry by participating in activities that are taking place throughout the province.
• Information on National Forest Week, National Tree Day and a list of National Forest Week events can be found at www.faa.gov.nl.ca/forestry/nfw/index.html

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Media contact:
Roger Scaplen
Director of Communications
Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture
709-729-3733, 697-5267
rogerscaplen@gov.nl.ca

2015 09 21                        10:20 a.m.