The United Nations General Assembly declared 2011 as the International Year of Forests to raise awareness of sustainable management, conservation and development of all types of forests. This yearlong celebration presents an opportunity for Canadians to join the international community in recognizing how forests contribute to a healthy environment and to the quality of life enjoyed by people every day.
The theme of the Forests 2011 celebration is Forests for People, highlighting the value of forests and their environmental, economic and social relationship with humankind
Throughout 2011, organizations across the country have been hosting events to celebrate Canada's forests, to teach citizens about our local forests and to share views on how our forests meet our communities' needs. One upcoming local event is the dialogue Healthy Forest - Healthy Communities to be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 5, at Wells Gray Inn.
The Healthy Forests - Healthy Communities initiative aims to inform decision makers about the people's vision for the forestlands of British Columbia, identifying areas for improving long-term sustainable management to achieve their goals. The public forum on Nov. 5 will obtain the views of local residents on the importance of forests to our community and whether community needs are being met. Come out and provide your views and perspectives. Community dialogue sessions held in other towns have indicated that citizens want more community influence in decision-making, better information on forestlands and continuation of viable and sustainable forest industry.
Further information about the Healthy Forests - Healthy Communities initiative is available at http://bcforestconversation.com.