News release

National Forest Week Activities in Nova Scotia

Natural Resources (to July 2018)

Nova Scotians can celebrate National Forest Week from May 4 to 10 by taking part in different events happening around the province. This year's theme is "Canada's Forests, Source of Life."

"Our forests play a vital role in providing a healthy environment, economy and lifestyle for all Nova Scotians," said Natural Resources Minister Tim Olive. "Not only that, they support more than 250 wildlife species."

Many activities are happening across the province to increase awareness about the many living things that call our forests home.

On Sunday, May 4, children's entertainer Jim Dalling will perform his Ask Me if I'm a Tree show at 2 p.m. at the Nova Scotia Museum of Natural History, 1747 Summer St., Halifax. This educational, interactive presentation will also bring the message of responsible forest use and sustainable forest management to school children in Grades 3 to 6 throughout Nova Scotia.

"Presentations like Mr. Dalling's help to enhance the importance of our forests to every day life," said Mr. Olive. "We all need to recognize how use of our forests impacts our lives. National Forest Week is an opportunity for all of us to consider the true value of Nova Scotia's forests."

Other events around the province include school visits by Natural Resources staff. Staff will talk with Grades 4 to 6 classes about the importance of our forests and will distribute seedlings for the students to plant.

The Department of Natural Resources will also host mall displays in Bridgewater on Wednesday, May 7 and in Sydney on Saturday, May 10. Field demonstrations on forest management and protection of wildlife habitat and water quality will be held on Saturday, May 10 in North Salem, Colchester County and Plympton, Digby County. For more information, contact your local Natural Resources office. A children's forest planting will take place in Hilden, Colchester County on Wednesday, May 7.

The Canadian Forestry Association has sponsored National Forest Week in Canada for the past 70 years.