A small urban forest on the outskirts of Squamish, soon to be known as the BC Forest Service Centenary Grove, will commemorate the centennial birthday of the BC Forest Service and the exemplary work of the men and women of the Forest Service family.

Establishment of the grove will also recognize the storied history of Squamish and the community's continuous efforts to ensure B.C.'s forests and trees will be enjoyed by future generations. Reforestation activities in Squamish date back to at least 1939 with the town's very first Arbor Day celebration.

A section of the grove is being replanted and overlaps with the original Jack Quick Memorial Forest created in 1941 to honour pilot officer John Askey Quick, a resident of Squamish, who died in the Second World War. The remainder of the grove is currently treed.

Squamish has played a significant role in the BC Forest Service since 1950, first as the headquarters for a ranger station, followed by a district office.

A commemorative sign soon will stand near the grove. The sign will include historic photos and stories about the BC Forest Service and Squamish's forestry past.

Quotes:

Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Steve Thomson -

"B.C.'s forests play an important role in the daily lives of British Columbians. Establishing this grove is a perfect way to celebrate the 100-year history of the BC Forest Service and the continued dedication of the community of Squamish to maintain excellent forest stewardship goals."

West Vancouver - Sea to Sky MLA Joan McIntyre -

"This urban grove will provide a sense of community spirit for our residents and will ensure the BC Forest Service and Squamish's deep-rooted forest history are remembered for years to come."

Mayor, District of Squamish, Rob Kirkham -

"We are proud of the role that Squamish has played within the BC Forest Service dating back to our first Arbor Day in 1939, and are honoured to celebrate the centenary through this recognition of our town's efforts.

"The BC Forest Service Centenary Grove is a wonderful addition to our community and will provide residents and families, in particular the local men and women whose lives have been devoted to forestry, a place of natural beauty to enjoy and to reminisce about our community's forest history."

Quick Facts:

• The ministry's Sea to Sky District covers approximately 1.1 million hectares and includes 1,200 kilometres of Forest Service roads and over 140 recreation sites and trails.

• The District of Squamish offers a number of outdoor recreation opportunities including skiing, hiking, mountain biking, climbing, snowmobiling, kite boarding and camping.

Learn More:

BC Forest Service Centenary Society: http://www.bcfs100.ca/bscripts/index.asp

District of Squamish: http://www.squamish.ca/

Contact:

Brennan Clarke
Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261