BC Timber Sales (BCTS) is a supporter of National Forest Week, Sept. 22 to 28, 2019.

This year’s theme, Canada’s Forests: Diverse Outdoor Classrooms, highlights the endless learning opportunities that Canada’s forests provide. Getting outdoors to learn and explore benefits individual health and expands collective forest education, improving the well-being of all Canadians.

As a self-financing program within the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development, BCTS’s primary role is to manage the harvesting and reforestation of a significant portion of the timber in British Columbia’s provincial forest.

Hands-on education is a vital part of BCTS’s goal to protect and sustain the province’s natural resources for future generations. BCTS staff continually seek opportunities to educate the public about the importance of B.C.’s forests. In celebration of National Forest Week, BCTS has several events planned.

In Port Alberni, BCTS staff will tour Grade 5 students around the McLean Mill Historic Park. Students will be introduced to the local forest industry, while receiving presentations on topics including tree identification, fish management, riparian management and how First Nations values are incorporated into forest management. Local fire fighters, helicopter pilots and many provincial government employees will be participating. Lunch and snacks will be provided by Save On Foods.

In 100 Mile House, BCTS foresters will lead students from grades 4 to 7 through education stations in Centennial Park, introducing them to subjects including orienteering, forest pathology, tree identification and wildlife habitat.

An educational event will be held near Nelson in Kokanee Creek Provincial Park for all Grade 5 students in the Kootenay School District. The event is organized by Selkirk Natural Resource District and BCTS staff, with participation from Kalesnikoff Lumber and A.F. Timber Co. Ltd. The event will include information and activity stations on a variety of topics, such as forest health, wildlife, tree growth, local ecosystems, harvesting, wood products, forest sector safety and sustainable forest management practices.