Happy International Day of Forests!

Did you know that the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed March 21 the International Day of Forests in 2012 to celebrate and raise awareness of the importance of all types of forests?

It’s no coincidence International Day of Forests also falls around the first day of spring. As the days get longer and the air and ground around us warm up, we experience firsthand the buzz of nature and the signs of renewal all around us.

That renewal fuels growth in many ways. This year’s theme – forests and economies – celebrates the essential ways forests drive economic prosperity and reminds us that healthy communities begin with resilient, thriving natural landscapes.

At Forests Canada, we know that forests are powerful economic engines – they support jobs, strengthen rural and urban communities, and contribute to industries that help drive our national prosperity. Canada’s forests shape our health, our environment, and our economy.

We aren’t alone in knowing how important our forests are. In a recent Forests Canada survey conducted by Abacus Data, nearly 9 out of 10 Canadians believe that forests are a vital part of our national identity and natural heritage.

However, Canada’s forested landscapes are now experiencing unprecedented impacts from wildfires, creating urgent and complex challenges for post-fire forest recovery, regeneration, and resilience. In fact, in the last three years alone, the demand for Forests Canada’s restoration expertise, science-based data analysis, and investment in forest recovery efforts has increased significantly – and one of the driving factors of that increase has been the devastating impacts of recent wildfires.

The need for coordinated national action, knowledge exchange, and the development of best practices for long-term forest health has never been more evident. It is in response to this need that Forests Canada is establishing a National Working Group on Post-Fire Forest Recovery Practices so that we can work together to help create lasting and positive outcomes for Canada’s forests.

Just as each spring brings new life to Canada’s forests, the generosity of individuals and the financial support of foundations, corporations and governments, helps them thrive, year after year.

This International Day of Forests, please be part of that renewal and give today.