Forest Learning for International Day of Forests 2013

March 21st is the International Day of Forests:

The United Nations wants an annual celebration of the world's forests to highlight why we need to protect them. This is their promotional video:

In England the Forestry Commission are responsible for protecting, expanding and promoting the sustainable management of woods and forests and increasing their value to society and the environment and are therefore keen to get more people using our forests and learning from them and with them. 

Therefore on March 21st they are hosting over 30 events including:

• a land skills event for a college group in Whitwell, Derbyshire
• shelter building activities for 80 eight year old pupils at Whinlatter Forest in Cumbria
• local primary schools in Kent are visiting Bedgebury Pinetum to go on an endangered tree walk
• working with a Scout group in Bartley Green, near Birmingham, to help them work towards their Forester badge
• taking a 6^th form group with profound multiple learning difficulties on a sensory trail at Westonbirt, the Forestry Commission’s National Arboretum.

Sir Harry Studholme, Forestry Commission Chair, said;

“Trees and woodlands are important to all of us. They frame our landscapes and shape our environment. Our quality of life, even the air we breathe is enhanced by our trees. The timber in our woods impacts not just the natural but also the built environment. Our buildings and our furniture are showcases to the versatility of wood.

“The Public Forest Estate in England is a fantastic platform for the Forestry Commission to show the best of what can be done with forestry. How we manage our nation’s forests sustainably and safeguard them for the future: Leading the way in demonstrating how forests are an important part of the economy and good for the environment, while at the same time a space for people to enjoy themselves and experience nature.

“World Forestry Day promotes awareness of the value of forests across the globe. The learning resources launched today give information on the protection of, production and recreation of forests reminding us about how important they are. What better day to join in the celebrations and launch our new approach to learning!”

They want to highlight more of what the forest can offer not just as a nice place to visit but that they are a great learning resource. I am certainly looking forward to trying out some of their family downloads when we next get up to Whinlatter. 

There is so much on offer for people of all ages which is nicely shown with this handout:

There is so much more to do and learn in the forests so get on to the Forestry Commission site to find your nearest forest and find out what they have to offer you, your family or your school!