Theme
Since May 2002, the traditional Semaine de l'arbre et des forêts has given way to a full month of awareness activities. Québecers have celebrated the event for the last 125 years, demonstrating their affection for trees as a collective asset, and reminding themselves that they belong to a people with a history that is tied to the forests.
During the month-long event, the Ministère des Ressources naturelles et de la Faune and its partners present a number of activities to demonstrate and help the general public discover the versatility of wood as a resource. We all experience the forest in specific ways in our everyday lives – for example, in our work, in our leisure activities, and in using a multitude of products derived from trees.
Je choisis la forêt
The theme for this month’s Mois de l’arbre et des forêts is Je choisis la forêt A number of activities will be organized in May 2010, with the aim of encouraging citizens to develop an interest in and attachment to the forest, and be proud of asserting their choice.
Je choisis la forêt for my education, so that I can select a career related to the forest and form part of the next generation of forestry workers.
Je choisis la forêt for my career, so that I can work in an exceptional natural environment.
Je choisis la forêt for my leisure, so that I can take part in a host of different activities, including hunting, fishing and hiking.
Lastly, Je choisis la forêt and am aware of the importance of the forest resource in every sphere of daily life.
The visual includes a t-shirt bearing a message that will attract attention and be popular among young people. The t-shirt has become a symbol, worn by everyone regardless of age. For people of all ages and for natural resource and forestry stakeholders alike, the t-shirt symbolizes pride and membership in a group that shares the same values.
The tree growing out of the t-shirt neckline symbolizes life. The face suggests that the tree is a living thing, as well as a valuable resource.
A major economic activity
The forests play a vital role in ensuring the economic development of Québec. The forest products industry ranks first in Québec’s manufacturing sector, with shipments valued at more than $24 billion. The sector generates approximately 128,000 direct jobs, and 209 municipalities depend directly on the forest industry for their survival. The industry’s activities therefore form the basis of development in many regions.
The forest sector is also important to the major cities of Québec and Montréal. For example, the Greater Québec region is acknowledged as a major forestry centre, among other things in the fields of research, teaching and services, while Montréal, with its many head offices and research centres, is a world pulp and paper marketplace. |
