The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
This year's National Forest Week, from Sunday until this Saturday, is a time to celebrate the many ways that forests make a difference in our lives and to our livelihood. This year's theme, The Greenest Workforce, highlights the important role of forestry professionals in maintaining the woodlands that contribute to the province's environmental, economic and human health. Wednesday is designated as National Tree Day. 'In Saskatchewan, we are blessed with vast forests that sustain communities, shelter animals and birds, and provide us with places for recreation and relaxation,' Environment Minister Ken Cheveldayoff said. 'Our government is committed to protecting this priceless legacy, now and for future generations.' The Ministry of Environment is responsible for a variety of programs to ensure the province's forests remain healthy and sustainable, including forest renewal projects, insect and disease control, wildfire management, inventory, harvest licensing, compliance and policy development. In 2013, the ministry planted more than 2.5 million seedlings in Saskatchewan's Crown forests. Covering about 343,000 square kilometres _ more than half the province _ Saskatchewan forests support a growing forestry industry that currently generates $500 million in annual product sales and directly employs 2,800 Saskatchewan people. Through its 44 offices across the province, the Ministry of Environment provides science-based solutions, compliance and mitigation measures aimed at protecting the environment, safeguarding communities and contributing to the province's economic growth.
