a unique perspective a vision for canada's forests - Canadian ...

Forests without Borders is a charitable program operated by the Canadian Institute ofForestry. Forests without Borders works with existing non-government organizations todeliver the skills, knowledge and tools that enable poverty stricken communities aroundthe world to effectively meet their challenges and to realize the many benefits obtainedfrom the forest. The scarcity of resources in these communities such as fuel, shelter andwater results in a cascade of problems that undermine human security and health. Manyof these problems can be effectively resolved through proper forestry.RATIONALThis project is dedicated to increasing public awareness of the benefits of forestecosystems and our environment by distributing 25,000 Clean Air Tree Kits to students.The Forests without Borders ‘Growing a Future Together’ campaign will focus onhelping students recognize that they can make adifference for our world, by improving the generalecology and biodiversity of their neighborhood throughtree planting.The use of thousands of Clean Air Kits will raiseawareness and directly benefit communities byencouraging true sustainability (i.e. all components:ecological and environmental, social-cultural-spiritualand economic). The project will promote conservation and the wise use of our planet’sresources. These Clean Air Tree Kits will be distributed by CIF/IFC members to eachstudent during the commencement of local community environmental events such asEnvirothon competitions, forestry teacher tours, and other environmental workshopswhere CIF/IFC members participate.Canada’s communities are experiencing a decrease in new forest professionals and foreststewards; individuals with the training to help sustain and properly manage Canada’sforests. This project will spark interest and awareness amongst potential professionalswho are needed to sustain a high skill level, by incorporating forest science and thesocial, economic and technological knowledge associated with forestry across Canada.Since there is a lack of qualified professional individuals to fill available and future jobs,the demand for forest professionals is becoming more evident.With less students enrolled into forestry education across Canada, post secondary forestryeducation programs are becoming minimized. The loss of any forestry education programcuts into our capacity to educate the young professionals and practitioners of tomorrow,especially at a time when a shortage is imminent across the country. If enrolment intoforestry programs continues to decrease, these programs will begin reducing theircapacity, lowering funding and gradually moving towards complete closure.Consequently, it will be extremely difficult and expensive to re-start these programs.Hence, immediate action must be taken to reverse this trend. This project will be animportant part of that action by re-instilling awareness, understanding and interest- 74 -