Established in 1979, the Forest Capital of Canada program focuses on the valuable role forests play in the socio-economic and environmental health of our communities – past, present and future.

Each year the CFA designates a community or region to host a celebration of its forest resources. Traditionally, the various forestry agencies invite proposals from communities or regions in their province that demonstrate the capacity to mount a successful 12 to 24-month celebration. Interested communities may also submit proposals directly to the CFA.

2008 Forest Capital of Canada: Norfolk County ON
Norfolk County hugs Lake Erie along Canada's southern border and is in the heart of the Carolinian Forest. We might think of this part of our country as being mainly agricultural, or even a manufacturing region. In fact, forests occupy more than 25 percent of the landscape and the resource continues to grow in size and importance, both environmentally and economically.

Norfolk County was designated as the 2008-2009 Forest Capital of Canada
(FCC) by the Canadian Forestry Association to help observe the 100th anniversary of the St. Williams Forestry Station-the genesis in 1908 of the scientific approach to tree seedling production and Ontario's forest renewal programs. The two-year long FCC campaign also recognizes the early contribution to the forest industry of the iconic Alligator Steam Warping Tug Boat, built in Simcoe from 1889 until the 1930s.

In today's terms, Norfolk County can boast a robust approach to forestry and the environment. At Port Rowan, the Long Point Bird Observatory under the aegis of Bird Studies Canada monitors and conducts research into local breeding and migratory bird populations. The Long Point Region Conservation Authority is instrumental in designating significant portions of the landscape as Natural Heritage Woodlands. The Backus Heritage Conservation Area is recognized as a National Historic Site based on the Backus mill dating back to 1798. On the manufacturing side, Townsend Lumber of Courtland is the largest sawmill in Southern Ontario, producing and exporting a wide variety of premium Norfolk County hardwood products.

Norfolk County has the largest woodlot owners association in the Province with more than 300 members. Woodlots on average contain 25 or more different tree species. In addition to hundreds of species of shrubs and herbaceous plants, Norfolk County is also home to the greatest number that are rare or endangered in Canada. It is fitting to celebrate Norfolk County's forest biodiversity with the theme of this year's National Forest Week: Canada's Forests - Biodiversity in a Changing World.

Application for Designation as Forest Capital of Canada
Communities or regions interested in becoming a Forest Capital of Canada must build a business case illustrating their capacity to host a 12 to 24-month celebration.

1. Forest/Community Relationships
Explain the role of Canada’s forest in your community - past, present and future.
Explain how your community promotes stewardship and conservation of its forest resources.

2. Special Features
Indicate any unique natural or cultural heritage features of your community that would enhance the Forest Capital of Canada designation.

3. Calendar of Events
Develop a 12 to 24-month program of community events and activities incorporating National Forest Week and showcasing Forest Capital of Canada designation.
Indicate how your will incorporate existing community events and facilities into your Forest Capital of Canada program.
Propose a legacy project that would lend permanence to the Forest Capital of Canada designation for your community.

4. Leadership and Organizational Capacity
Provide the names and relevant experience of individuals and groups comprising the organizing committee.
List the names of potential sponsor agencies and corporations.

5. Community Support
Provide letters of support from:
• local media
• elected representatives
• educational institutions
• local business (Chamber of Commerce)
• forest industry
• forest stewardship council
• interest groups (forest users)
• service clubs or other community organizations

6. Support from Provincial Agencies and Organizations
Provide letters of support from:
• provincial forestry associations or related organizations involved in forest resource education, awareness and conservation

Proposals can be submitted electionically in PDF format via email.

Reponsibilities of a Forest Capital of Canada

Communications Plan Develop a communications plan that promotes community involvement and media coverage.

Web Site Develop an interactive web site featuring a calendar of events and corporate partnerships.

Launch Host a designation ceremony and program launch for dignitaries, special guests and media.

National Forest Week Host National Forest Week events reflecting the Forest Capital of Canada status.

Final Report Submit a final report to the CFA summarizing Forest Capital activities and results.