2011 International Year of the Forest

The United Nations General Assembly declared 2011 as the International Year of Forests to raise awareness on sustainable management, conservation and sustainable development of all types of forests.

The theme - “Forests for People"- is depicted by the logo, which shows that forests are vital to the survival and well-being of people everywhere.  It includes:
-A shelter for people.
-A habitat to biodiversity.
-A source of food, medicine and clean water.
-A vital role in maintaining a stable global climate and environment.
(Click for more information and for permission to use this logo)

The components of this theme are mirrored in the conceptual framework that helped determine the content and format of PLT activities at all grade levels. PreK-8 activities are listed here, and secondary activites are listed here.  All can be used to teach about the International Year of Forests through out 2011.

The United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF) is implementing the International Year of Forests. UNFF plans to strengthen their working relationships with different organizations working towards sustainable forest management, as well as on forest-related issues within the United Nations system, such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

The United Kingdom, Norway, Italy, Indonesia, Kenya, the United States and elsewhere will host events including conferences, workshops, expositions, as well as educational activities.

The American Forest Foundation (AFF), with support from the USDA Forest service (USFS) has partnered with the National Association of State Foresters (NASF) and the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) to help develop, guide, and facilitate plans for the U.S. celebration of 2011 International Year of Forests. A variety of events, activities and resources (including a calendar and downloadable event toolkit) will be available on a central website and through traditional and social media outreach. The goal of this campaign will be to elevate awareness of the benefits, values, and challenges of America’s forests, and amplify what we all are already doing.

AFF is featuring one of our activitites, the Environmental Exchange Box ( activity #20),  and is engaging both its Tree Farm and PLT networks in compiling and decorating state-specific Forest Exchange Boxes for display at the United Nations and other locations and events throughout the year.  4th graders attending Mitchell Elementary School in Golden are creating and decorating our Colorado Exchange Box.  Stay tuned for photos and descriptions of their creation!