With support from the PEI Model Forest (Forest Communities Program) and the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry, John Rice along with Urban MacLellan and families of Grand River would like to invite the public to their woodlots on Saturday, November 15, 2008, 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. (Grand River Rte. # 127- follow the signs). This is an opportunity to learn more about Island forests and discover how people use private woodlots, and the importance of this natural resource to our Island’s environment, economy and communities.

This event will include a variety of exhibits and demonstrations. Guests can explore a range of forest products, management options for their woodlands, free BBQ, guided tours of managed forests and a firewood and chainsaw education area.

Scheduled features will include a hayride to and from the woodlot tour; Chainsaw Sharpening Clinic and the “Forest Doctors”; Randy Dibblee, well-known Island wildlife biologist; Dave Carmichael, horticulturalist at the J. Frank Gaudet Tree Nursery; and Mark Arsenault, NSFSS certified chainsaw safety instructor, will address visitors’ ailments by answering questions on wildlife management, the health and care of trees and shrubs and chainsaw maintenance and sharpening techniques.

There will also be staff from the Private Land section of the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry on hand to answer questions and advise landowners of programming opportunities available to assist in the management of their forest resource, through the Forest Enhancement Program.

Field events will feature tours on private forests highlighting topics such as selective harvesting, managed plantations, value-added, riparian zones, pre-commercial and commercial thinnings and much more. Transportation is provided to and from all field sites (hay rides).

Residents and visitors alike are invited to come and learn more about Island forest ecosystems, how people use and manage private forests, and the role of forests in our environment, economy and society.

For more information, contact Todd Lafrance (902) 854-7260 or visit www.peiforests.ca.