Released on August 19, 2016
Teachers became students this week, as a dozen Saskatchewan educators learned about forest management and ecology during the Ministry of Environment’s third annual forestry teacher’s tour from August 17 to 19.The three day tour gave teachers a first-hand look at natural forest disturbances such as wildfire and wind, how the forest ages and how forest management works.
“Each year, this tour connects teachers with forestry experts and provides them with a variety of hands-on experiences in the field,” Environment’s Manager of Forest Practices and Science David Stevenson said. “By spending time in the forest and seeing for themselves what’s happening there, teachers gain an understanding that they can share with their students.”
Elizabeth Thacker, kindergarten teacher at Connaught School in Regina, was part of this week’s tour.
“Teaching kindergarten, I try to include as much outdoor education as possible,” Thacker said. “I take the students outside, and we’ll do patterns with pine cones and leaves, incorporating the knowledge from the tour.”
Thacker said the helicopter overview and sawmill tour were particularly valuable.
“First, we went to a harvest block and watched where the trees are cut,” Thacker said. “Then we went to the mill and followed the process from log to two-by-four, and how it goes from forest to usable materials. Being in the forest and having someone show us different plants and trees was a really unique experience.”
In addition to learning about the science behind sustainable forest management, teachers had an opportunity to view the forest from a variety of perspectives, including First Nations. Tour stops include wildfire and wind-damaged areas, an active harvesting operation and reforested sites. A highlight was the chance for a birds-eye view of natural forest patterns from a helicopter.
“I highly recommend it,” Thacker said. “If you like being outside and you want a once-in-a-lifetime experience, this is the professional development for you.”
Educators may contact the Ministry of Environment’s Forest Service at 306-953-2221 any time throughout the year to inquire about next year’s tour.
The tour is co-ordinated by the Prince Albert Model Forest, in partnership with the ministry.
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For more information, contact:
Ron Podbielski
Environment
Regina
Phone: 306-787-6595
Email: ron.podbielski@gov.sk.ca