Forest Exchange Boxes Displayed at U.S. Mission to the United Nations
Project Learning Tree, a program of the American Forest Foundation, takes kids outdoors and into the woods to experience nature and learn about the importance of forests. This nationwide network of environmental educators and students has compiled and decorated a “Forest Exchange Box” from each state to showcase the unique characteristics of America’s woodlands. These boxes will be displayed at a variety of events across the United States throughout 2011 to celebrate International Year of Forests.
The decision to select just six initially for the display at the US Mission to the UN was especially tough, but Forest Exchange Boxes from Florida, Hawaii, Indiana, Montana, New Hampshire, and New Mexico were chosen as great, representative samples. The display will run for two weeks, through February 4th, in conjunction with the UN Forum on Forests meeting and an International Year of Forests reception for UN Delegates and U.S. Administration officials.
The boxes have been compiled by students, of various grade levels, their teachers, and others passionate about forests. Through these boxes we learn who owns and manages forests; the benefits we get from forests – like clean air, water, and recreation; examples of tree and wood products we use every day; and how individuals and communities use, enjoy, and depend on forests.
In March, all 50 state Forest Exchange Boxes, plus one from the District of Columbia, will be displayed on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC in conjunction with a Congressional briefing hosted by AFF on the state of America’s forests, and the role of environmental education in helping inform the next generation about the value of America’s forests.
