About the
We Celebrated the Mackenzie Region of Northwestern Alberta as Canada's Forest Capital for 2024 & 2025
Exploring our deep connection to the boreal forest, our rich heritage, and our commitment to sustainable forest management across 80,000 km² of pristine wilderness.
What is the Forest Capital of Canada?
The FCC designation was established in 1979. It celebrates a community or a region for its connectivity to the forest.
"The Forest Capital of Canada designation helps recognize how we are all connected to the forest, and the integral role forestry plays in the Mackenzie Region of Northwest Alberta is apparent. We are excited to see their forestry celebrations unfold in 2024." - Doug Reid, Past President, CIF-IFC
The FCC program focuses on the valuable role forests play in the socio-economic and environmental health of our communities—past, present and future—while also recognizing and celebrating the rich forest heritage and commitment to sustainable forest management practices across Canada.
Our Forest Capital Mission 2024-2025
The Mackenzie Region's designation as Forest Capital of Canada 2024-2025 celebrated our deep connection to the boreal forest and our commitment to sustainable forestry practices. Throughout this two-year period, our mission focused on three key pillars:
Empowering Communities
The FCC2024 Board partnered with communities, non-profits, businesses and organizations to build on scheduled events and develop new celebrations throughout 2024-2025.
Collaborative Strength
We celebrated across the region with events and legacy projects, supported by partners like Mackenzie County, Town of High Level, and regional forestry companies.
Celebrate & Engage
"We are confident our region will work together throughout the year and take every opportunity to celebrate and showcase our forest and our connection to it." - Lisa Wardley, Board Co-Chair (2024)
What is the Mackenzie Region?
The Mackenzie Region of Northwestern Alberta accounts for nearly 80,000 km² of Boreal Forest. This is a substantial landmass—larger than New Brunswick—and over 70% of the region's citizens are involved with, rely on or work in the forest in some capacity.
The Mackenzie Region has several important industries including forestry, energy, agriculture, trapping and tourism. It's home to a rich history and vibrant cultures.
Key Industries
What comes to mind when we think about the forest in the Mackenzie Region?
"Lately, it might be wildfires. But, if you really think about it, everything we do here is connected to the forest or the land. It's where we live, and it makes us who we are as individuals and as a community. Being the Forest Capital of Canada is something to honour and celebrate." - Lisa Wardley, FCC2024 Co-Chair & Councillor of Mackenzie County
Our Connection to the Forest
Where We Live
The forest is our home, providing the foundation for our communities and way of life.
Who We Are
The forest shapes our identity as individuals and strengthens us as a community.
What We Celebrate
Being the Forest Capital of Canada is an honor we celebrate with pride and responsibility.
Our 2024 & 2025 Celebrations
Explore the events and activities from our time as Forest Capital of Canada (2024 & 2025) and discover our deep connection to the boreal forest.
View Event Archive