Aerial view of the Mackenzie Region boreal forest
Official Designation
2024 & 2025

About the Forest Capital of Canada

Celebrating the Mackenzie Region of Northwestern Alberta as Canada's Forest Capital for 2024-2025

Discover 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?

1979

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."

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.

Boreal forest in the Mackenzie Region
Since 1979
Celebrating Communities

What is the Mackenzie Region?

80,000 km²
of Boreal Forest
70%+
of citizens connected to forest
Larger
than New Brunswick

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

Forestry
Energy
Agriculture
Trapping
Tourism
Forest landscape representing the connection to the land

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."

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.

Celebrate with Us

Join us in celebrating our designation as Forest Capital of Canada 2024-2025 and our deep connection to the boreal forest