In celebration of National Forest Week, the Mackenzie Region of Alberta—crowned the Forest Capital of Canada (FCC) 2024—is excited to unveil Boris the Spruce Tree. A new animated character, Boris is set to become Northwestern Alberta’s boreal buddy.

Lisa Wardley

“Our forests have played a vital role in the social, recreational and economic well-being of our communities for generations,” said Lisa Wardley, FCC 2024 Co-Chair and Mackenzie County Councillor. “Looking to the future, we’d like to see the Boris brand become an integral part of our region. I envision Boris the Tourist or Boris the Farmer.” - Lisa Wardley, FCC 2024 Co-Chair and Mackenzie County Councillor

Boris will be rolled-out over a two-week period. First, more than 5,500 students in the Mackenzie Region will get an exclusive look at Boris during National Forest Week (Sept. 22-28).

“All our kids will receive a package that include Boris stickers, a colouring page, pencil crayons, and a postcard they can mail to Boris if they have questions or stories—he might even answer,” said Wardley. “Plus, they’ll be the first to see and hear the Boris music video and theme song.”

On October 9, Boris will be presented at the Alberta Forest Products Association’s conference in Banff, AB, at which time Boris’ interactive learning journey will become available to all at www.fcc2024.com.

“We’re so excited to launch this initiative. There’s so much to it. Along his journey, Boris will meet local forest educators, experts, and historians,”said Wardley.

The interactive learning tool promises to be diverse in its subject matter—touching on local history, an Indigenous perspective, information about tree health and tree planting, sustainability, safety, and more.

“There’s a 360-degree look inside a real bear’s den and a personal tour of our wildfire centre. Kids can even experience a helicopter ride and a kayak trip,” said Wardley. “Boris gives us a chance to share our pride, highlights what sets us apart, and brings back the joy of discovery to the outdoors,”said Wardley.

Boris’ co-creators Kathleen and Dražen Rukavina of Long Sleeve Productions developed the animated character and captured on-location footage and interviews over several days. Then, they integrated Boris in the live action. They describe Boris’ adventure as a mix between a nature show and video game.

Co-creators Kathleen and Dražen Rukavina

“We’re excited to introduce Boris as well as the local experts who shared their deep passion and understanding of the boreal forest in such an entertaining and relatable way,”said Kathleen Rukavina. “We hope Boris sparks the curiosity to explore and form deeper connections with the forest—whether as adventurers, or perhaps even in future careers.”

Since January, the Mackenzie Region has celebrated being Forest Capital of Canada 2024 at numerous events, which can be followed on FCC’s social media channels and website. In July, Alberta Forest Products Association representatives travelled over 1,500 km (Edmonton to High Level and back) to record several podcast episodes for Forestry Talks, hosted by Aspen Dudzic.

“Thanks to this national recognition, and to public and private funding, we’ve been able to invest so much into our communities and promote and educate beyond our borders. Now, we’re excited to introduce Boris, a lasting legacy with unlimited possibilities, who will show everyone how fun and exciting our big boreal backyard is,”said Wardley.