"The forest stewardship award has recognized the stewardship efforts of more than a hundred individuals and organizations since 1998," says David Brackett, president of Wildlife Habitat Canada.  "The award has raised the profile of forest stewardship across Canada and has increased public awareness of the need for stewardship and biodiversity conservation."

Among the 2006 winners of the forest stewardship award is:

• Leo André, Moose Creek - Mr. André's sugar bush and demonstration forest showcase the importance of sustainable management for multiple forest values.

The forest stewardship award was presented at the annual general meeting of the Eastern Ontario Model Forest, held at the Crichton Cultural Community Centre. Recipients of the forest stewardship award receive a limited edition print of a painting entitled New Morning, by BC artist Don Li-Leger.

The founding partners of the Forest Stewardship Recognition Program are Wildlife Habitat Canada, the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, the Canadian Forest Service and the Forest Products Association of Canada.

Additional information about the forest stewardship award is available (click here).

For more information contact:

Mr. Lynn McIntyre
Director of Stewardship Programs
Wildlife Habitat Canada
Tel: 1-800-669-7919 ext. 234