DCNR: iConserve PA Focusing on 'Trees and Forests' in 2010

Ask Questions of Tree Experts, Learn about Tree Issues from New Animated Tree Family on iConserve Website

HARRISBURG, Pa., April 27 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Just in time for Arbor Day this week, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary John Quigley announced today that "Trees and Forests" are the focus of the iConserve PA initiative for 2010.

"It's very apt that Pennsylvania literally means 'Penn's Woods' – trees and forests are an integral part of our past and our future," Quigley said. "Trees provide the oxygen we need to breathe, and they store the carbon dioxide that contributes to climate change. They beautify our cities, towns and backyards; shade our homes; shield us from wind; and provide homes for plants and wildlife. Our forests, meanwhile, serve as a playground for millions of outdoor recreation enthusiasts. The wood that is harvested from Pennsylvania's forests also supports a strong industry here and supplies some of the finest timber available in the world.

"For all of these reasons, it's important that we conserve wooded areas, plant trees, buy sustainable forest products, and explore and enjoy our forests. Our iConserve PA effort is providing information on how to do all of these things," Quigley added.

The iConserve PA initiative's site, www.iConservePA.org, has a wealth of information about trees and forests, and explains how people can help protect, conserve and renew these natural resources by simple steps such as planting a tree. Any tree put in the ground counts toward Pennsylvania's goal of planting one million trees by 2012. More information is available by following the link to TreeVitalize from the iConserve PA website.

Visitors to iConservePA.org also can pose a question electronically to an expert in the Bureau of Forestry for help with issues related to trees, plants and woodlands; find videos with foresters providing "how to" tips, including how to plant a tree; and a searchable database for choosing the best native tree for any location. Information about sustainably certified wood products, as well as maple syrup and artisan crafts is readily available, as well.

This year, the site also features "The Barkleavies: A Family Tree with Issues."  This animated cartoon teaches people in a fun way about issues such as invasive pests, sustainable harvesting and the importance of trees in stream buffers.

iConservePA.org also offers details on how to walk through the woods and leave no trace, how to get involved with outdoor recreation organizations depending on your passion links, and a link to www.ExplorePAtrails.com where people can find a forest adventure, information on where to see the largest trees in Pennsylvania, or trails near them.

Launched in 2008, the iConserve PA initiative encourages Pennsylvanians to make everyday efforts to conserve natural resources and to share their stories and get inspiration from others.  

Website visitors can subscribe to a free monthly electronic newsletter that includes fun facts and green tips. Also featured are simple commitments, next steps and lifestyle change ideas that can help anyone become familiar with conservation, grow their interest and take action.

For more information on "Trees and Forests," visit www.iConservePA.org or call 717-772-9101.

Media contact: Christina Novak, 717-772-9101

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources