The Mackenzie Region of Alberta has been named the Forest Capital of Canada for the second year in a row.
The FCC designation has been a tradition across the country every year since 1979 and is awarded by the Canadian Institute of Forestry. The award aims to celebrate communities or regions for their connection to the forest, and Alberta Minister of Forestry and Parks Todd Loewen says his riding, Grande Prairie-Mackenzie, continues to embrace the natural beauty in its own backyard.
“Congratulations to the Mackenzie Region for being recognized as the Forest Capital of Canada for the second consecutive year,” he says. “This title reflects the region’s connection to our natural environment and its commitment to forestry education and responsible stewardship.”
The Canadian Institute of Forestry indicates that the FCC title focuses on the role forests play in the economic and environmental health of Canadian communities, and according to the Canadian Institute of Forestry, more than 70 per cent of the Mackenzie Region’s 25,000 residents are involved with, rely on, or work in the forest in some capacity.
Prior to the Mackenzie Region’s win in 2024, the last time Western Canada held the title was in 2014.
