In 2012, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 21 March the International Day of Forests.

Forests and Education – Learn to Love Forests

When we drink a glass of water, write in a notebook, take medicine for a fever or build a house, we do not always make the connection with forests. And yet, these and many other aspects of our lives are linked to forests in one way or another.

• Forests cover one third of the Earth’s land mass.
• Around 1.6 billion people – including more than 2,000 indigenous cultures – depend on forests for their livelihoods, medicines, fuel, food and shelter.
• In developed countries, up to 25% of all medicinal drugs are plant-based.
• Forests are the most biologically-diverse ecosystems on land, home to more than 80% of the terrestrial species of animals, plants and insects.

Yet despite all of these priceless ecological, economic, social and health benefits, global deforestation continues at an alarming rate.

The Day celebrates and raises awareness of the importance of all types of forests. This year the International Day of Forests theme is Learn to Love Forests and seeks to underscore the importance of education at all levels in achieving sustainable biodiversity conservation.

We have some fabulous woods and forests near Whitchurch criss crossed by Public Rights of Way, so why not download these children’s Woodland Trust activity sheets and see what you can discover. Woodland Trust twig-id-sheet     Woodland trust – Springtime spots     Woodland Trust bird_hunt

Here are some suggestions for a woodland walk near you.

Bradley Woods – Natural deciduous woodland just 2 miles north of Whitchurch – Bradley Woods Walk

Harewood Forest Wherwell – This is the largest area of ancient natural woodland within Hampshire, outside of the New Forest. It provides an excellent woodland habitat for wildlife, including roe deer and buzzards. Harewood Forest Trail

Blackwood Forest Micheldever – Managed by Forestry England – Explore the variety of paths, and discover the stunning natural scenery. Discover Blackwood Forest