John Desjarlais

Many Canadians may not realize we are soon entering National Forest Week, a time to reflect on forests’ vital role in our history, economy and future. National Forest Week, happening September 21–27, 2025, reminds us to balance economic opportunities with sustainability. Indigenous-led forest ventures already exemplify this. Indigenous communities have managed forests responsibly for thousands of years, and their involvement has increased significantly, with more land and resources under their control, including forest tenures. …The future of sustainable forestry depends on increasing Indigenous participation. This includes stronger industry-Indigenous partnerships, expanded forest tenures, fair forest sector procurement policies, better Indigenous recruitment and retention within the forestry world, and greater integration of Indigenous knowledge into policy frameworks. Let’s celebrate National Forest Week by honouring Canada’s original forest managers and their lasting legacy in sustainable forest management.