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(Government of Alberta)
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Minister Loewen acknowledges Bertie Beaver’s 65th birthday and National Forest Week

Sep 18, 2023 | 4:35 PM

Minister of Forestry and Parks Todd Loewen issued the following statement from Red Deer Regional Airport Monday, on Bertie Beaver’s 65th birthday and National Forest Week:

“Today, our government proudly celebrates the 65th birthday of Alberta’s wildfire prevention mascot, Bertie Beaver.

“Bertie was gifted to Alberta Wildfire 65 years ago by Walt Disney as a thank you for wildlife documentaries filmed in the Kananaskis region, and he has been a champion of Alberta’s wildfire prevention efforts ever since.

“Throughout this time, Bertie has visited schools, educated the public and appeared on many Alberta Wildfire prevention posters, buttons and maps, and in student activity books. Our government is exceptionally proud of Bertie’s legacy and we look forward to many more years of his wildfire awareness and prevention efforts.

“This week also marks National Forest Week. We remain committed to a responsible, systems-based approach to sustainable forest management that fosters the long-term health and resilience of our province’s forested lands.

“I would like to recognize and thank everyone at Alberta Wildfire for their incredible service and hard work throughout this particularly challenging wildfire season. Your dedication never goes unnoticed, and we appreciate everything you do to keep our communities safe and protect our province’s forests.

“Bertie, Alberta Wildfire and all who call this province home share the responsibility of maintaining and enhancing the health of our forests for the benefit of present and future generations of Albertans.

“On behalf of Alberta’s government, I wish Bertie a happy 65th birthday, I acknowledge the importance of National Forest Week and I celebrate the incredible team at Alberta Wildfire.”