Trouble in the Forest

For centuries the idea of the forest fire as a destructive force has been perpetuated and, where possible, fires have been suppressed in order to protect the environment, the populace and the economy. Filmed in several of Canada's best-known national parks, From Ashes to Forest examines the effects of forest fire versus fire suppression in the wilderness. The film shows that in many instances forest fires, rather than being "monstrous engines of destruction," are both essential and beneficial--for plant renewal, healthy growth, soil enrichment, and to provide new environments for wildlife.

This film about the industries that draw their wealth from the raw material supplied by Canada's forests shows how this wealth is being preserved by a long-term conservation program. Filmed in the rain forests of the British Columbia coast, it shows how giant conifers are felled, transported by water routes to sawmills, and cut into lumber or reduced to Canada's greatest single export, newsprint. Realization of the need for conservation has led to an extensive program of aerial stocktaking and a system of planned cutting and reforestation.

Sur toute la partie est de l'Amérique du Nord, les arbres meurent et les sols sont empoisonnés par les pluies acides. Ce film, dont l'éminent scientifique et communicateur David Suzuki assure la narration, s'interroge sur l'inquiétant phénomène du dépérissement des forêts et propose certaines solutions. En anglais avec sous-titres français.