JACKSON, Wyo. — Bridger Teton National Forest (BTNF) is reminding the community that this week is National Forest Week, a celebration of the 193-million-acre National Forest System and a reason to get outside.
“For those of use that are fortunate to live in or around the Bridger-Teton this may seem like every week, but let’s face it we’re spoiled by the opportunity that surrounds us,” BTNF wrote in a Facebook post.
The National Forest Foundation (NFF), the U.S. Forest Service’s (USFS) congressionally chartered non-profit partner, established National Forest Week to raise awareness of the interconnectedness between the health of communities and the health of National Forests.
According to NFF, National Forests improve air quality by absorbing harmful pollutants, purify and provide water, mitigate for the effects of climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide, provide important natural resources for industry and communities and support the local economies of gateway communities.
This year’s theme is Forest Mode, aimed at encouraging people to think about making the shift between the busyness of daily lives to being present in the moment.
“Find your Forest Mode,” the USFS says. “Let yourself discover the juicy delight of finding wild huckleberries on the side of the trail, the simple joy of wading in a creek on a hot summer day or the wonder of stargazing long after your campfire has died.”
The BTNF comprises a large part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, the largest intact ecosystem in the lower 48, and reminds all visitors to recreate responsibly and leave no trace. Learn about drone use in BTNF here.
