On behalf of the IMFN, the IMFN Secretariat (IMFNS) sends its congratulations to Kyoto Prefecture, Japan, for their diligence and vision in the development of the Kyoto Model Forest over the past two years.

The inaugural meeting of the Shadan Hojin Kyoto Model Forest Association, a not-for-profit organization established to facilitate the ongoing development of the Kyoto Model Forest, took place on November 8, 2006. The Model Forest aims to protect and nurture the forests of Kyoto through the active involvement of local citizens and other stakeholders, and to contribute to the creation of a sustainable society by enhancing the ties between people and the surrounding forest.

Kyoto Prefecture has a rich and close relationship with its forests and landscapes, and has a globally important natural and cultural heritage to safeguard for future generations. With an initial budget for 2007 of approximately 90 million yen (USD765 000), the Kyoto Model Forest will implement projects to enhance forest maintenance, promote the “greening” of schools and communities, assist in the development of local forest enterprises, and support environmental-awareness and forest-study initiatives.

Welcome to the Kyoto Model Forest!