[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 37, Number 43 (Monday, October 29, 2001)]
[Page 1517]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7487--National Forest Products Week, 2001

 October 19, 2001

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Our Nation has been blessed with and sustained by its many natural 
resources. Among these resources, one that has provided us with both 
vital products and much enjoyment is America's forestland.
    Throughout our Nation's history, our forests have provided paper 
products, construction materials for dwellings and furniture, and fuel 
for warmth and cooking. Timbers harvested from our lands have been 
fundamental to the growth and expansion of America. Although our 
reliance on our forests has changed during the last century, they 
continue to remain an invaluable resource.
    The beautiful cherry wood of Pennsylvania, the mighty oaks of the 
Midwest, the pines of the South, and the firs of the West are loved by 
millions of Americans, who find solace and relaxation in camping, 
hiking, and enjoying recreational activities among these trees. And for 
many Americans working in the construction, manufacturing, and 
recreation industries, our forests represent economic security for their 
families and communities. They serve as important ecosystems, sheltering 
and feeding wildlife, protecting soil, and purifying water and air. Our 
timberlands also serve as an important symbol of our Nation's beauty and 
economic strength. Now, more than ever, we have a responsibility to 
ensure that they remain healthy and productive.
    By working together to develop and promote sensible policies, we can 
achieve success in protecting these natural resources and pristine 
areas. My Administration will work closely with Federal, State, and 
local officials, as well as private landowners to encourage sustainable 
land management techniques, utilize the latest in scientific research, 
foster local stewardship of resources, and support innovative methods of 
pollution control. If we remain vigilant, our forests will provide 
products, recreation, clean air, clean water, and wildlife habitat for 
generations to come.
    In recognition of the economic, environmental, and recreational 
importance of our forests, the Congress, by Public Law 86-753 (36 U.S.C. 
123), has designated the week beginning on the third Sunday in October 
of each year as ``National Forest Products Week'' and has authorized and 
requested the President to issue a proclamation in observance of this 
week.
    Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States of 
America, do hereby proclaim October 21 through October 27, 2001, as 
National Forest Products Week. I call upon all Americans to observe that 
week with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this nineteenth day 
of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand one, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
sixth.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., October 24, 
2001]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on October 
25. This item was not received in time for publication in the 
appropriate issue.