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ATCO Joins Guinness World Record Attempt

While documentation is still being reviewed by Guinness, whether the record is set or not, the local company’s role in this momentous Guinness World Record attempt can be enjoyed for years to come.

On May 20, ATCO Wood Products of Fruitvale joined an international effort to set the world record for the most trees (250,000) planted in one hour simultaneously by teams in a variety of locations across the continent.

Three ATCO employees and 23 from Castlegar-based Greenpeaks Holdings participated, planting at Neptune Creek Drainage, about nine kilometres north of Rossland, from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m.

The planters, all locals who have worked for the softwood veneer producer for a number of years.

In addition to the 26 tree planters, two impartial observers, one steward and two ATCO employees stood by at the reforestation site, documenting the event.

 

The Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI), spurred the effort as a unique way to engage communities that support its commitment to sustainable management of forest resources. Recognizing that everyday decisions directly affect the health and future of forests, ATCO has been SFI certified since 2006.

SFI environmental certification requires participants to engage in research activities that improve forest health and productivity, in addition to sustainable forest management practices.

 

The area replanted, Cutting Permit 227 Block 1, is frequently utilized by those in need of firewood, hunters, berry pickers, hikers and mountain bikers.

 

Once the documentation is in and recorded and the record set, ATCO plans to post a sign to announce that the trees planted on the cut block were part of the Guinness World Record.

ATCO, alone, plants over 1 million trees every year, or about four trees planted for every one harvested.