It’s National Forest Week.

Forests Minister Bruce Ralson says our forests have been front of mind for many British Columbians this year as wildfires and drought have left their mark on people and communities, as well as waters and lands in all corners of the province.

In a statement, Ralson pays a special thanks, on behalf of all British Columbians, to ’’all the hard-working firefighters who bravely faced the worst fire season on record in B.C.’’

He also thanked First Nations, local government partners, the First Nations Emergency Services Society, B.C. forest industry contractors and the BC Cattlemen’s Association for all they’ve done this wildfire season.

Ralson says we'll see the impact of this year well into the future.

BC Wildfire Service says there are still more than 400 active blazes burning across the province, with more than 150 ranked as out of control.

To learn more, visit Canadian Institute of Forestry.