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Seedlings, planting tools and technical assistance will be provided for participants at the planting sites.

Planting activities can also be pre-arranged for schools and organisations at selected sites. Interested groups can contact the Agriculture and Fisheries Department's (AFD) Education Section on 2733 2121.

Mr Yip said that the main objective of the Community Tree Planting Scheme, now in its 40th year, was to encourage local residents' active participation in the greening of the territory.

He pointed out the scheme was a continuation of a territory-wide tree planting programme started in the early 1950s which had gradually turned eroded hillsides into woodlands.

"Since the 1980s, some 300,000 trees had been planted in country parks under the scheme each year, including many local species. These trees had enriched the territory's natural habitat and bio-diversity," he added.

He reiterated that the success of the scheme owed much to the public participation and support of many community organisations including the local Lions Clubs.

Also speaking at today's ceremony, Chairman of the Country and Marine Parks Board, Professor Jim Chi-yung said that the scheme, attracting more than 20,000 participants each year, would help enhance local residents' awareness on protecting trees and nature conservation.

"Trees can prevent soil erosion, conserve water resources, provide natural habitat for wildlife and enhance bio-diversity of our countryside."

The opportunity of physically planting trees by the public is an effective means to promote the message of countryside conservation. Dr Jim said.

Also present at the ceremony were the Lions Clubs District Governor, Mr So Chun-yu; Chairman of Country and Marine Parks Board's Public Relations committee. Mr Victor Hui; Chairman of the Board's Country Parks Committee, Dr Tam Wing-kun and Chairman of the Sai Kung District Board, Mr Ng Sze-fuk.

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