Mankranso (Ash), Dec 31, GNA- Mr Justice Owusu Adjei, the Ahafo-Ano South District Environmental Health Officer, has called on communities in the district to form environmental clubs. The clubs, he said, could educate the people on the importance of not destroying the environment particularly along rivers and streams. Addressing a meeting of chiefs, assembly members, tree growers, area councillors, forest committees and timber contractors on the environment, Mr Adjei said the clubs could also help to check the pollution of rivers and streams, check erosion as well as maintain and beautify the environment.

The meeting was organised by the District Forestry Forum in conjunction with the Forest Services Division of the Forestry Commission at Mankranso in Ashanti.

Mr Adjei said there was so much destruction of the environment to the extent that something drastic was to be done.

Mr Kwaku Obeng Boateng, the District Chief Executive, accused major stakeholders in the forest of being involved in illegal logging in the district.

Nana Yaa Pokuaa, an official of the Forest Services Division, stressed the need for the protection of the forests and asked all stakeholders to commit themselves into ensuring the sustainability of the forests.

Nana Anim Ababio, chief of Wioso and chairman of the Forum, warned sawmillers against engaging in illegal logging and also stop obtaining woods from illegal chainsaw operators.