ESCANABA -- The Logging Congress and Equipment Expo in Escanaba is an event the whole family can enjoy, but there's one exhibit that's especially geared for the kids.

It's called Growing UP Foresters, and it's in building 10 at the U.P. State Fairgrounds.  The exhibit is an educational experience for the kids that shows them the importance of all things forest-related.

There were different stations set up, from a fishing pond to a model railroad, and even a display of everyday items made up of ingredients found in a forest.

“The timber industry is so important to our local economy,” explains Growing UP Foresters barn superintendent, Michelle Labadie.  “It’s also important to the whole Upper Peninsula and actually nationwide.  You know, everybody uses wood, and we want to let everyone know that this is a renewable resource that we can take care of.”

Organizers said they hope the exhibit helps more kids learn about the importance and necessity of the forest industry.