Lake Simcoe Conservation will once again be having some logging performed in Durham Forest this winter. The area is pretty close to the main parking lot and does have some single track in the working area. Working with the LSRCA we’ll do our best to minimize the impact to the trails in that area. If any trails are impacted, for whatever reason, we’ll arrange a build in the early spring to do some repair and restoration.

Durham Forest Winter Harvest 2010 Map.

Full details after the jump.

As part of ongoing forest management activities, timber harvesting operations are scheduled to take place this winter in the Main Tract.  The Main Tract is located on the east side of Concession 7, south of Goodwood Road (#21), in the Township of Uxbridge.  It is expected that these operations will commence during the third or fourth week of January, and continue into mid-March.  During this time the forest will remain open for recreational activities, although some trail sections will be closed to ensure worker and public safety, and to allow the operation of forestry equipment and removal of timber from the forest.  Please obey all posted signs and do not go into closed areas.

Forest management activities have occurred in Durham Regional Forest since the 1920’s, when these forests were planted to protect the fragile soils of the Oak Ridges Moraine.  The plantation forests have grown over the years, and harvesting operations have been undertaken to promote continued forest development and environmental protection; encourage reestablishment of native species such as white pine, red oak, maple, and beech; and to improve and maintain wildlife habitat.  All revenues generated through the sale of timber are re-invested in the ongoing management of the forest.

This harvest will involve the removal of red pine trees, to be used primarily as utility (eg. telephone, hydro) poles.  All trees removed have been marked in accordance with an approved silvicultural prescription.  Trees that provide benefits such as nesting locations or food for wildlife have been protected from removal or damage by harvesting operations.  The operations will be undertaken under the supervision of the qualified forest management professionals of the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority.

Durham Regional Forest is owned by Durham Region, and managed under agreement by the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority.  If you have any questions about these forest management operations, or other activities in Durham Regional Forest, please contact the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority at 905-895-1281.

Thanks,

Philip J. Davies, BSc., MFC, CMMI

Manager, Watershed Stewardship

Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority