I got word from the Lake Simcoe and Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA) recently letting us know that the logging started in early January has finished.

Our Trails Team will have a look at the area and impacted trails and work with the LSRCA to restore, improve or permanently close them as appropriate.

From the Phil Davies of the LSRCA:

As part of ongoing forest management activities, timber harvesting operations were undertaken 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.  These operations are now complete, and all trails have been reopened.

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 most recent harvest involved the removal of red pine trees, to be used primarily as utility (eg. telephone, hydro) poles.  All trees removed were marked in accordance with an approved silvicultural prescription.  Trees that provide benefits such as nesting locations or food for wildlife were protected from removal or damage by harvesting operations.  The operations were 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.

Thank-you once again for your ongoing support of the forest, and for sharing this message with your respective groups.