The Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority (GRCA) completes scheduled, selective harvest of Red Pine plantations in the Ganaraska Forest each year.
These logging operations, guided by the Forest Management Plan, facilitate the growth of native tree species, like Red Oak, White Pine and Sugar Maple, all of which were included in the initial landscape restoration plans when the Forest was being planted over 80 years ago.
Planned Harvest Operation Locations Map
To view the planned harvest operation locations, please view or download the following map.
Overview of Operations
Operations will take place across the West Forest, including a combination of selective thinning and final removals, remaining active until February 28, 2026. During this time, all recreational trails within logging areas will remain closed for the safety of users and contractors. Additionally, hunting in or accessing trails through logging areas is prohibited.
While a start date is to be confirmed, operations are expected to begin in the coming weeks. Rolling closures will be implemented as harvest operations progress to minimize the impact on recreation. Harvest areas and trails within them will be re-opened when staff have verified trail conditions.
If you come upon a logging staging area, please leave the area immediately using the trails indicated as safe.
Please view the Ganaraska Forest Trails Map for logging operation locations, while planning to avoid these areas for your safety.
What To Expect
Some Forest Roads may remain open to facilitate the movement of logging equipment through the Forest. These logging routes will be flagged with yellow caution tape, indicating recreational users should exercise caution and reduce speeds to 20 km/h.
Logging equipment must be given the right-of-way, as well as ample space to operate.
Trail Flagging For Protection
In preparation for the harvests, recreational trails within the harvest areas have been flagged using pink tape. These flags help contractors see and minimize damage to trails, particularly through the snowy, winter months when trails can be impossible to see.
Protecting existing trails is important and relies on these pink flags remaining visible.
Additional Logging Safety Reminders can be found by visiting the GRCA website.
If you have any questions regarding logging operations or the Ganaraska Forest Trails Map, please contact the GRCA during office hours at 905.885.8173 or by emailing info@grca.on.ca.