Each year the Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority (GRCA) completes scheduled, selective harvest of Red Pine plantations in the Ganaraska Forest.
These logging operations 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 planted over 80 years ago, as well as being guided by the Forest Management Plan.
Operations this year will include a combination of selective thinnings and final removals. Operations will take place across the West Forest and will remain active until February 28, 2025. 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.
Please view the Ganaraska Forest Trails Map for logging operation locations, while planning to avoid these areas for your safety: https://grca.on.ca/forest-recreation/ganaraska-forest-trails-map/
Planned harvest operation locations for the 2024 season can be viewed by downloading the following map.
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 to reduce speeds to 20 km/h. When encountered, logging equipment should be given ample space to operate and the right-of-way.
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 to be visible.
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.
All trail closure updates will be relayed via the Ganaraska Forest Trails Map. Weekly closure updates will be provided Monday mornings for users to plan their trips to the Ganaraska Forest accordingly.
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.