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Forestry Management

Bruce County owns approximately 4,725 hectares of forest land managed by the Transportation and Environmental Services Department. These forest tracts vary in size and location and are open to residents and visitors year-round.

This webpage provides valuable insight about County forests and the Bruce County Forest Conservation Bylaw but also serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in sustainable forest management. Whether you are a woodlot owner or a forestry enthusiast, you will find the resources and insights needed to make informed decisions about your woodlot.

Bruce County oversees approximately 4,725 hectares of forest, which is home to a variety of plants, bird species, mammals, amphibians, and insects, contributing to the area's ecological balance. County forests also provide a range of recreational opportunities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding in designated areas, allowing people of all ages to engage with nature, improve well being, and appreciate the environment.

Bruce County is a member of the Eastern Ontario Model Forest’s Forest Certification Program and has achieved Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) certification (FSC® C018800). FSC® is an international, membership-based, non-profit organization that supports environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial, and economically viable management of the world's forests.

Forest Management Plans are currently being updated to ensure sustainable use and preservation of our natural resources, incorporating best practices, stakeholder input, and community engagement. These updated plans are expected to be finalized by the end of 2025.

The County also oversees the Bruce County Forest Conservation Bylaw, an important regulation aimed at preserving the health and sustainability of local woodlands. This law applies to any woodlots that are one hectare or larger and regulates the harvesting of trees to ensure that logging activities are conducted responsibly and sustainably.

Forest conservation by-laws, referred to as tree cutting by-laws have been used by municipal governments in Ontario for decades. They are intended to prevent the over harvesting of forests while promoting sustainable forestry practices.

The Bruce County Forest Conservation Bylaw regulates the cutting of trees in the County that are one hectare in size and greater. The bylaw does not apply to landowners removing trees for personal purposes such as firewood.

Permit Types:

Contact information: transportationinfo@brucecounty.on.ca

In Ontario, private landowners play a crucial role in sustainable forestry and ecosystem conservation. Good forestry practices on private land help maintain biodiversity, improve land health, and ensure sustainable use of forest resources while benefiting future generations. Good forest management practices provide a wide range of benefits, ensuring forests are maintained as valuable ecological, economic, and cultural resources. These practices promote sustainability and balance between utilization and conservation. Below are the key values of good forest management:

Develop a Forest Management Plan (FMP)

  • A Forest Management Plan outlines goals for the property, such as timber production, wildlife habitat, recreation, or conservation.
  • Consulting a professional forester or registered forestry consultant ensures the plan aligns with sustainable practices.

Tree Marking/Harvesting

  • Choose methods like single-tree selection or shelterwood harvests instead of clear-cutting to preserve forest structure and biodiversity.
  • Remove declining trees while retaining healthy specimens to promote natural regeneration whenever possible.
  • Retain veteran and super-canopy trees. These trees provide the best chance for regeneration.

Reforestation and Regeneration

  • Replant native species to replace harvested trees or enhance understocked areas.
  • Allow for natural regeneration in suitable areas by protecting seedlings and young growth.

Protect Riparian Zones/p>

  • Maintain buffer strips of vegetation along waterways and wetlands to protect water quality and prevent soil erosion.
  • Avoid disturbing these areas during logging or other activities.

Enhance Wildlife Habitat

  • Leave wildlife trees (standing dead trees, cavity trees), scattered conifers, and coarse woody debris on the ground for wildlife nesting and shelter.
  • Plant or maintain a diversity of tree and shrub species to support different animal species.
  • Be mindful of nesting trees, ensure these trees are retained and appropriate buffers are put in place to protect them.

Manage Forest Health

  • Regularly monitor for signs of pests, diseases, or invasive species.
  • Implement control measures to reduce the spread of threats like the emerald ash borer or gypsy moth.
  • Practice sanitation cutting, which involves removing infected or infested trees.

Reduce Soil Erosion and Compaction

  • Avoid logging activities during wet seasons to prevent soil damage.
  • Use proper skid trail and road layout to minimize disturbances to the forest floor.

Participate in the Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program (MFTIP)

  • Enroll in the MFTIP to receive property tax reductions in exchange for implementing a sustainable management plan.
  • Plans must be prepared by an approved Managed Forest Plan Approver and updated regularly.
  • The MFTIP must be renewed on a 10-year basis.

Encourage Native Plant Species

  • Avoid introducing non-native or invasive species, which can outcompete native plants and disrupt ecosystems.
  • Foster native undergrowth and trees for long-term forest health.

Work with Forestry Professionals

  • Hire a Registered Professional Forester (RPF) or Certified Forest Technician for expert advice and planning.
  • Collaborate with local conservation authorities or stewardship groups for additional resources and support.
  • Contact County staff to learn about local professionals/consultants to help you with your woodlot.

Leave Veteran/Super Canopy Trees

  • Preserve large, old trees for ecological and aesthetic purposes.
  • Veteran trees provide seeds, habitat, and a connection to natural heritage.

Plan for Climate Resilience

  • Adapted to changing climate conditions by planting a variety of native tree species.
  • Diversify forest composition to mitigate the risks of species-specific diseases and climate-related challenges.

Additional Resources for Ontario Landowners

  • Ontario Woodlot Association (OWA): Offers education and support for sustainable woodlot management.
  • Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR): Offers education and information about forest management as well as various other environmental resources.
  • Local Conservation Authorities: Offer technical advice and grants for tree planting and habitat restoration.
    • Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority
    • Grey Sauble Conservation Authority
    • Maitland Valley Conservation Authority

Invasive species pose a significant challenge to forestry, affecting forest health, biodiversity, and ecosystem stability. These non-native plants, animals, fungi, and pathogens can outcompete native species, disrupt ecological processes, and lead to economic losses in timber and forest management. To learn more about invasive species in Ontario visit the links below.

Contact us

General Inquiries

Transportation and Environmental Services

Tel : 519-881-2400

Transportationinfo@brucecounty.on.ca

Services

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