Information Management

The importance of maintaining a current Geographic Information System (GIS) or digital environmental databases is important in conserving natural features. This information is now available to our stakeholders and the public.

Achievements and Ongoing Activities

• York Region Significant Woodlands Study - This study, endorsed by Regional Council in 2006, defines and identifies important woodlands across York Region.
• York Region partners with the Ministry of Natural Resources to keep inventories of wetlands and streams up to date.

York Region's Significant Woodlands Study

York Region retained a team of consulting professionals to undertake a Significant Woodlands Study for the Region. The purpose of this study is to update the Region's forest cover information using 2002 ortho-photography, and to establish and apply criteria to determine the significance of woodlots within the Region. The final version of the Report is included below.

• Significant Woodlands Study Report PDF (November 2005)

This information is required to assist with a number of Greening Strategy initiatives relating to the protection and enhancement of a healthy natural heritage system for future generations, including updating the Significant Forest Cover mapping in the Regional Official Plan through a subsequent Official Plan Amendment.

The purpose of this study is to analyze the science around significant woodlands relative to the Regional Landscape and natural heritage condition with the intent of delineating and defining significant woodlands. This study does not include the implementation of the findings through a Regional Official Plan Amendment (ROPA) or any other policy development. Implementation of the findings, including a ROPA will be undertaken subsequent to the study with additional public consultation and input.

Public Consultation

For more information, please contact Sandra Malcic, Regional Greening Co-ordinator:
email:  greening@york.ca
phone: (905)830-4444 Ext. 5274
Toll free: 1-877-464-9675