Celebrating National Forest Week 2026

On behalf of York Regional Council and The Regional Municipality of York, I am proud to recognize National Forest Week, taking place from September 20 to 26, 2026.

This year’s theme, Forest Pathways: Innovation and Sustainability, highlights the importance of caring for our forests today while planning for their future.

York Region is fortunate to have the York Regional Forest, one of our most valued natural assets. Spanning more than 2,600 hectares across 22 public tracts, the Forest offers more than 150 kilometres of trails for residents to walk, hike, bike, explore and connect with nature.

Protecting and growing this natural resource is an important part of building a sustainable and resilient York Region. Through the York Regional Forest Management Plan and our Greening Strategy, we are working to protect woodland areas, expand the Forest and increase tree canopy across the Region.

National Forest Week is also an opportunity to experience the Forest firsthand. I encourage residents to explore a local trail, learn more about the plants and wildlife around us or take part in York Region’s National Forest Week Festival on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at the Hollidge Tract in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville. 

Our forests are a legacy we have inherited and a responsibility we share. By caring for them today, we help to ensure they remain a vital part of York Region for generations to come.

Eric Jolliffe
York Region Chairman and CEO

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Media Contact: 
Corporate Communications, The Regional Municipality of York
Phone: 1-877-464-9675, ext. 71234 
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