York Region is going beyond seeing the forest for the trees by developing a new long-term plan for protection and use of the York Regional Forest.

It’s in our Nature: Management Plan for the York Regional Forest 2019 to 2038 outlines a vision, achievable through the following three goals and key actions:

1. Strengthen Ecological Integrity Continue to strengthen the health, diversity, resiliency and sustainability of the York Regional Forest
2. Foster an Understanding of the Broader Benefits Demonstrate the Forest provides a wealth of environmental and social benefits, key to the Region’s vision of healthy, thriving communities
3. Inspire People Encourage public use that inspires respect for the Forest and a connection with nature

In developing the plan, York Region drew from a wide range of expertise and technical advice, and engaged the community through several open houses and surveys.

The previous Forest Management Plan from 1998 to 2018 guided the Region through many accomplishments including having the first public forest in Canada to achieve Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification in 2000. The Regional Forest now includes 23 tracts of about 2,400 hectares. It is recognized for excellence in forest management, invasive species management, accessible trails and public programs.