Reforestation

For more than forty years, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) has played a major role in forest management, tree and shrub planting, and reforestation throughout our jurisdiction.

Increased urbanization and land management practices have led to the loss of a large percentage of quality forest and woodland habitats in the Greater Toronto Area.

Remaining woodland has been severely encroached upon or become fragmented. The loss of this valuable habitat has led to the reduction of native plant and wildlife species in the GTA.

Each year an average of 165,000 trees and shrubs are planted in our jurisdiction by our staff and our partners in conservation, and by landowners who participate in our Private Land Tree Planting Program. This provides a variety of environmental benefits, which include protecting water quality and quantity, reducing soil erosion, and cleaning our air.

Many bird and animal species require large areas of forest for foraging and to survive from predation. Fragmented and small pockets of woodland do not meet the territorial requirements of sensitive species such as wood thrush and scarlet tanagers. The TRCA uses the Terrestrial Natural Heritage Strategy to identify suitable reforestation sites for maximizing interior forest habitat.

The TRCA has focused many of it reforestation efforts in the stream valley for twenty years and is now undertaking the development of the Riparian Reforestation Strategy which will identify and prioritize planting locations along our watercourses which will make the most considerable contribution to improving the water quality and health of habitats located in our jurisdiction.

The TRCA has worked with hundreds of school groups and local communities to create a legacy of healthy forests. Planting events provide hands on learning experiences, promote local stewardship and educate participants about various conservation issues.

See the TRCA’s Calendar of Events for info on how to get involved.