York Region acquires 142 hectares of land in East Gwillimbury to expand York Regional Forest

Yorkregion.com
Oct. 4, 2021

York Regional Forest is about to get a little bigger. York Region announced that it has acquired lands at 20753 McCowan Rd. and 4762 Queensville Sideroad in East Gwillimbury to expand the York Regional Forest. The lands were acquired through the Regional Greening Strategy.

“This land acquisition works to advance our woodland cover while enhancing and preserving our green space and fighting climate change impacts,” York Region Chairman and CEO Wayne Emmerson said. “Residents can look forward to increased access to green space, expanded existing trail systems and connecting to nature.”

The 142-hectare protected countryside property is located within the Natural Heritage system of the Greenbelt Plan and contains a portion of the Oak Ridges Moraine Natural Core area, part of the Regional Greenlands System. Approximately 82 hectares will be reforested, contributing to the region’s 25 per cent woodland cover target.

Acquisition and reforestation of this parcel is partially funded through Infrastructure Canada’s Disaster Mitigation and Adaption Fund and will help reduce the impacts of extreme heat and flooding.

“The purchase of this land will have a priceless impact on protecting significant woodlands and wildlife habitat,” said City of Vaughan Regional Councillor Mario Ferri, Chair of Environmental Services. “Expanding the York Regional Forest helps grow our legacy as a leader in environmental education, stewardship and sustainability.”

COVID-19 has highlighted the important role natural spaces provide in the lives of our residents. With many activities reduced or suspended due to public health measures, residents have sought opportunities to explore natural areas, including the York Regional Forest.

The property should be ready for public use within the next few years. To learn more about the York Regional Forest, visit york.ca/yrf