General News

Simcoe County recognizes National Forest Week with tours of local forests

September 11, 2025   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

Simcoe County is joining communities across Canada in recognizing National Forest Week.

National Forest Week takes place from Sept. 21 to 27.

The week celebrates the vital role forests play in the environment, economy, and daily lives.

This year’s theme is “Roots of Resilience: From Seed to Canopy.” It honours the strength and interconnectedness of forest ecosystems and the people who care for them.

Sept. 20 to 26 also marks Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Forest Week. This is an international campaign led by the FSC to raise awareness about responsible forest management and the importance of choosing FSC-certified products.

To mark the occasion, the County of Simcoe is hosting a series of guided forestry tours across various County Forest locations.

Open to all ages, these tours will showcase diverse forest types, including hardwood, coniferous, and wetland ecosystems.

Visitors will learn about sustainable forest management practices aligned with FSC principles and conservation efforts such as reforestation, invasive species control, and habitat restoration. They will also learn about the role of forests in carbon storage, water protection, and community wellbeing.

“With more than 34,000 acres, the Simcoe County Forest is more than just trees; it’s a living system that helps shape our way of life, protect our climate, and preserve our local culture,” said Simcoe County Warden Basil Clarke. “By celebrating our forests, we’re acknowledging how important it is to care for them and make smart choices that protect these natural treasures for the generations to come.”

Details about tour schedules and location maps are available on the County’s website at www.simcoe.ca/forestryguidedtours.

Local tours include:

• Wednesday, Sept. 17, at the Baxter Tract (6807 County Road 56, Essa) at 5 p.m.

• Sunday, Sept. 21, at the Baxter Tract (6807 County Road 56, Essa) at 12 p.m.

• Sunday, Sept. 21, at the Tottenham Tract (6631 2nd Line, Tottenham) at 12 p.m.

• Wednesday, Sept. 24, at the Tottenham Tract (6631 2nd Line, Tottenham) at 5 p.m.

Readers Comments (0)