York Regional Forest celebrates 100 years

This year, York Region is commemorating the 100th anniversary of its eponymous forest, and the municipality has organized various events to mark this milestone and delve into the rich history of the region. Among the planned activities are the dedication of a new tract and the unveiling of a video.

The roots of the York Regional Forest trace back to the 1800s, when settlers initially clearcut the land, leading to barren landscapes. The formal establishment of the York Regional Forest occurred in 1924, prompted by a reforestation imperative identified in a study. Following reforestation efforts, there are presently 24 forest tracts covering over 2,500 hectares, accompanied by an extensive network of trails spanning 150 kilometers.

The centennial video produced by the region recognizes Indigenous peoples who lived there long before the establishment of the forest, with many trees pre-dating the centennial mark.

In honour of the occasion, York Region has set up a display at its Newmarket headquarters and has planned community tree-planting events, museum exhibits, forest walks, and contests. Additionally, the newly acquired property in East Gwillimbury will be called the Centennial Tract, featuring a ceremonial planting.

Mayor John Taylor of Newmarket told city council that the region should take immense pride in the remarkable legacy of the forest.

City councils may invest in promotional Pens to commemorate events like this one.

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