The removal of limbs and branches from trees in Laurier Woods has prompted a holiday reminder from the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority (NBMCA).
Residents are being advised that it is illegal to remove trees, limbs, berries and other vegetation from Conservation Areas.
“We know that it’s tempting to harvest a tree for Christmas or cut some limbs and berries for a wreath, but a Conservation Area is not the place to do that,” says Troy Storms, Manager of Lands and Stewardship. “We’ve seen this happen in years past, but there are laws protecting them from removal. They must be left in their place undisturbed.”
The Friends of Laurier Woods has noted the removal of some limbs and branches from trees in the 250-acre conservation area off Brule St.
“These trees and plants are there for all to enjoy, preserve and protect. They provide habitat and food for birds, deer, and other animals who live in Laurier Woods. They form the urban tree canopy that helps mitigate the impacts of climate change,” says Fred Pinto, President of Friends of Laurier Woods.
Removing trees and vegetation from a Conservation Area carries a fine of $125 under the Conservation Authorities Act Reg 125.
One place you can get a real tree is certain Crown land.
Meghan Forbes, spokesperson with the Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry, says there are a few basic rules though.
“We allow the cutting of a single Christmas tree per household per year for personal use from Crown land north of the French and Mattawa Rivers,” she says.
That tree cannot be sold.
Forbes also cautions that not all Crown lands are managed by the natural resources ministry.
“For example, on some highway corridors, they might be managed by the Ministry of Transportation. So we encourage residents to obtain prior permission to cut a tree from the appropriate ministry or agency,” she says.
Cutting isn’t allowed in provincial parks, on conservation reserves or other protected areas.
**With files from Bob McIntyre
