A total of 6.5 acres of marginal farmland was reforested along the lakeshore, which adds to the natural corridor from Lake Erie inland through Spooky Hollow and into the forests of Turkey Point. The second planting was 3.5 acres of former farmland within the South Walsingham Sand Ridges Forest Complex, reducing forest edge and increasing interior forest.
The plantings consist of native species of local origin and included 26 different species of trees and shrubs. Over 8000 seedlings were planted by the landowners and volunteers, and through Long Point Region Conservation Authority's (LPRCA's) Private Land Tree Plant Program. LPRCA also assisted with technical advice and weed control where needed.
The benefits of reforesting idle or retired farmland are numerous. Young trees store carbon as they grow which helps to reduce levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, a major greenhouse gas. Also, forests provide critical habitat for wildlife, moderation of local climate, protection of adjacent farmland, revenue from lumber, and various recreation opportunities.
LPWBRF is very pleased to be participating in this national restoration initiative. Ecological restoration projects are being implemented in all six of Canada's Biosphere Reserves, co-ordinated through the Canadian Biosphere Reserve Association (CBRA). LPWBRF focused restoration work on addressing forest fragmentation. However, other Biosphere Reserves had different priorities. Projects have included exotic species removal, stream restoration and erosion control, and educational tools to protect sensitive areas from excessive disturbance. All projects were made possible through the generous support of the Friends of the Environment Foundation.