Forestry

In 1851, there was 80% woodland cover in Elgin, Kent and Middlesex Counties. By 1951, this had dropped to less than 10%, contributing to a large amount of soil erosion. The clearing of forests due to urbanization and agricultural land uses has contributed to soil erosion. Essential topsoil and nutrients blow away and enter waterways causing pollution and degradation of fish habitats. The loss of forests has tremendous financial and social costs for all residents of the LTVCA’s watershed.

The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority has encouraged the planting of trees for windbreaks, small woodlots and wildlife shelter. Trees reduce soil erosion and heating costs, increase crop yields, enrich topsoil, absorb noise pollution and carbon dioxide, provide wildlife shelter, beautify and cool environment, provide wood and paper products, enhance recreation areas and produce oxygen! Since 1985, over 1.5 million trees have been planted in the watershed and region with the help of the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (see forest cover map, drainage map and physiography map). This planting and spraying service is offered to landowners of 5 acres or more in the watershed.

Habitat Restoration Grants Available to Landowner’s

Interested in planting trees on your property?  See below for available Habitat Restoration Grants and then visit our Spring Tree Planting page.

The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Foundation also offers a Memorial Forest Program across the Lower Thames watershed.

Click here for Conservation Services Fees

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