What’s Up with Logging in Catchacoma Forest?

logging in forest

Ancient Forest Exploration & Research (AFER) is asking that question. AFER ecologists, local residents and environmental organizations are concerned about the effects of recent and planned logging on the ecological, carbon storing, educational, scientific and recreational values of Catchacoma Forest. 

AFER worked with local Peterborough students to survey sections of the forest. They measured significant stands of old-growth hemlocks including a 375 year-old tree, and found this landscape to be the largest known mature hemlock stand in Canada. Researchers also found documentation for at-risk species in the forest, including cerulean warbler, hognose snake and Blanding’s turtles. 

The CFSC believes this nationally significant forest qualifies for conservation status with the Ministry of Environment Conservation and Parks (MECP), which would ban commercial logging. While the provincial process for getting protection is complicated and long, the first step is stop the logging planned for next year. CFSC has been advocating with the logging company and the MNRF to stop logging in Catchacoma Forest while its conservation status is evaluated. 

To find out more, read this pamphlet (pdf).

To support protection for the Catchacoma old-growth forest, sign the petition at: www.wildernesscommittee.org/take-action/support-protection-catchacoma-old-growth-forest

Related: Peterborough guest column by Peter Currier: Catchacoma Forest logger deserves conservationists’ respect