(North Bay, December 8, 2021) The North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority (NBMCA) is reminding people this holiday season 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.   We’ve seen this happen in years past, but there are laws protecting them from removal. They must be left in their place undisturbed,” said Troy Storms, Manager of Lands and Stewardship.

Friends of Laurier Woods, which co-owns the popular Laurier Woods Conservation Area with NBMCA, 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,” added Fred Pinto, President of Friends of Laurier Woods

The removal of trees and vegetation from a Conservation Area carries with it a fine of $125 under the Conservation Authorities Act Reg 125.

The North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority (NBMCA) was founded in 1972 by the Province of Ontario and the NBMCA’s 10 member municipalities. A non-profit organization, the NBMCA works closely with the public to balance human needs with the environmental needs of the region’s watershed. The NBMCA is one of 36 Conservation Authorities who are members of Conservation Ontario.

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For more information, contact: 

Troy Storms, Manager Lands and Stewardship                              (705) 494-5113
Paula Loranger, Community Relations Coordinator                         (705) 494-5115