Non-profit group looks to reforest Presqu’ile Provincial Park as high winds has caused significant damage
A volunteer digs up a tree in Prequ'ile Provincial Park. Photo courtesy of Friends of Prequ'ile Park Facebook.
By: Dan Jones, Northumberland 89.7 FM News, Local Journalism Initiative.
A conservation group is seeking to help reforest Presqu’ile Provincial Park. The Friends of Presqu’ile Park state that reforestation is urgent and needed as high winds have caused significant damage and downed trees.
Dan Riggs, Director of Grants for the non-profit group approached Brighton Municipal Council Monday, wanting support, not financial contributions as its attempts to secure $50,000 for the project. He explained that Emerald Ash Borer has decimated the ash tree population, as approximately 30 percent of ash tree make up the park.
“There are a lot of forest areas that have no forest canopy, and apparently there are a lot of dead trees. In fact, there are thousands of dead, dying and downed trees in Presqu’ile. So reforestation is vital for maintaining ecological integrity and species conservation,” said Riggs.
Riggs said reforestation contributes to climate change mitigation, as tree canopies provide a cooling effect in the area, provide refuge for migrating species and enhance the overall aesthetics of the park and user experience.
The organization is meeting with a forester with Trees Canada this week to survey the forest and assess the current Park situation and to develop a planting plan. While the three-year project, slated to begin in May 2026, Friends of Presqu’ile Park would need a motion of support from the municipality to strengthen its proposal through the Green Municipal Fund Tree Planting Grant.
Brighton Mayor Brian Ostrander said supports the reforestation efforts.
“I think this is a great opportunity to partner with another organization in an area we know has been devastated from a forestry perspective,” Ostrander explained.
Council passed the motion. The funding application for the project is due by September 18.
