Invasive plant herbicide treatment in the York Regional Forest begins every May and is expected to finish in the fall each year. Targeted invasive species include Dog-strangling Vine, Lily-of-the-valley, Periwinkle, European Buckthorn, Manitoba Maple and Phragmites. Signs will be posted at tract entrances closest to where the work is taking place, as well as the actual site where herbicides are being used. Signs are posted a minimum of 24 hours in advance. Signs will remain in place for at least 72 hours after work has occurred.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are invasive species a problem? These invasive species are non-native and can threaten the health, function and diversity of our natural environment. If left unmanaged, many of these invasive species will crowd out native plants and young trees preventing them from growing. What herbicides are being used? While the type of herbicide used depends on the invasive species being treated, some examples include RoundUp, Garlon and Simazine. All herbicides used in the York Regional Forest are approved products for use in Canada and Ontario, and York Region follows best practices and regulations identified under Ontario’s Pesticides Act. Will these herbicides affect native plant, insects and/or wildlife? When applied properly, non-target plants and insects will not be affected. York Region uses the most appropriate product for the task, which may mean using a highly-selective herbicide which will only target a certain group of plants. Spraying directly on the targeted group of plants ensures the non-native invasive plants are treated. Herbicides are applied by applicators licensed under Ontario’s Pesticides Act, 1990. Licensed applicators must follow all label directions and the use of herbicides does not take place if ideal weather and site conditions are not met. What is the difference between a pesticide, herbicide and insecticide? Pesticides are chemicals used to kill things like fungus, bacteria, insects, plant diseases, snails, slugs and weeds. Herbicides are a type of pesticide used to control unwanted plants and trees. Insecticides are a type of pesticide used specifically to target and kill insects. How will the public be notified? As per the Pesticides Act, signs will be posted at main tract entrances closest to where the work is taking place, as well as close to the actual site where herbicides are being used, a minimum of 24 hours in advance. Signs will remain in place for at least 72 hours after work has occurred. Is it safe to visit the Forest while the invasive plants are being treated with herbicide? Most areas being treated are off trail. Forest visitors will see posted signs that detail the date(s) of treatment and the products being used and can decide whether to stay in that area or visit another part of the Forest. Contractors have been instructed to stop work should any visitor come close to the operation. Sites are safe to access once signs have been removed. Is it safe for my dog to be off-leash at Davis Drive or Bendor and Graves Tract while invasive plants are being treated with herbicide? Signs will be posted at tract entrances closest to where the work is taking place, as well as close to the actual site where herbicides are being used, a minimum of 24 hours in advance. Signs will remain in place for at least 72 hours after work has occurred. Temporary fencing will be installed around most areas to help prevent dogs entering the sprayed area. If you go to this area, we ask that you leash your dog and stay on the designated trail as you pass by work areas. Staff will be on site during the spray operation to answer any questions from visitors. Is there anywhere else I can take my dog off-leash? Dogs are permitted off-leash at the following designated off-leash areas:
- Bendor and Graves Tract (entrances at 17858 McCowan Road and 17689 Kennedy Road in the Town of East Gwillimbury)
- Davis Drive Tract (entrances at 4277 Davis Drive and at 17242 McCowan Road in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville)
There is also an enclosed dog off-leash area at the Bendor and Graves Tract at 17858 McCowan Road in the Town of East Gwillimbury. For more information including on-leash tract, off-leash tract and enclosed dog off-leash area rules visit york.ca/DogsInTheForest
Additional designated dog off-leash areas may be open in your community or in a nearby city or town. We encourage you to check your city or town website or contact their parks department for more information.