Our Forests
Overview
The forests within Harvey Lakeland Estates are a mixed type called the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Forest. They contain a mixture of trees found either much farther north or much farther south.
Spruce and Birch mingle with White Oak and Red Cedar. Many trees such as the latter two cannot be found more than a few kilometers north of here. They are essentially enjoying a local climate moderated by the Kawartha Lakes.
Stewardship
Stewardship is the recognition of our collective responsibility to retain the quality of our Commonland forests, trails and waterfronts; and to manage these natural resources in a way that conserves their environmental, recreational and economic value.
Stewardship is also a journey – the commitment that comes with being good stewards takes time and effort. There is a role for everyone in stewardship:
- the Boad of Directors are elected to provide leadership in the development of policies that support stewardship of the Commonland;
- volunteer teams help with the implementation of the policies and the ongoing maintenance of the Commonland; and
- all Members provided input and feedback and ensure their use of the Commonland aligns with the Association’s stewardship goals and policies.
A Forests Stewardship Team comprised of volunteers helps with the ongoing maintenance of the forests and the implementation of the Association’s forests stewardship policies and projects.
Stewardship activities include removal of downed trees that are obstructing use of the trails, felling and /or removal of trees in accordance with the Forest Management Plan and monitoring adherence to the Forests Management Policy.
Do you have an interest and time or skills to help? Contact the Director – Forests.
Information - Reports - Forms
Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program
The Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program (MFTIP) encourages good forest management by giving a property tax reduction to eligible landowners who prepare and follow an approved Managed Forest Plan.
Wooded land is classified as managed forest and taxed at 25% of the municipal residential property tax rate when it is enrolled in the MFTIP program.
To enrol in the program a landowner must file a Managed Forest Plan that describes how they will manage their forests responsibly over a 10-year period. A progress report must be filed in the fifth year of the plan.
HLCOA has been enrolled in the program since 1998.
HLCOA Managed Forest Plan (latest)
Maps
MFTIP Eligible Compartments