Forests

Forests, which once dominated the landscape of the Lake Simcoe watershed, have over the last centuries, been fragmented due to increased agriculture and urbanization. Today, these forests are particularly of great value both socially and ecologically. Forests provide opportunity for outdoor recreation activities such as hiking, cross country skiing, bird watching and general nature appreciation. Ecologically, forests are an integral component of the landscape. They have multiple functions including erosion prevention, nutrient cycling and habitat for a variety of flora and fauna.

Forest size is of particular importance for many bird and animal species. Large, unbroken forest expanses are of greater ecological value as they often support forest interior conditions. A decline in forest interior due to fragmentation has led to a decrease in habitat for several migrant neo-tropical bird species, which require these conditions for breeding purposes.

Maps

Forest and Forest Interior
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