Prescribed burn in Northumberland County Forest to support restoration and growth of native habitats

Cobourg, ON – April 23, 2026 – Northumberland County will be conducting prescribed (controlled) burns in the Northumberland County Forest this spring to help enhance and protect rare ecosystems in the forest.

Where and when

· Timing: Late April – early May, depending on weather conditions (as early as April 27th).

· The burn is planned within Northumberland County Forest (near Beagle Club Trailhead) in the Township of Alnwick/Haldimand.

What to expect

· Temporary trail closures may occur at Beagle Club Trailhead during active burns – please check the @Northumberland Forest Facebook page for closure notices before visiting the trailhead.

· Smoke may be visible in the area during operations.

· All burns are carefully monitored and conducted by Lands and Forests Consulting and follow strict safety protocols.

Why this work is important

· Prescribed burns help restore and protect the rare ecosystems in the Forest, such as oak savannah, oak woodland, and tallgrass prairie.

· These controlled ground fires remove invasive plants and excess vegetation, while native species are protected from the fire by their naturally thick bark and deep roots.

· Prescribed burns are a recommended conservation and hazard reduction practice to reduce the risk of wildfire, increase the amount of sunlight reaching the forest floor and encourage the growth of native species.

Questions?

· Contact Northumberland County Natural Heritage team forest@northumberland.ca.

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For more information:
Kate Campbell
Director, Communications
Northumberland County
Phone: 905-372-3329  x2335

Email: campbellk@northumberland.ca

Web: northumberland.ca 

About Northumberland County

Located on the traditional territory of the Mississauga, Northumberland County is a thriving community just one hour east of Toronto along Highway 401, with easy access to urban centres to the north, east and west. As the upper tier level of municipal government for the region, Northumberland County’s vision is to bring together people, partnerships and possibilities for a strong and vibrant Northumberland. Our community includes seven distinct yet complementary municipalities, with County Council comprised of the Mayors of each of these member municipalities:

• Township of Alnwick/Haldimand

• Municipality of Brighton

• Town of Cobourg

• Township of Cramahe

• Township of Hamilton

• Municipality of Port Hope

• Municipality of Trent Hills

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