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

Cobourg, ON – April 22, 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 27^th)
• The burn is planned within Northumberland County Forest (near Beagle Club Trailhead) in the Township of Hamilton

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