Last week, we all experienced the smell of burning forests, along with the eery smokey haze from the wildfires in northern Ontario. Although we were fortunate not to be in the midst of this sorrowful disaster, its existence could not be ignored, nor could the knowledge of the immeasurable death and suffering from which the smoke arose. In addition to the obvious destruction, forest fires also release substantial levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. In 2023, it was estimated that Canadian wild fires released approximately three billion tonnes of CO2, which is roughly the equivalent of fossil fuel emissions from large industrial countries.
The presence of trees and forests is critical to the survival of land-based lifeforms; including humans. Trees and other forms of flora need carbon dioxide (CO2) for photosynthesis and in turn, they release oxygen for us to breathe. In addition to sequestering and storing CO2, trees also help to improve air quality by capturing various pollutants from the air. Forests provide food and medicine and coniferous trees release their volatile oils (aka essential oils); thereby offering us healing. This is one reason why walking through a pine forest is so therapeutic. We literally breathe in the pine essential oils.
The vast root systems of trees also help to hold the ground in place and absorb water during flash floods; thereby reducing soil erosion and property damage. We need trees. We need forests.
Although the Carolinian Zone makes up only 1% of Canada’s land mass, it is also the most bio-diverse region in all of Canada and is home to approx. 40% of Canada’s species at risk. Ontario’s Carolinian Zone was once approx. 80% lush forest, but today, less than 10% remains. When early settlers arrived, vast portions of Carolinian forest were converted into agriculture. Today, the biggest threats are urbanization and industrialization. Natural spaces are being developed at alarming rates.
The Carolinian forest behind Jennings Rd, which also sides onto Robinson Rd. is currently under threat of annexation by the City of Brantford. Where many of us see a beautiful and unique forest cover, surrounded by farms on peaceful country roads, the city sees a future aviation business park. To envision industrial development in place of this forest is a shuddering thought. The many life forms who call this place home would be forever gone. No longer would we be graced by the symphony of birds, nor the magical sight of deer against a winter backdrop. Its absence could also increase air pollution and the risk of flooding to homes on Jennings Rd.
It is imperative that this surviving remnant of Carolinian forest remain as part of Brant County; to be protected not just for today, but in perpetuity. It is time to increase protection of trees and forests, not destroy them. Many lives depend upon them; including ours and those of future generations. Let us adopt the ancient Indigenous belief that decisions be made with the next seven generations in mind. If human destruction of our Earth Mother continues at the current rate, there may soon be little to nothing left for future generations.
Sincerely,
Stephanie
