Creating Fire Resilient Forests

The immediate impacts on the people and communities affected by forest fires are devastating. Supporting relief organizations to address these direct impacts is a critical, immediate response. Investing in natural solutions and building resilient forests helps to mitigate the devastating impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss from forest fires. 

Forest fire season is upon us, significantly impacting our forests, wildlife, and biodiversity.  

In 2023, there were 7,131 forest fires recorded nationally, burning 17,203,625 hectares [1], which is more than three times the size of the province of Nova Scotia. According to the Canadian National Fire Database, in terms of area burned, 2023 was the worst fire season ever recorded [1]. While there's hope 2024 won't be a repeat of last year, experts are preparing for the worst. 

In recent years, increased temperatures and drier conditions caused by climate change have resulted in wildfires that are more frequent, more severe, and more difficult to manage.  

One way to mitigate the effects of climate change and devastating biodiversity loss is to invest in natural solutions, including promoting active stewardship and proper management of forests, planting climate-appropriate species of trees, and educating the public about preventing forest fires [2].

Restoration of landscapes following forest fires is also critical.  

Through our extensive partnerships and network of restoration experts, Forests Ontario and Forest Recovery Canada are working toward enhancing on-the-ground restoration efforts. We work to increase forest cover, restore forests impacted by weather and invasive species, and improve forest conditions in Ontario and across Canada. 

Your support for Forest Ontario’s efforts helps restore our landscapes through the planting and management of native trees that will grow into tomorrow’s healthy, resilient forests.   

How YOU can help: 

• Share our impact stories by following us on social media. 
• Sign up for our TreeLine e-newsletter to stay in the know. 
• Become a member of Forests Ontario to support our forest health efforts. 
• Talk to your colleagues or employees about becoming a Corporate Partner to support healthy, resilient forests. 

To learn more about forest fires and how Forests Ontario is restoring nature landscapes, check out:  

• Forest Fires FAQ 
• "Warnings of a Second Cruel Summer: Conference panel predicts tough fire season in 2024" - Our Forest Magazine, Spring 2024 issue, page 16
• Disaster Mitigation and Insurance: The Role of Forests in Mitigating Extreme Weather Events | Forests Ontario