Gillies Grove Nature Reserve Closed to the Public Until Further Notice

Ontario’s tallest tree is still standing but site is closed to visitors

Due to the destructive derecho (pronounced deh-RAY-cho) storm, the Nature Conservancy of Canada’s (NCC) Gillies Grove Nature Reserve in Arnprior is closed to the public until further notice. 

Located along the Ottawa River, the 22 hectare property contains some of the last remaining old growth forest in eastern Ontario, including the province’s tallest tree – a 47-metre-tall white pine. The tree draws a lot of visitors and photographers throughout the year. Megan Quinn, NCC’s coordinator for conservation biology in eastern Ontario has inspected the property to assess the damage. Quinn confirms that this iconic tree is still intact but notes that there are many others with broken branches yet to come down. These trees will need the attention of an arborist in the coming weeks to ensure the safety of visitors.

“There are four different trail systems on the property, which are popular with nature and outdoor enthusiasts. The cleanup from Saturday's storm is ongoing, and it will take some time to clear debris from trails,” said Quinn, “We appreciate everyone's patience while we work to make our trails safe for visitors.”

People interested in supporting the clean-up efforts can do so by making a donation at www.natureconservancy.ca/on-stewardship and specify that their contribution it is for Gillies Grove.

Since 2001, NCC has led charitable efforts to protect and care for Gillies Grove, ensuring this conservation area is also a community space for people to enjoy. Some trees on the property are more than 65 centimetres in diameter and more than 150 years old. Old-growth forests help with climate change adaptation by providing a refuge for migrating animals and plants as temperatures fluctuate. As well, forests are able to store significant amounts of carbon in the soil and trees.

The area contains some of the province’s tallest white pine trees and supports species like the endangered butternut tree and eastern wood-pewee, a species of special concern.

About

The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is the country’s unifying force for nature. NCC seeks solutions to the twin crises of rapid biodiversity loss and climate change through large-scale, permanent land conservation. As a trusted partner, NCC works with people, communities, businesses and government to protect and care for our country’s most important natural areas. Since 1962, NCC has brought Canadians together to help conserve and restore more than 15 million hectares. To learn more, visit natureconservancy.ca.

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Media contacts:

Tara King

Ontario Communications Manager

Nature Conservancy of Canada

Tara.king@natureconservancy.ca

416.937.5079

Andrew Holland

National Media Relations Director

Nature Conservancy of Canada

Andrew.holland@natureconservancy.ca

1-506-260-0469