Forests & Trails
The County of Grey owns 8,340 acres of forest. Prior to 1996, the forests were managed by the Ministry of Natural Resources through an agreement with the County. In May of 1996 the Forest Management Program at the Ministry was eliminated and management responsibilities for the forests were transferred back to the County at that time.
Forest Management is an elaborate combination of Natural Art and Science which balances several intricate and often conflicting environmental factors with personal perspectives. These factors are wildlife habitat, recreation, aesthetics, environmental protection, economics and sustainable timber supply. It is the ability to apply a proper combination of these various environmental factors to a forest landscape that changes over every hill.
The County's goal is to actively manage the County's forests using good forest management techniques while providing a multitude of recreational opportunities.
Forest Management By-Law (PDF 41.47KB)
Schedule A (PDF 5.48KB)
Schedule B (PDF 12.07KB)
Schedule C (PDF 22.99KB)
Schedule D (PDF 15.03KB)
Schedule E (PDF 18.55KB)
Schedule F (PDF 7.62KB)
Recreational Trails Strategy (PDF 844.16KB)
Trails in Grey County Forests
Various forest properties are used for recreational activities such as, mountain biking, hiking, walking, birding, cross country skiing and snowmobiling. The trails amongst County Forests are enjoyed by both visitors and local residents.
Please complete, print and sign the Memorandum of Understanding Third Party use of County Property form and mail to the Planning and Development Department at 595 9th Avenue East, Owen Sound Ontario N4K 3E3.
Memorandum of Understanding Form
Select an activity from the list below:
Additional Resources
- The Ontario Woodlot Association
- Grey County Forest Stewardship Network
- Grey County Woodlot Association
- Ministry of Natural Resources - Forests in Ontario
- Grey Bruce Forestry Service
- Bruce Grey Trails Network
- Landowner Stewardship Services
- 2013 Grey Bruce Woodlot Flyer
