Discovery of 354-Year-Old Forest in Algonquin Park Faces Logging Threat by 2031

Researchers have identified old-growth forests in Algonquin Park, including a 354-year-old forest near Brain Lake, at risk of logging by 2031. This forest is part of a total of five unprotected old-growth areas found through research conducted from 2022 to 2025.

Another notable find is a 427-year-old forest near Cayuga Lake. Approximately 65% of Algonquin Park is designated for commercial logging, despite its ecological significance, including carbon storage and biodiversity.

The provincial government has acknowledged the importance of old-growth forests in its management plans but has not fully committed to their protection. The Algonquin Forestry Authority states that logging activities occur in designated zones and emphasizes sustainable forest management. Advocates argue for the conservation of these rare ecosystems, highlighting the irreversible loss old-growth forests face if logging continues.