City to Conduct Traditional Burns in High Park and South Humber Park This Month to Protect Rare Ecosystems
TORONTO – The City of Toronto will soon carry out traditional and prescribed burns in High Park and South Humber Park, aiming to restore and protect rare black oak savannah and woodland habitats. The initiative, known as Biinaakzigewok Anishnaabeg, integrates Indigenous land stewardship and will be conducted later this month, with the exact date determined based on weather conditions.
Prescribed burns are low-intensity, controlled fires that consume dried vegetation, helping to maintain ecosystems that depend on natural fire cycles. Toronto has used this method for over 20 years, specifically to rejuvenate its rare black oak savannah landscapes.
The upcoming burns will begin mid-morning in High Park, followed by an afternoon session in South Humber Park. High Park will be closed to vehicles on burn day, with restricted access near burn zones in both parks. Trail closures are also expected.
Residents will be notified 24 to 48 hours before the burns through posted notices at park entrances and surrounding communities. The City advises residents, particularly those with asthma or sensitivity to poison ivy, to stay indoors or consider temporarily leaving the area due to potential smoke exposure.
This year’s operation continues to honour Indigenous traditions. In collaboration with the Indigenous Land Stewardship Circle and Elder Henry Pitawanakwat, the burn carries the Anishinaabemowin name Biinaakzigewok Anishnaabeg, meaning “the responsibility for a cleansing fire by all Native Peoples.”
The City encourages residents to follow safety signage and respect temporary park closures. More information is available at: City of Toronto Prescribed Burn Information
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