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Ecological Forestry Initiative

Graywood Woodlot


The County of Annapolis owns and actively manages the Graywood woodlot (PID 05091152) and neighboring properties (PIDs 05091178, 05091335) to promote sustainable forest health. This initiative, approved by Council in May 2024 via Motion 240521.14, builds on the 2013 Forest Management Plan and prior thinning operations completed in late 2023 to early 2024.

Location and Ownership

Graywood is a County-owned forest site in Annapolis County, Nova Scotia. It supports local biodiversity, watershed protection, and responsible timber revenue.

What is Ecological Forestry?

Ecological forestry prioritizes forest health, biodiversity, and resilience by mimicking natural processes rather than maximizing timber volume. It involves selective harvesting, removing about 30% of basal area in targeted areas, to improve tree spacing, species diversity, and habitat for wildlife, including features like vernal pools.

Our Practices at Graywood

Western Woodlot Services Cooperative (WWSC), a not-for-profit owned by western Nova Scotia woodlot owners, leads our efforts. They reviewed the 2013 plan, conducted site visits in December 2024 and May 2025, and proposed harvesting 36 hectares (89 acres) in 2025 using partial cuts focused on red spruce and white pine.

Benefits and Next Steps

These practices enhance long-term forest resilience, protect soil and water, boost biodiversity, and generate revenue without upfront municipal spending.

Following Council approval on July 8, 2025:

WWSC will carry out activities on Graywood properties (PIDs 05091152, 05091178, 05091335), including partial harvests in Stands 4, 5, and 10, to help nature. This will include cutting some trees in parts of the forest, taking care of sensitive areas such as wetlands, soils, habitats, and watercourses, making it easier to get around and access improvements (brushing, turnarounds, culverts), biodiversity monitoring, and following the 2013 Plan.