SDG COUNTIES, Ontario – SDG Counties has received a sizeable donation of forested land in South Glengarry.
SDG Counties and landowner Francis Chretien have completed a donation that will see the municipality receive 27 acres of beautiful property that includes Sugar Maple with a component of Hemlock, White Pine, Red Oak, and Basswood.
The acquisition is part of SDG Counties’ land donation program, that sees local property owners donate forested land to the municipality, which takes over stewardship and protection of the land. SDG Counties owns and manages approximately 9,600 acres of forested land.
“Francis is a longtime member of the SDG Chapter of the Ontario Woodlot Association,” said Philip Duncan, SDG Counties’ forestry coordinator. “The care he has put into the woodlot is evident and we will ensure its protection and conservation. The property has 17 acres of forest, and 10 acres of agricultural land. SDG Counties will be planting the site next year with close to 8,400 seedlings to enhance the forest cover.”
The history of the property goes back decades. First acquired by Thomas and Cordelia Chretien in 1911, the woodlot was used by the family for maple syrup production, firewood, and timber. There is a sugar shack on property that was used for maple syrup production until the early 1980’s.
Francis Chretien is a graduate of Kemptville college agriculture program, and has a strong affinity for farming and woodlot management. Although farming was his primary job, Francis is a very accomplished metal fabricator and wood worker.
Mr. Chretien said making the donation to SDG Counties is important to the long-term legacy of the property.
“Our family is thrilled to know that the property will be protected forever,” he added. “It’s important for us to know that the land will be enjoyed by generations to come.”
SDG Counties engages in sustainable forest practices to conserve and enhance our community forest. SDG Counties is happy to work with landowners to ensure the preservation of woodlots through the land donation program.
SDG Counties issues charitable receipts for donations of land, and strive to provide the best option for forest conservation.
If you are interested in preserving your natural legacy, please contact Philip Duncan, forestry coordinator at pduncan@sdgcounties.ca.