I’m glad to let everyone know that on June 25th between 2 - 4pm Kawartha Conservation will be holding the Grand Opening of Durham East Cross Forest. This property is kitty corner to Long Sault. You could potentially hook up a nice long ride between the two. When it opens there won’t be much in the way of single track, but mountain bikers are the stewardship committee so hopefully we’ll see some developed in due course.

From the Kawartha Conservation site:

Durham East Cross Forest Conservation Area is Kawartha Conservation’s newest natural area, and the first to lie within the Township of Scugog.

The East Cross Forest project was initiated after many properties in the area were devastated by off-road vehicles and other illegal activities. Kawartha Conservation is rehabilitating and managing acquired lands to adequate supplies of clean water for surrounding residents and businesses, and to protect a variety of plant species and cold-water habitat.

Since taking ownership of the first 552 acres in October of 2006, Kawartha Conservation has received donations and purchased additional lands to expand the Durham East Cross Forest Conservation Area.

Our current land holdings are 1134 acres, encompassing the valley and test hill areas, the hydro corridor to the north of test hill, the former Emedi property and Mt. Baldy.

Our goal is to ensure sensitive ecological features are protected and to leave a natural area for generations of visitors to enjoy.

Where to find the DECF:

Durham East Cross Forest

Durham East Cross Forest

I really wish I could make these kinds of announcements more often.