Complaints about clear-cutting in East Kent have caught the attention of municipal officials.
Bylaw enforcement officials are investigating reports that woodlots are being cleared in violation of Chatham-Kent’s temporary bylaw prohibiting clearcutting of woodlots and woodlands.
The CK Woodlot Preservation group reported suspected clear-cutting on Botany Line near Thamesville.
“These latest allegations of clear-cutting at the end of last week have been reported to the Municipality and By-law Enforcement staff are investigating these matters further,” Paul Lacina, Chatham-Kent’s Director of Building Developing Services says. “As these are active investigations, further public comments cannot be made at this time.”
Bylaw enforcement officers have looked into several other complaints, but say none resulted in any charges to date.
The clear-cutting ban was first put in place on April 26th, and most recently extended to April 30th, 2022.
To report an incident or for any further inquiries on the Temporary Clear-Cutting By-law please contact Building Development Services at 519-360-1998 or email shellyb@chatham-kent.ca
Anyone who is intending to undertake some selective harvesting is also encouraged to contact the Municipality before beginning the work.