This section is Presented This section was produced by the editorial department. The client was not given the opportunity to put restrictions on the content or review it prior to publication. by HAVEN HOME HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING Local environmentalists are arguing that the impact on wildlife should have been evaluated before any cutting started. Mar 19, 2026 • Last updated 3 days ago • 6 minute read
Over 40 protesters gathered to oppose clearcutting happening at Mile Square near Taylor-Kidd Boulevard and Coronation Boulevard in Kingston on March 18, 2026. Photo by Bill Hall /The Whig-Standard
A group of more than 40 activists are standing against clearcutting that is occurring in Kingston’s west end.
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Around a hundred acres of abandoned farmland at Taylor-Kidd Boulevard and Coronation Boulevard-known locally as Mile Square block-have been clearcut recently.
According to Sarah Knight of Friends of Collins Creek, a new advocacy group, property owner Bernie Robinson-a businessman and farmer-claims he’s using the land for farming purposes.
Even though Robinson’s farm is situated along Highway 2, he also owns some land in Amherstview’s west end-much of which hasn’t been used for years.
The locals believe that an evaluation of how valuable this area is for wildlife should have happened before any clearing started.
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“They’re still cutting, and right now I’m not sure exactly when they’re going to stop, and no one seems able to answer that question,” Knight said during Wednesday’s protest.
Sarah Knight leads protesters calling on Kingston City officials to intervene against ongoing clearcutting at Mile Square block near Taylor-Kidd Boulevard and Coronation Boulevard on March 18, 2026. Photo by Bill Hall /The Whig-Standard
Knight mentioned that Robinson has avoided obtaining necessary permits or environmental assessments due to a specific bylaw exemption.
“The agricultural exemption allows landowners who use their property primarily for farming not to seek permission,” she explained.
The City of Kingston’s Tree Bylaw #2018-15 does regulate tree removal but offers exemptions for standard agricultural practices.
Clearing trees for farming operations-as defined under Ontario’s Farming and Food Production Protection Act-is allowed particularly within designated agricultural zones where this land is located.
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In an interview with The Kingstonist Robinson maintained he follows all rules regarding bylaws. “As a farming operation we’ve been using this land traditionally for over sixty years applying best practices while feeding our animals with crops grown here,” he said.This area had also served as an unofficial park space enjoyed by dog walkers and hikers until early last year when private property signs were put up limiting access.<With help from city councillor Lisa Osanic representing Collins-Bayridge District friends have pushed for a stop-work order<We’ve even submitted a motion asking province officials for a cease-work order long enough so proper assessments can take place,” Knight stated “Despite falling within this loophole there are many protected species here covered under other legislation.”<This has not loaded yet however there still exists continuing coverage beneath here.
