London’s title as ‘The Forest City’ has just been made official after the Canadian Institute of Forestry declared it the 2026 Forest Capital of Canada.
London was chosen for its leadership in forest conservation, management, and environmental care.
“London’s urban forest is a defining part of our city and a source of pride for our residents,” London Mayor Josh Morgan said in a statement.
“Being named the Forest Capital of Canada is an honour, one that reflects how we live up to our nickname and reflects the hard work, dedication, and passion of our community, city staff, and the many partners who help care for and grow our urban forest.”
A special plaque marking London as the Forest Capital of Canada was revealed at City Hall on Wednesday.
![]()
As the 2026 Forest Capital of Canada, London will host a series of tree-related events throughout the year, including tree giveaways and educational talks. (Dave Chidley/CBC)
The Canadian Institute of Forestry gives out this title each year and requires communities to present a business case demonstrating their ability to celebrate “forest resources” for 12 to 24 months, according to their website.
“It is a very competitive award, so we’re really fortunate to be receiving it,” said Paul Yeoman, the city’s Director of Parks and Forestry. “We’re also really proud that we’re the first large urban area that’s been awarded this recognition, especially in southwestern Ontario.”
Yeoman mentioned that preparing the case for this award had taken a couple of years.
Past winners include Northwest Alberta’s Mackenzie Region, which won in both 2024 and 2025, as well as New Brunswick’s Greater Fredericton Area in 2023.
![]()
London’s tree canopy covers 27 percent of land within its Urban Growth Boundary according to city data. (Travis Dolynny/CBC)
This year as Forest Capital means that extensive tree coverage will be highlighted through various events like tree giveaways and “treevnings” (evening sessions focused on trees), featuring discussions on topics such as why trees matter and how to care for fruit trees at home.
There will also be events during National Forest Week from September 20-26. A complete list of activities can be found on London’s website.
Since this designation is awarded annually, Yeoman noted that London will aim for it again after this year. “We’ll just continue doing great work so we can carry it on next year too.”
Source link
Seven million trees
London boasts around seven million public and private trees, according to Yeoman. The tree canopy covers roughly 27 percent of land within the city’s growth boundary, with plans to increase that figure to 34 percent over the next forty years. “We’re really proud that when you drive into the city, you really do notice the canopy,” Yeoman stated. “Particularly in fall; it’s absolutely beautiful.” The city also oversees 290 woodland areas along with 21 Environmentally Significant Areas he added.Source link
