TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--We are proud to announce the launch of a major reforestation project to plant 3 million trees in the Ogoki Forest, a region 400 km northeast of Thunder Bay, Ontario devastated by catastrophic wildfires of 2023. This initiative marks a pivotal step in restoring a landscape critical to both ecological health and the cultural heritage of local First Nations communities.
In 2023, two massive wildfires ravaged 40,188 hectares of the Ogoki Forest, leaving behind widespread ecological damage. The Ogoki Wildfire Reforestation Project aims to heal these scars by focusing reforestation efforts on the most severely affected areas. Not only will this land restoration project rebuild the forest, enhance biodiversity, stabilize soils and sequester carbon, but it is also taking place in partnership with Indigenous-led Agoke Development LP, an organization led by shareholders Aroland First Nation, Eabametoong First Nation, and Marten Falls First Nation.
"The Ogoki Wildfire Reforestation Project is a vital step in the restoration of the Ogoki Forest. ADLP is honored to be a key partner in this endeavor, working alongside Integrity Reforestation and their partners to replant 3 million trees and revive habitats that are crucial to our environment and way of life," said Lawrence Baxter, President of ADLP.
A cornerstone of this initiative is the restoration of critical caribou habitat. The Ogoki Forest is home to two vital caribou ranges, the Nipigon and the Ozhiski, that were heavily impacted by the wildfires. By planting native tree species and fostering a strong ecological balance, Integrity Reforestation seeks to rebuild the habitat necessary for the survival and recovery of these important and vulnerable species.
“We are honored to work alongside ADLP and the communities of Aroland, Eabametoong, and Marten Falls First Nations to bring this ambitious project to life,” said Matt McKernan, Founder of Integrity Reforestation. “Restoring the Ogoki Forest is not just about planting trees—it’s about healing a landscape that is vital to biodiversity, climate resilience, and the cultural heritage of the people who call this region home.”
This project is driven by the support of Forests Canada, Tree Canada, and the Arbor Day Foundation, Chilly Moose Ltd., and Orca Intelligence Inc. Their vital funding not only makes this large-scale restoration effort possible but underscores the transformative power of strategic partnerships in tackling the urgent challenge of reforesting wildfire-devastated landscapes and restoring ecological balance.
The backing from Forests Canada, Tree Canada, the Arbor Day Foundation, Chilly Moose and Orca Intelligence, reflects a profound commitment to environmental restoration and climate action. These organizations play a pivotal role in advancing Canada’s reforestation goals, ensuring that critical ecosystems like those found in the Ogoki Forest are not only restored but strengthened for the future. Their support extends beyond funding—it represents a unified vision for mitigating climatic disruptions, preserving biodiversity, and fostering sustained reforestation development in partnership with local communities and Indigenous leadership. Together, these contributions pave the way for impactful, long-lasting, positive change in regions hardest hit by environmental crises.
For more information about the Ogoki wildfire reforestation project or to learn how you can contribute to the effort, please visit www.integrity-reforestation.com/wildfire
About Our Funding Partners
Forests Canada is a national charity committed to conserving, restoring and growing Canada’s forests to sustain life and communities. From the annual collection of viable tree seeds ensuring a reliable future supply, to supporting local jobs and inspiring the next generation of forest stewards, non-profit Forests Canada works with a trusted network of partners to ensure the long-term health and resiliency of our forests today, and for future generations. Learn more at www.ForestsCanada.ca.
Tree Canada is a non-profit charitable organization that promotes the planting and nurturing of trees in Canada's urban and rural areas. It provides tree-related education, technical assistance and resources to communities, corporations, individuals and non-profit organizations. Learn more at www.treecanada.ca
Arbor Day Foundation is a global non-profit inspiring people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees. Along with their network, Arbor Day has planted more than half a billion trees — with a focus on areas where they can have the greatest impact on climate, communities, and biodiversity. Learn more at www.arborday.org
Orca Intelligence Inc. delivers cutting-edge integrated supply chain technology that helps create efficiencies to save clients money, and is dedicated to strong values of corporate environmental sustainability through supporting tree planting. Learn more at www.orcaaudit.com
Chilly Moose is a family-owned national leader of high performance outdoor coolers, insulated drinkware and outdoor gear, designed by Canadians for life in the great Canadian outdoors. Committed to making a positive impact on our planet, Chilly Moose actively supports tree planting by contributing a portion of their revenue toward the rehabilitation of wildfire affected areas. Learn more at www.chillymoose.ca
