Parks Canada will be removing hazardous trees and burning small brush piles in the Niagara-on-the-Lake Commons over the coming weeks as part of regular fall maintenance.

The work is “to protect, restore, and improve the ecological health of Niagara National Historic Sites,” said the agency in a media release.

“A recent inspection around the Commons has identified some hazardous trees, many of which are ash trees that have succumbed to Emerald Ash Borer. The weakened branches and trunks of these trees pose a risk to public safety and will therefore be removed.”

Work to remove the hazardous trees will begin in December. The Commons and grounds of Butler’s Barracks will remain open to visitors during these operations, however, work areas will be cordoned off and temporarily closed to the public.

Parks Canada said “every tree removed will be replaced by a native tree species” as part of the agency's revegetation plan, and that “plantings will be designed to integrate the natural environment and cultural features of the site.”

The brush burning began Nov. 18 and will continue into the fall.

“Parks Canada will be burning small piles of brush and deadfall that have been collected around Niagara National Historic Sites. This is a regular operational practice used to address deadfall and brush on the extensive property.”

To mitigate the amount of smoke being produced, the agency said it will burn small amounts of brush and only conduct burns on days when the wind is suitable, “to minimize the disturbance to our visitors and neighbours.”

“The safety of the public, fire personnel and staff, site infrastructure and neighbouring lands is always our number one priority.”

All Parks Canada’s projects are subject to environmental assessments to ensure appropriate ecological protection measures are in place, the agency said.

“It has been confirmed that no species at risk trees are present in work areas. Parks Canada staff will be diligent in monitoring for wildlife prior to and during these operations. Furthermore, all tree removal work will occur outside of the bird nesting season to protect migratory birds and wildlife.”

Visitors are asked to respect all on-site signage, keep a safe distance from maintenance crews and onsite equipment, and be aware of some minor disturbances, including noise and temporary closures of certain areas.