The DeCloet Forest

The DeCloet Forest is a 50-hectare parcel of land comprised of a diverse mix of vegetation cover including sugar maple deciduous forest, sugar maple/hemlock mixed forest, silver maple deciduous swamp, and gray dogwood thickets. The mix of upland, lowland and wetland areas benefits many native wildlife species such as the red fox, American badger, long-eared owl, winter wren and wood thrush.

There are 26 native tree species within the Paul DeCloet Forest, including several species unique to the Carolinian Zone of Canada such as tulip tree, sassafras, black gum, shagbark hickory, and bitternut hickory.

The property forms part of the Clear Creek Valley, providing habitat to several rare animal species. The two main branches of Clear Creek converge within the Paul DeCloet Forest before emptying into Lake Erie approximately seven kilometres south of the property.

The local area is host to an abundance of biodiversity, and the Long Point area serves as an important passage and stopover location for migratory birds and waterfowl.

The family prospered in the tobacco industry and Mr. DeCloet started farming by continuing the family tobacco-growing tradition at a farm one mile west of this forest. He soon diversified into Christmas trees and also purchased several forested properties. This one became his pride and joy.

Through an agreement with the Ministry of Natural Resources, the forest was managed with a focus on removing low-quality and defective trees and creating conditions that allow for a diverse mix of species to establish. As a result, the forest is left with an abundance of healthy, high-quality trees. Mr. DeCloet was intensively involved in all aspects of the management which provided the opportunity to learn about many different aspects of forest management.

As a member of the Ontario Forestry Association, Mr. DeCloet was recognized with the Tree Farmer award. He is a Norfolk Woodlot Owners Association member and a past trustee with Trees Ontario. Mr. DeCloet is also a past appointee of the Long Point Region Conservation Authority and served four years as chairman from 1992-1995. As a Lions Club member, he spearheaded the group assisting with tree planting on Nature Conservancy of Canada properties.

Trees are also a hobby for Mr. DeCloet. He raises tulip trees, which he happily shares with local residents. Over his life, he has been responsible for planting more than 100,000 trees on DeCloet family farms.