The Township of Uxbridge has officially announced the creation of the Steve Snoddon Mini Forest, a new environmental project located at 57 Elgin Park Drive. This initiative serves as a living tribute to the late Steve Snoddon, a dedicated community volunteer whose tireless work on township committees and local organizations left an indelible mark on the region. Known for his leadership as a past president of the Rotary Club of Uxbridge and his advocacy for sustainable trails, the Steve Snoddon Mini Forest will honor his legacy by enhancing the local ecosystem and providing a new green space for future generations to enjoy.
The development of the Steve Snoddon Mini Forest will follow a proven two-phase approach previously used by the township: site preparation and planting. Phase one, the site preparation, is scheduled for June 13, 2026. During this stage, volunteers and municipal staff will work together to prepare the soil and clear the area for future growth. The second phase, which involves the actual tree planting, is slated for the fall of 2026. This method ensures that the young saplings have the best possible environment to thrive, eventually creating a dense, high-biodiversity pocket of nature within the urban fabric of Uxbridge.
To bring the Steve Snoddon Mini Forest to life, the township is actively seeking community volunteers to assist with the initial site preparation. Participants are encouraged to register through the township’s online portal and are asked to come prepared with protective work gloves and boots. Because the project relies on community effort, the township has requested that volunteers bring their own shovels and wheelbarrows if available. This collaborative spirit perfectly mirrors the volunteerism that Snoddon himself championed throughout his life, particularly during his time with the Durham Mountain Bike Association and the Uxbridge Trails Committee.
The project is a true community collaboration, receiving support from a wide array of partners including Trees for Life, Uxbridge Tree Services, and the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority. Local groups like the Rotary Club of Uxbridge, the Uxbridge Hospital Auxiliary, and Run for the Diamond have also pledged their support, alongside funding and resources from the Durham Region. This broad coalition highlights the deep respect the community held for Snoddon, who was the driving force behind iconic local landmarks like the Uxbridge Rotary Skate Park and the Optimist Pump Track.
As the Steve Snoddon Mini Forest begins its growth journey, it will serve as a permanent reminder of the importance of sustainable development and community service. The township’s focus on creating “mini forests” is part of a larger strategy to combat urban heat and improve local air quality. For those who knew Steve as a friend, a leader, or an advocate for sustainable trails, this forest provides a fitting sanctuary that reflects his passion for the outdoors. Interested residents who wish to contribute to this green legacy can find more information or register for the June event by contacting the Uxbridge Trails Committee directly.
