York Region taking greener approach to winter road safety

York Region is taking a greener approach to winter road safety with the launch of a Living Snow Fence pilot project in partnership with Rouge National Urban Park, Parks Canada.

York Region is taking a greener approach to winter road safety with a new pilot project that uses trees and shrubs to manage blowing snow.

The Region teamed up with Parks Canada Rouge Urban Park to launch a Living Snow Fence pilot, designed to control drifting snow, cut down on whiteouts, and improve visibility for motorists.

Officials say the idea is simple but effective: instead of using traditional slatted barriers, rows of greenery are planted to act as natural windbreaks trapping snow before it piles up on the road.

According to York Region, living snow fences can capture up to 12 times more snow than conventional fences. They also come with long-term environment benefits, helping to conserve energy for nearby farms and buildings, providing wildlife habitat, attracting pollinators, and lasting decades longer than typical snow fencing.

The Region says the first installations were planted in March 2023 and is now fully operational. It’s located at 1700 Major Mackenzie Drive in Richmond Hill.

As part of the pilot project, five fields along the York-Durham Line - from Elgin Mills Road South to 14th Avenue - have been identified for future planting.

Officials say the living snow fences project will be monitored for effectiveness and if results are positive, it could expand the approach to other high-priority areas.