Can we Ever Be Prepared?

 In the last two weeks, we have mostly survived an ice storm that challenged our power grid, devastated our forest landscapes, and created significant safety concerns and property damage for our residents. For some, this freak of nature was a first-time event, and for long-term residents, it was another in a string of ice storms that seem to happen once every 10 years or so. We certainly weren’t alone as Ontarians north and east of Toronto suffered significant property loss and power failures as well. 

While we all hoped that the power outages would last a day or two, it soon became evident that this was not going to be a quick fix, as approximately 140 hydro poles had to be replaced in the Honeywood area alone. Roads were impassable, trees and hydro lines crossed laneways, sideroads and highways alike. Thanks to the efforts of Ontario Hydro and hydro crews dispatched from across the province, most properties are now reconnected to the grid.

Several days into the cleanup, it became clear that while progress was being made, we could not be sure of the safety of all residents and we needed extra assistance to complete roadwork, tree clearing, conduct wellness checks and provide shelter services. It was at this point that it became necessary to declare a “state of emergency”. This declaration allowed us to access resources from other municipalities, the County, the province, and the Salvation Army. These necessary resources were activated quickly and efficiently. On Monday, April 7, 2025, that state of emergency was lifted.

Can we ever be prepared for a weather event of this scale? As households, we can ensure that we stock up on emergency supplies, consider alternate heat sources and perhaps have a portable generator that can keep essentials running during the recovery period. 

We also need to let ourselves hunker in for the duration. Stay off the roads, when possible, disconnect from the rest of the world, and enjoy the lost art of conversation! 

At Mulmur Township, our roads staff kicked into cleanup mode immediately, around and in support of the Ontario Hydro crews. Our office management team coordinated emergency activities supplying water, food and shelter to those that needed it.  We have a skilled, professional team that worked well together in spite of the exhaustion that they experienced as the week went on.

One of the big concerns occurred when the ice at the Honeywood Arena failed and the Kraft Hockeyville events had to be relocated. The Board of the Centre Dufferin Community Centre extended their invitation to bring the two-day event to Shelburne. We could never have been prepared for the excitement and spirit that the event generated after a long and hard week! While we were not the ultimate winner of the competition, we now have $25,000 in cash and $10,000 in hockey equipment to add to our fundraising efforts to bring new life to the Honeywood Arena. 

Ice storms are nature’s way of pruning. The Declaration of the Emergency showed us where we were doing things right and where we need to improve for the next time an emergency arises. It is my hope that we all have learned from this experience how we can also be personally better prepared for the next emergency.

Thank you for your patience during this time.

Mayor Janet Horner 

Rooted in Excellence: Dean’s Tree Care – Serving Mulmur and Beyond

Zeke Dean knows trees. But more importantly, he understands the vital role trees play in the health, safety, and beauty of your property. Trees are more than just a part of the landscape—they’re living, growing investments that deserve expert care. That’s where Dean’s Tree Care comes in.

Dean’s Tree Care has been proudly serving Mulmur and the surrounding area for the past seven years. After moving to a quiet 10-acre property in our unique community—where the rolling hills and massive trees make you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere, yet right at the heart of everything—Zeke found not only a home, but a calling.

Being an arborist is both scary and rewarding. Working with trees means working at heights, with chainsaws, ropes, and heavy limbs. But at Dean’s Tree Care, safety and precision come first. All pruning is plant-specific, tailored to each tree’s biology and needs. No guesswork, no shortcuts—just solid, professional care.

Services Offered

Whether you're dealing with storm damage or planning for long-term landscape health, Dean’s Tree Care offers a wide range of expert services:

• Tree Pruning
• Shrub Pruning
• Storm Damage Pruning
• Cabling and Bracing
• Plant Healthcare
• Fertilizing
• Tree Removal
• Stump Removal
• Brush Removal

Using both traditional methods and new techniques, the team always strives for perfection—whether it’s preserving a century-old maple or safely removing a hazardous tree leaning over a structure.

Local Roots, Professional Standards

Living in Mulmur, surrounded by towering trees and open sky, reminds Zeke every day why they do this work. The region is home to some truly spectacular specimens—trees that have stood for generations, witnessing seasons, storms, and stories. They feel honored to care for them, and even more honored to work alongside property owners to make their land safer, healthier, and more beautiful.

Youth Dance in Mulmur – May 3! Volunteers Needed

Get ready to move, Mulmur! Party Rockers is bringing a high-energy youth dance to the Honeywood Arena on Friday, May 3. It’s the perfect night for local youth to enjoy music, dancing, and fun in a safe and supervised setting.

To make this event a success, we’re looking for 10–15 chaperones to help out for the evening. If you’re available to volunteer, please contact myhoneywood@mulmur.ca.

All proceeds from the event will support the Honeywood Arena Renovation Fund, helping to revitalize this important community space.

Get your tickets and event details here:

Party Rockers Youth Dance – May 3

Let’s make this a night to remember—for a great cause!

Green Tip of the Month: Compost Your Organic Waste

Composting is a straightforward and impactful way to reduce food waste and support environmental sustainability. By converting organic waste into nutrient-rich soil, you can enhance your garden's health while minimizing landfill contributions.​

Why Compost?

Organic waste in landfills decomposes anaerobically, producing methane—a potent greenhouse gas. Composting mitigates this effect by diverting waste from landfills and transforming it into valuable compost that enriches soil and promotes plant growth.​

Getting Started

Begin by setting up a compost bin in your backyard. Layer "greens" (food scraps and fresh yard waste) with "browns" (dried leaves, cardboard, or newspaper) to maintain a balanced compost pile. Keep the pile moist and aerate it occasionally by turning to facilitate decomposition.​

Local Resources

Residents can obtain Green Bins and small kitchen containers at the Township Office. These tools make it easier to collect and manage organic waste for composting.​

By embracing composting, you contribute to a healthier environment and create a sustainable resource for your garden. Start composting today and make a positive impact!

Adventure All Year with a Mansfield Outdoor Centre Annual Pass!

Enjoy unlimited access to scenic trails and outdoor fun from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026. Whether you hike, bike, ski, or snowshoe, there’s something for every season!

Pass Perks:

• Trails for hiking, biking, trail running & fat biking
• Groomed cross-country ski & snowshoe trails
• Dog-friendly routes
• River access for a refreshing dip
• Soccer field & volleyball courts
• Open daily, year-round
• Day Pass: $17 (ages 7+), kids 6 & under free with adult pass