High Park fire in Toronto

The City of Toronto will hold its annual High Park fire on Tuesday.

The “premeditated and carefully controlled” fire will burn between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. in five areas of the park near Bloor Street and Parkside Drive on the city's west side.

It depends on favorable weather conditions.

This process is part of Toronto's long-term plan to restore and protect rare Black Oak forests and savannas within the park. The fire is burning close to the ground, officials said, consuming dry leaves, small branches and grass stalks. Large trees should not be affected.

The idea is that the flames leave the scorched area so the plants can come back strong and healthy.

Photos from the park last year showed thick smoke engulfing trees and vegetation as officials monitored the blaze. At times, the trees were barely visible under the thick smoke.

Adam Taylor, a crew member with Lands and Forests Consulting, walks a sandwich in Toronto's High Park on April 13, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Young

Officials said the smoke from the fire should dissipate under ideal conditions, but “changes in weather could affect smoke drift and residential properties near the park.”

Residents are advised to close their windows or leave the area.

Some areas within the park will be closed to the public due to the burn. The park will also be closed to public transport.

Dancer Angela Boyer watches a ritual before a controlled burn to benefit the space ecosystem in Toronto's High Park, Thursday, April 13, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Young

The event will be preceded by a ceremony and spotting, led by local elder Vivian Recollet.