Butternut trees are referred to as shade intolerant species meaning they typically propagates in open fields, along fence lines, or in small groups mixed in with hardwood stands.  Butternut was originally added to Ontario's Endangered Species Act, 2007 due to the spread of the Butternut Canker Fungus (Sirococcus clavigignenti-juglandacearum) which kills the cambium in elongated patches called cankers.  Currently, the Species Conservation Act, 2025 (SCA) provide protection to the specimens under O. Reg. 61/26 of the SCA. The protection of this species means that any activity that results in the harming or killing to individual trees is registrable under the SCA.    

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Species Conservation Act, 2025 and Butternut Do’s and Don’ts:

• A person can cut down a Butternut tree that was planted/cultivated or is confirmed to be a Butternut hybrid. 

• A person can prune a Butternut tree i.e., remove a hazard branch, if an expert determines it will not harm the tree.

• An unhealthy or dead Butternut tree can only be cut down if it is assessed as “non-retainable” by a Qualified Butternut Professional.

• Butternut wood from assessed unhealthy or dead trees may be bought or sold or used in any manner.

• If a person wishes to cut down a healthy Butternut tree of any size (as assessed by a Qualified Butternut Professional), then approval under the SCA may be required.  

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Visit www.fgca.net for more information on works around Butternut trees. 

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