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Property developer Metcalfe Realty could face a fine as high as $100,000 after mature trees were clearcut, without a permit, in a wooded area of Kanata North being assessed to become a part of Ottawa’s natural heritage system.

According to a briefing note provided to the mayor’s office by city foresters, a “significant amount of mature trees” was cut at 936 March Rd. the week of May 26.

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Neighbour Paul Johanis was working in his backyard when he heard the sound of chainsaws near his property. He brought it to the attention of other community members and a city forester.

Johanis said the area where trees were cut is not visible from the road.

“Nobody would see it. You can’t get to it without trespassing,” he said, adding the clear-cutting activity could have gone unnoticed had he not heard the chainsaws.

City staff had been scheduled to assess the property June 13 to determine whether forested areas there should become a part of the Ottawa’s natural heritage system. If the area did become part of the system, development on the property would not be allowed and the land would be transferred to the city for a dollar.