Extension - Night closures on Stouffville Road to protect endangered species, Jefferson Salamander  

The City of Richmond Hill is home to one of the few known populations of Jefferson Salamanders in York Region. York Region is working in partnership with Toronto Region Conservation Authority to help ensure their survival.    
 
During this time of year, Jefferson Salamanders, an endangered species, cross Stouffville Road after leaving their breeding grounds to travel to their winter habitat.    

When Jefferson Salamanders make the crossing, there will be intermittent road closures to ensure safe passage. The closures will only occur during rain events when most salamanders complete their migration.   
 
Due to lack of rain, the intermittent closures of Stouffville Road, between Bayview Avenue and Leslie Street, have been extended until Friday, November 29, during the hours of 9 p.m. to 5 a.m.  

Signs will be posted to guide motorists and local access will be maintained.    
 
This section of Stouffville Road is in the Oak Ridges Moraine Natural Core Area. The Jefferson Salamanders natural habitat requires many of the features found in some areas of the Oak Ridges Moraine and the Niagara Escarpment, including undisturbed natural forests, rocky outcrops, wetlands, and ponds. Salamanders are a good indicator of healthy forests and ecosystems in this community.   
 
Recognizing the environmental significance of the area and the species, York Region is planning to construct a wildlife passage in the future.   

For more information, contact 1-877-464-9675 ext. 75000 or email @email