About the ORM | STORM Coalition

An ancient landform, a vital ecological lifeline

The Oak Ridges Moraine is a geological landform created during the last ice age in Ontario over 12,000 years ago. As one of Ontario's largest moraines, its 160km are comprised of rolling hills, river and stream valleys, and large blocks of mixed forest, which provide vital ecological services as well as solace and a sense of connection to the people who live, work and play on it. It is home to extensive habitat for flora and fauna, and provides exceptional recreational opportunities for people living in the region alongside the six million people within driving distance of this incredible landscape.

The Oak Ridges Moraine stretches 160km from roughly Bolton to Peterborough and is around 13km wide along its range. As glaciers retreated during the last ice age, an accumulation of sand, till, and more was left behind, creating a ridge - the Moraine - that today stands up to 225m higher than the surrounding area. It is the largest accumulation of glacial material in Ontario.

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A vital part of Southern Ontario's water systems

The Oak Ridges Moraine is more than just a beautiful landform feature with breathtaking vistas, rolling hills, wooded valleys and kettle lakes. Water, one of its most precious features, lies hidden below the ground surface, sustaining the health of the many watersheds that originate on the Moraine and directly providing drinking water to over 250,000 people.

Seen directly from above, the first and most startling impression is "This is where the rivers begin!" All along the ridge of this region are many finger patterns of tiny headwater streams bubbling out of the ground in seeps, swales, and springs. These trickles of water join forces, delivering cold, clean water to the many rivers and streams that flow north and south from the Moraine. Up or downstream are remains of dams signifying how important the fast-flowing rivers once were to the economy of a century ago.

The ORM: Southern Ontario's "Rain Barrel"

The Moraine has been described as Southern Ontario's "Rain Barrel". Its permeable sands and gravels absorb and collect precipitation, which slowly recharges the deep aquifers below the ground. These sand and gravel aquifers store, filter and release this groundwater to over 65 watercourses flowing north and south into Georgian Bay, Lakes Simcoe, Scugog, Rice and Ontario.

An important ecological landform

Along with managing and storing water, the Moraine also plays a number of other roles for wildlife, residents and nearby neighbours, and visitors.

Habitat for Wildlife

Well-forested areas, wetlands and kettle lakes, and more are home to thousands of species of plants and animals, including many species at risk.

Flood & Erosion Control

The Moraine's porous soils and forests absorb rainfall and reduce runoff, thereby preventing erosion, and mitigating flooding at a local level.

Clean Air

Upwards of 30% or more of forest cover along with wetlands on the Moraine filter pollutants, produce oxygen, and improve air quality at a local level as well.

A Home To Many

Strung along the Moraine are historic towns that show a pattern of conurbation - the classic village center ringed by modern subdivisions, schools, and more.

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Recreational Enjoyment

With trails, protected areas, and more, the Moraine is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and naturalists, bringing eco-tourist dollars to growing urban centers.