About:
Forêt Capitale Forest is dedicated to increasing urban tree canopy within the Ottawa region through community planting events. We are guided by an afforestation model that places a large importance into maintaining and caring for trees after they’ve been planted until they reach a free-to-grow growth stage, this ensures a high survival rate. Furthermore, we will involve the community in planting as well as tree care efforts and as such will inspire a greater connection to the trees planted, increasing their chance of survival.
This forest resides on the traditional and un-ceded territory of the Anishinaabe Algonquin. This forest was planted in fall 2024 with in the Mer Bleue Sector of the Greenbelt owned by the National Capital Commission along the Bearbrook Creek. The forest is planted with a variety of native trees and shrubs that make up the Great Lakes – St. Lawrence forest type native to the region. Furthermore, many of species planted were chosen as they are suitable for riparian areas.
There are two large Natural Heritage Sites and conservation areas in the east of Ottawa; Mer Bleue Bog and Larose Forest. The two areas are major ecological features in the region. The potential to create a natural linkage between the Mer Bleue Bog with Larose Forest presents an excellent area of focus for afforestation efforts.
This forest was planted as the first site of a mulit-year and large scale effort to afforest an important corridor within the eastern part of Ottawa. Due to many land suitability factors including a close proximity to water, conservation areas and Natural Heritage Sites this forest will lead to an enhanced impact on ecosystem services and local biodiversity, potentially creating a wildlife corridor east of Ottawa.
It will also increase community well-being, creating an opportunity for community engagement in the planting and stewardship of the site.
Project Details
Year Planted
2024
Forest Type
Great Lakes – St. Lawrence
Native Trees and/or Shrubs Planted
1521
Forest Size
2 ha
