This event is open to the public.
Are you the type of person who is always up for a challenge? We’re searching for intrepid volunteers who are interested in helping us plant 1,500 trees as part of a large afforestation project in the Mer Bleue sector. Thanks to the generous support of Trees For Life and the International Congress on Academic Medicine this project will bring new life to a beautiful site that’s more remote and rugged than our typical urban planting locations. It’s the perfect opportunity for those with a bold and adventurous tree-planting spirit!
No experience is required — we’ll provide all the tools, training, and guidance you need. This is a family-friendly event, welcoming individuals, groups, and children of all ages. Please note: due to the uneven terrain, the site may not be suitable for participants with mobility concerns.
Volunteer spots are limited to ensure a meaningful, hands-on experience, so we encourage early registration to secure your place.
Why are we planting here?
This site was highlighted in our Afforestation Plan as a high-priority suitable afforestation location, which provides a unique opportunity to expand the Mer Bleue – Larose Forest ecological corridor. There are two large Natural Heritage Sites and conservation areas east of Ottawa; Mer Bleue Bog and Larose Forest. The two areas are major ecological features in the region and creating a natural linkage between the Mer Bleue Bog and Larose Forest presents an excellent area of focus for afforestation efforts.
This forest resides on the traditional and un-ceded territory of the Anishinaabe Algonquin. It was planted in fall 2024 (1,500 trees) and fall 2025 (1,300 trees) within the Mer Bleue Sector of the Greenbelt owned by the National Capital Commission. This planting is directly along the north and south banks of Bearbrook Creek. The site is planted with a variety of native trees and shrubs that make up the Great Lakes – St. Lawrence forest type. Furthermore, many of species planted were chosen as they are suitable for riparian areas.
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.
Mer Bleue Planting Site (North of Bearbrook Creek)
Across from 4108 Hall Road
Carlsbad Springs, ON
K0A 1K0
Please refer to the site map below for the exact meeting point.
- Site Map

Free parking is available along Hall Road.
- Wear clothes that you find easy to move in and closed-toed shoes.
- We recommend wearing long pants and waterproof footwear.
- Dress according to the weather.
- Bring drinking water, as there is no access to running water on-site. We will have a cooler of drinking water available should you need to refill.
- Optional: Your favourite gardening gloves. FCF will provide gloves if you don’t have any.
If you have any questions, please contact us at comms@foretcapitaleforest.ca. We look forward to seeing you there!
Think you’re up for the challenge?
Register Here
