Suburban Forests and Wetlands Restored Through SNC–City Partnership
South Nation Conservation (SNC), with financial support from the City of Ottawa, has launched a series of environmental stewardship projects across three natural properties:
- Navan Forest – Forest habitat restoration
- Snake Island Forest – Wetland, pollinator, and forest habitat restoration
- Findlay Creek Boardwalk Conservation Area – Tree planting and habitat enhancement
These properties are located adjacent to suburban neighbourhoods and were secured in recent years through SNC’s Land Securement Program, made possible with public and private partnerships, to ensure a lasting natural legacy.
Navan Forest
Acquired in 2024, Navan Forest is undergoing extensive restoration focused on 30 acres severely damaged by the May 2022 Derecho Storm. Environmental surveys have identified 188 plant and animal species, highlighting the site’s ecological richness. Work began in July and will continue into 2026, including entrance improvements, perimeter trail creation, removal of hazardous trees, replanting with native species, and ongoing habitat monitoring.
Snake Island Forest
Snake Island Forest will undergo multi-habitat restoration to support wetlands, pollinators, and forest-dwelling wildlife. SNC staff and volunteers have been monitoring plant and animal species at the site since May, laying the groundwork for restoration activities.
Findlay Creek Boardwalk
Located within the provincially significant Leitrim Wetland, the Findlay Creek Boardwalk isbeing enhanced through native tree and shrub planting to strengthen wildlife habitat andimprove ecological connections in areas impacted by invasive species. These efforts build on the $1.7 million boardwalk expansion completed in late 2024, which improved public access to this important natural area.
“These projects are about restoring and protecting natural areas that are vital to our environment and community,” said Michelle Cavanagh, SNC Team Lead, Special Projects. “With the City’s support, we are improving biodiversity, building climate resilience, and ensuring these spaces remain healthy for generations.”
“The City is proud to support these restoration efforts in our rural communities.,” added Mayor Sutcliffe. “South Nation Conservation is doing important work that strengthens our environment, protects local wildlife and creates healthier ecosystems for everyone to enjoy.”
Community Involvement
SNC also collaborates annually with TD Friends of the Environment Foundation to bring TD Tree Days events to life to restore green spaces across its jurisdiction. This year’s community planting event was held at the Findlay Creek Boardwalk on Saturday, September 27, 2025.
To learn more about TD Tree Days and to register for upcoming tree planting event in your community, visit: www.tdtreedays.com/en-ca.
SNC reminds residents that while Snake Island Forest and the Findlay Creek Boardwalk remain open to visitors, Navan Forest will remain closed until restoration work is complete.
These initiatives are funded by the City of Ottawa and delivered by South Nation Conservation to protect and enhance local ecosystems.
To learn more, visit: www.nation.on.ca
For more information:
Erin Thorne
SNC Communications Specialist
ethorne@nation.on.ca | 1-877-984-2948