Oct 25th, 2024

Green Corner: Two New Tiny Forests Take Root at Russell Manor and Strathcona Heights 

“Tiny Forests are doing so much work for our communities. Not only do they make them more beautiful, but they also provide multiple nature-based services like absorbing water, increasing biodiversity, and enriching the soil. More trees mean we have a fighting chance to limit climate change by reducing the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. They are indeed miracle workers.” 

That’s what OCH’s Senior Manager of Conservation and Sustainability, Daniel Dicaire, had to say about two new, tiny forests at Russell Manor and Strathcona Heights. 

Each forest takes up approximately 100 square meters. Each square meter will have a tree, bush and shrub – meaning the two communities are home to 300 new plants.  

Barb, a resident of Russell Manor, was excited to see the trees grow. She said the community was able to get some input on the types of plants and suggested things like fruit trees and berry bushes.  

How do tiny forests work? They give nature a helping hand by using special soil designed to foster growth. Because of the special soil and how trees are planted, it will take about 15-20 years to achieve what will look like a century-old forest. 

OCH tiny forests are funded by the generous support of the Josette Robertson and Joan Johnston Family Foundation- Ottawa Community Foundation. Additional support for the forest at Russell Manor is provided by Canadian Trees for Life. Additional support for the forest at 204 Wiggins Priv. is provided by the Echo Foundation through the Green Communities Canada Living Cities Fund.    

The two new communities where forests were planted on Oct. 23 and 25 are home to 1,335 residents – nearly half children and youth. Tiny forests are crucial to ensure green spaces for future generations as they replace trees lost in recent years – due to insects like the emerald ash borer and storms.