Oct 21st, 2024

MEDIA ADVISORY: Tiny Forests Partnership Branches Out to Two New Ottawa Community Housing Communities 

Oct. 23 and 25 – Ottawa, ON – A partnership with Ottawa Community Housing, EnviroCentre and Forêt Capitale Forest has planted seeds in two more communities.   

What makes a Tiny Forest unique? It’s a special type of forest designed to thrive in small urban spaces. Packed with native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers, these forests are a powerhouse of growth. The soil they grow in is carefully amended to mimic the mature forest floor that would have been found in this area long ago.   

These Tiny Forests work like magic, providing shade, reducing heat, dampening noise, filtering rainwater, and boosting Ottawa’s biodiversity. But they’re not just functional-they also offer a serene spot to relax, appreciate nature, and socialize with other community members.     

Before the soil was laid, tenants were actively involved in the decision-making process, providing their valuable input on the location of the forests and the plants. This collaborative approach ensures that the tiny forests are not just a part of the community, but a reflection of it.   

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.  

In 2023, thanks to the partnership with EnviroCentre and Forêt Capitale Forest, three tiny forests were planted at Lexington, Esson Place-Hunt Club and Cahill-Woodland Place.   

Event Details:   

The planting events will take place over two days. Attendees will include OCH staff, tenants, EnviroCentre and Forêt Capitale Forest staff, and local municipal political representatives.   

Agenda Oct. 23 (1909 Russell Road)  

12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.: Welcome and speeches  

1:00 to 3:00 p.m.: Planting  

Agenda Oct. 25 (204 Wiggins Pvt)  

3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.: Welcome and speeches  

4:00 to 6:00 p.m.: Planting  

To RSVP or schedule an interview, please contact:     

Jennifer McIntosh   
Communications Specialist   
Ottawa Community Housing   
media@och.ca      
613-914-9953