Additional support provided by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.
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In increasing numbers, Canadians are taking action to make their communities greener and healthier. Through local community naturalization initiatives, urban open spaces-such as parks, ravines and abandoned lots-are being transformed into thriving natural environments. Community naturalization is about people working together to restore altered or degraded public spaces by planting native trees, shrubs and wildflowers.
Like nature itself, cities are dynamic webs of relationships and activities. They can be vibrant cultural environments that offer economic prospects and new opportunities. But as more and more people are attracted to cities, greater stress is placed on the natural systems that support us. As we have made room for ourselves, forests have been cleared, wetlands have been drained and waterways have become polluted. Fortunately, we are beginning to understand that a healthy environment is critical to our own health and well-being. Community naturalization provides the opportunity to take action.
People across the country are joining the growing movement to bring nature back to the city by getting involved in local initiatives. Communities are working to heal damaged landscapes and restore the diversity of plant and animal life that once existed. This involvement teaches people about their local natural heritage and the ecological features that make their communities unique.
Community naturalization is also about working together toward shared goals. By bringing together people of diverse ages, cultures and abilities, the process strengthens community and encourages cooperation. Participating in a naturalization project instills a sense of pride and stewardship and also empowers individuals to make a difference.
As you prepare to take on this challenge, keep in mind that naturalization is more than transforming an open space within our community. It is a way of reconnecting with the natural world and creating an awareness of our place within it. And ultimately, community naturalization is about changing the way we think about cities-to see them as sustainable places where natural areas are as much a part of the infrastructure as are roads, buildings and bridges. They are places where nature should be embraced and able to thrive.
No Plot Is Too Small is a practical step-by-step guide designed to help communities take action. It is intended for those with a desire to make their communities greener, healthier spaces through collective action. This book will guide you through all stages of planning a successful and sustainable initiative that is responsive to the needs of your community and the environment. Whether your goal is to transform a small neighbourhood parkette or contribute to the restoration of a major valley corridor, No Plot Is Too Small provides the tools to help make your vision become a reality.
This guide discusses the planning and procedures to consider before you break ground. It also examines hands-on aspects such as taking an inventory of your site, fundraising and getting ready for planting day. The approaches suggested are adaptable and should be modified to meet the unique needs of your group, your site and your community. The contents are not meant to be followed rigidly as no single technique will be appropriate for every project.
This guide will not provide answers to all your questions-in fact, it will likely raise many new ones. But it will help you get started, answering many of the questions that will arise as you embark on the path to creating healthier natural open spaces.
Look to No Plot Is Too Small for guidance and inspiration as you take on the exciting challenge of bringing nature back to your community.
Additional support provided by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.
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