Community Mobilization Drives Conservation and Protection
Boucher Forest Park is a community-driven project that aims to create a large urban park on the 360 acres of Boucher Forest land owned by the City of Gatineau, making this natural haven accessible while showcasing its ecological value.
Master Plan and Development Plan
In 2019, the Boucher Forest Foundation worked with the City of Gatineau, local organizations, and forest users to develop the park’s development plan and master plan. A comprehensive review of documentation from the Foundation, the City of Gatineau, and partner organizations was conducted to obtain an up-to-date picture of the situation. You need to know where you come from to understand where you’re going, don’t you?
The Three Pillars
The Foundation’s three priorities, which guide all of its decisions and actions, are biodiversity conservation through the development of trails and infrastructure, universal accessibility, and education.
To enhance both the visitor experience and safety, the Foundation has planned a variety of improvements that will create a unique range of outdoor activities in Gatineau. This is the Foundation’s first pillar. Several years after the project began, there is no shortage of ideas for the future!
Once completed, funds raised through fundraising campaigns will help:
- Develop nearly 8 km of trails, bridges, and boardwalks that will help protect wetland habitats;
- Install park furniture and interpretive signage;
- Create a fitness trail and an introductory mountain biking course;
- Build a welcome pavilion, additional community facilities, and educational programs for young people.
In addition to its many benefits for air quality and residents’ quality of life, the park is free to access, and its universal crushed-stone trail makes it especially appreciated by visitors with reduced mobility. Accessibility is the Foundation’s second pillar.
In the future, the Foundation plans to collaborate with regional partners to offer educational activities in the park, including camps, a forest school at the pedestrian shelter, guided hikes, and public events.
This is the Foundation’s third pillar.
