How the Ottawa Valley Plays a Role in #OnlyOneEarth

Healthy ecosystems contribute to sustainable development, from climate action, to thriving wild spaces for species at risk, to providing fresh air and water for families, and so much more.

This year’s theme for World Environment Day is #OnlyOneEarth and “calls for collective, transformative action on a global scale to celebrate, protect, and restore our planet.” 

Here’s how the wild spaces in the Ottawa Valley play a role in sustainability for the environment, species, and communities.

A 7,700-year-old internationally recognized wetland

Did you know the Greenbelt was home to the largest bog and natural area in the Capital region (and the second-largest bog in southern Ontario)?

Mer Bleue is a 7,700-year-old bog where you’ll find regionally rare plants and birds, plus wildlife you typically only find within northern boreal bogs.

Mer Bleue has been internationally recognized for its role in mitigating climate change under the following designations: 

• A wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands
• A provincially significant wetland
• A provincially significant life and earth science area of natural and scientific interest

The Greenbelt’s unique ecological makeup is home to over 60 species at risk and its protection can help the Government of Canada achieve its goal of protecting 30% of our country’s lands and waters by 2030.

A 2,500 square kilometres watershed providing natural climate solutions

Communities across the Ottawa Valley are experiencing an increased amount of floods in recent years due to the climate crisis.

Floods aren’t simply inconveniences, though. They can wipe away homes and the farms feeding our families.

Large and intact watersheds are one of our strongest defences against these natural disasters since mature forests reduce the risk of water run-off into nearby communities.

This includes our iconic Madawaska Highlands, the 2,500 square kilometres of forests, lakes, and rivers playing a pivotal role in providing nature-based solutions to protect our communities from the effects of the climate crisis. 

A home to 118 rare or endangered species

Many of us know Gatineau Park for its mesmerizing landscapes stretched across 361 square kilometres, consisting of 50 lakes and countless trails for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy throughout the entire year.

But Gatineau Park is also home to 118 rare or endangered species, including the eastern wolf, lynx, and white-tailed deer. 

Gatineau Park has the greatest diversity of habitats across all Quebec parks alongside being home to the largest number of endangered species.