Université de Montréal
IN-24: Innovation A

Part of a Heritage district of Montreal, the Université de Montréal wants to enhance and maintain the biodiversity found on the Northern flank of Mount Royal. To carry out such an undertaking, the University has adopted a Plan for Biodiversity in 8 objectives that is ongoing until 2020 :

PLAN FOR BIODIVERSITY – UNIVERSITÉ DE MONTRÉAL

1- Improve the condition of our woodlands and promote the dissemination of their ecological wealth:

1-1. Reinforcement of areas already rich in biodiversity in order to preserve them but also so that they become reservoirs of biodiversity.

1-2. Participation in the establishment of ecological corridors, that is to say of continuous or intermittent natural environments, arranged between zones of importance in terms of biodiversity in order to allow a better passage of living organisms.

1-3. Habitat rehabilitation of native species, either through the maintenance of natural habitats or the development of shelters, nest boxes and tree plantations.

1-4. Helping to maintain local flora by closing non official trails: these trails are the result of a random and anarchic development which, in the end, greatly damages the soil.

1-5. Combating invasive species.

2- Actively participate in the development of the 3rd Summit Park:

2-1. Participation in forums, work committees and other events in partnership with the various stakeholders (City of Montreal, Ministries, Friends of the Mountain, SOCENV, other stakeholders).

2-2. Realization of joint projects with other players of Mount Royal.

3- Ensure the carrying out of inventories and monitoring of the species present.

3-1. Updating existing inventories.

3-2. Creation of new inventories.

4- Promoting the development of forest / city food projects:

4-1. Developing Urban Agriculture by Involving the University Community.

4-2. Strengthening the nurturing role of our woodlands, i.e. encouraging the implantation of indigenous species edible or with medicinal properties.

4-3 Contribution to the development of ecological corridors linking Mount Royal to other large green spaces.

5- Be proactive in stormwater management:

5-1. Implementation of stormwater retention measures to reduce pressure on city drainage systems during heavy rainfall.

5-2. Creation of aquatic habitats (wetlands).

6- Establish a green space management plan for the various campuses:

6-1 Development of a green space management plan for the main and St-Hyacinthe campuses.

7- Incorporating biodiversity-enhancing mechanisms into built heritage:

7-1. Installing nest boxes and shelters.

7-2. Reducing Heat Isolations.

7-3. Planting climbing plants.

8- Outreaching and mobilizing the community about biodiversity:

8-1. Creating a significant volunteer force.

8-2. Conducting educational workshops for the general public, elementary schools and day camps.

8-3. Develop partnerships with local stakeholders (Friends of the Mountain, Biodome, Space for Life, Eco-Quartier, Youth Table, community and environmental organizations and many others.

8-4. Installation of information panels.

8-5. Development of nature interpretive tools (kits).

8-6. Creation of a walking trail identifying the remarkable plant species.

8-7. Easy access to information on our biodiversity through a website and various reports.