The Cootes to Escarpment Eco Park System: Protecting our Remarkable Natural and Cultural Heritage

Hamilton is greener than many think with fantastic urban forests networked throughout the city says Dr. David Galbraith, head of science for the Royal Botanical Gardens. As part of the Niagara Escarpment UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve the beautiful natural surroundings integrate people with nature. It gives us a sense of place where we can live, remember and renew our connections with nature.

With the purchase of the Peasant View property the area is now the only wetlands of the Great Lakes that are connected to the escarpment. The establishment of the Eco Park System has linked many different agencies together to help buffer against change while managing the development and natural areas. Egrets, osprey and bald eagles live within the city limits and the natural areas expand as regrowth returns. Engaging the community through stewartship and development projects like the Rotary Clubs of Dundas are undertaking in the Velduis property will help preserve and regrow the area of Dundas that was once part of the Desjardins Canal. People can live healthier lives through smart development.