Petition urges protection of Champlain-Voyageurs Ecological Corridor and biodiversity in Gatineau
Tashi Farmilo
A petition titled "Protégeons le corridor écologique Champlain-Voyageurs et la biodiversité à Gatineau" has been initiated by Celine Lopez, calling attention to the ongoing real estate project on the Champlain Green Corridor in Gatineau. The petition aims to raise awareness about the ecological significance of the corridor, which serves as a vital habitat for diverse wildlife and connects Gatineau Park to the Ottawa River.
The Village Champlain project, led by developer Brigil, involves the construction of a large residential complex within the corridor. This area encompasses a range of essential habitats that support various plant species, including those with special conservation status. It is also likely to be home to around 30 species classified as vulnerable, and it provides refuge for century-old trees and multiple wetland environments.
A connectivity study conducted by the University of Québec in Outaouais (UQO) has highlighted a stark discrepancy between the intended function of the corridor as a green wildlife passage and the current real estate development on the site. Moreover, there are discrepancies in the identification and preservation of wetlands between Brigil's assessments and those of the City of Gatineau.
While acknowledging the importance of economic development, concerned citizens are troubled by the significant and adverse ecological impact of the project in its current form. In response, the petition calls upon Mayor France Bélisle and members of the Gatineau municipal council to honour their commitments to climate change mitigation and environmental protection.
The petition highlights several specific actions to be taken by the mayor and members of the municipal council. First, it calls for the preservation of the corridor's connectivity by mandating a minimum distance of 200 meters to the west. Second, the petition advocates for the involvement of an independent expert to identify and document wetland areas, with the findings being transparently communicated to the public. Third, the petition emphasizes the need for safe wildlife crossings along Boulevard Lucerne and Chemin Aylmer, which would involve appropriate signage and a reduction in vehicle speeds. Fourth, the petition proposes amending municipal regulations to ensure that all environmental studies related to construction are accessible to the public. Fifth, the petition urges the identification and designation of all green corridors within the Gatineau area, ensuring their protection from future development.
The petition remains open, inviting concerned individuals to join the cause and contribute to the preservation of Gatineau's ecological integrity and biodiversity: https://www.change.org/p/pr%C3%A9servons-le-corridor-%C3%A9cologique-champlain-voyageur-et-la-biodiversit%C3%A9-de-gatineau?signed=true.
Photo caption: A stunning blue jay perches on a branch in Gatineau Park, a symbolic image representing the call for action in the petition "Protégeons le corridor écologique Champlain-Voyageurs et la biodiversité à Gatineau" initiated by Celine Lopez. The petition draws attention to the pressing concerns surrounding the ongoing real estate project on the Champlain Green Corridor in Gatineau.
Photo credit: Tashi Farmilo
