Naturescapes

Naturescapes - A new approach for Edmonton's school and park sites

Naturescapes are a wide and diverse range of projects and activities suitable for school and community parkland. These projects include planting native and ornamental plants, providing habitat for a diversity of animal and plant species, and sustaining a healthier environment.

Edmonton's Joint Use Agreement partners invite you to become a part of this vital change movement by getting involved with a Naturescapes project.

Getting started

 is available to help schools and community groups interested in improving their community and school park spaces. This resource includes:

• A comprehensive guide to ideas for Naturescapes projects
• Information on how to plan for and implement Naturescapes projects
• Native plant lists
• Programming activity ideas
• Detailed reference lists for written materials, websites, important contacts and funding sources

Another available resource is the naturalization working group report  . To access additional resources on naturescapes, contact one of the Joint Use Agreement partners listed below.

Why naturescapes?

The use of naturescapes is one way to lessen our negative impact on the environment. Lost species and natural habitats, increasing greenhouse gas emissions and depleted natural resources are all signs of a planet under strain. Naturescapes provide habitat for a diversity of animal and plant species while helping to sustain a healthier environment.

Edmonton's school children and community partners are responding to these environmental challenges by

• Conserving woodland habitat
• Planting flower gardens
• Designing and constructing habitats for many kinds of animals and plants in outdoor classrooms
• Developing community gardens

Naturescapes benefit in many ways by

• Enriching the diversity and beauty of the urban environment
• Providing meaningful ways to educate about the natural environment
• Fostering an environmental awareness
• Building a sense of community and school spirit
• Enhancing the conservation and preservation of natural environments
• Contributing to the livable community  

The Edmonton Joint Use Agreement partners include the City of Edmonton, Edmonton Catholic Schools and Edmonton Public Schools. Each partner has policies and programs to guide and support Naturescapes projects slated for community or school parkland. City of Edmonton staff also provide advice on Naturescapes projects for alternate sites such as utility corridors, transportation right of ways or commercial properties.  

For more information:

Online	Contact 311 Online

Telephone	In Edmonton: 311 Outside Edmonton: 780-442-5311
TTY	780-944-5555
Email	311@edmonton.ca