Stories that inspire
CPAWS: Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society, Quebec section
The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS), Quebec section is an organization dedicated to protecting nature. In French, it is called SNAP Québec, SNAP being Société pour la nature et les parcs du Canada. Since 2001, the Quebec section has worked towards the establishment of a network of protected areas across the province. Its goal is to ensure the long-term protection of boreal forest, the Far North and the Saint Lawrence River, notably. In other words, the ecosystems that harbour our endangered species. Its efforts have led to the setting aside of thousands of square kilometres of protected area in Quebec. The Tursujuq National Park is but one example. It also works to ensure the proper management of existing protected areas. As well, it promotes the effective deployment of natural solutions to climate change issues.
A green lung for the East End of Montreal
In 2021, FGM supported two CPAWS / SNAP Québec projects. “A green lung for the East End of Montreal” was funded in the amount of $20,000 by the Collective Fund for Climate and Ecological Transition. This major project for the renaturalization of Île Sainte-Thérèse, a 540-hectare stretch of land in Varennes, has as its goal the creation of a nature park for recreation and tourism. In the fall, SNAP Québec coordinated the planting of more than 5,000 trees of about 20 different species. Several partners and nearly 300 citizen volunteers participated. The second phase of planting, this time with 10,000 trees, is set for the spring of 2022.
Connexion N
In 2021 as well, the Foundation also supported Connexion N, a project headed by CPAWS / SNAP Québec in partnership with SÉPAQ (Société des établissements de plein air du Québec), Fondation Monique-Fitz-Back, the Association des camps du Québec and MEC to offer a first-ever experience of the great outdoors to youngsters who had had no contact with nature. Each year, young people from all backgrounds spend three days immersed in, and discovering, nature. It’s a great way to help them sample the joys of the outdoors and experience an adventure that will make them appreciate natural environments, which will ultimately contribute to their protection. While the pandemic forced the cancellation of the 2021 edition, the organization is hard at work on a 2022 event.