The Town of Rosemère has completed its final land acquisitions in the Grand Coteau Forest, securing nearly half a hectare of environmentally significant woodlands. This marks the conclusion of the town’s efforts to preserve these natural spaces permanently, shielding them from real estate development.

The latest purchases, located on the southwest side of the forest, were made possible through contributions from the Gouvernement du Québec and the Communauté métropolitaine de Montréal (CMM), each providing $5,727 toward the $17,684 total cost. Rosemère invested $6,230 of its own funds in the initiative.

This latest acquisition is part of a broader conservation effort that began in 2021, when the town purchased 13.1 hectares of woodland. In 2023, an additional seven hectares were secured with provincial and metropolitan support. In total, the town has conserved approximately 20.5 hectares of forest as part of the Trame verte et bleue du Grand Montréal, a network designed to protect natural environments and enhance green spaces across the region. These acquisitions will further integrate into the Grand Coteau Forest Corridor, which extends from the agricultural lands of Mirabel to the peat bogs of L’Assomption.

Beyond environmental preservation, the acquisition of the Grand Coteau Forest carries significant civic importance. Green spaces like this provide residents with accessible natural environments that contribute to physical and mental well-being. Preserving these lands ensures that current and future generations will benefit from their ecological richness, offering opportunities for recreational activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and environmental education.

The move also reflects a broader commitment to sustainable urban planning. As cities face increasing pressure from urban sprawl and development, initiatives like these demonstrate the value of balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility. By securing these lands, Rosemère sets a precedent for municipalities seeking to integrate conservation efforts into their long-term planning.

Government and municipal officials underscored the significance of these acquisitions. Quebec Finance Minister and Member for Groulx Eric Girard highlighted the importance of maintaining Rosemère’s green spaces for public enjoyment. Valérie Plante, Chair of the CMM, pointed to the conservation efforts as crucial to meeting the goal of protecting 30% of the metropolitan area by 2030, while also enhancing climate resilience. Rosemère Mayor Eric Westram reaffirmed the town’s commitment to safeguarding its section of the Grand Coteau Forest for future generations.

The Trame verte et bleue du Grand Montréal, funded by the CMM, the provincial government, and municipal administrations, aims to preserve natural habitats while promoting active transportation and mitigating climate change. The project contributes to regional biodiversity and quality of life, reinforcing Montreal’s reputation as a sustainable urban environment. Rosemère’s commitment to conservation demonstrates the role that small municipalities can play in broader environmental efforts, ensuring that nature remains an integral part of the urban landscape.