We the Lennox and Addington Stewardship Council are a non-profit organization (of 28 years) working with citizens on responsible land care and preservation of our natural resources.
The Town of Greater Napanee has declared a parcel of land adjacent to J.J. O’Neill Catholic School as surplus. The Catholic School Board has expressed interest in purchasing the land to convert it to a parking lot to help with traffic flow following the school expansion project. Many residents in the area wish to see the space become a park, and it is currently well used for walking. We do not wish to interfere with the plans of the school board. However, we have suggested (to the town) the creation of a Little Forest as an option to consider for this green space.
A Little Forest is a small area of densely packed, fast growing native trees and shrubs. Dr. Akira Miyawaki, a Japanese botanist, developed the technique to restore natural vegetation on degraded lands.
Little Forests improve biodiversity, providing habitat for birds and small animals. They decrease the impacts of climate change, absorbing carbon dioxide and cooling the air. They buffer against the effects of extreme rain events and provide flood control services free of charge.
Napanee has lost many of the trees that once lined our streets. Tree planting is an investment in natural infrastructure for this and future generations.
We would very much like to collaborate with the town, community partners and surrounding neighbours in the creation of the first Little Forest in Napanee. We would be delighted to include the students from J.J. O’Neill; this green space could inspire an ‘outdoor classroom.’ The area may even be large enough to accommodate both a parking lot and a Little Forest.
Respectfully,
Marilyn Murray
Chair, Lennox and Addington Stewardship Council