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Buckthorn removal work in the Tony-Proudfoot park forest
In 2023, the City of Pointe-Claire began cutting down dead ash trees affected by the emerald ash borer in the natural forest of Tony-Proudfoot Park.
The forest composition of the woodland is also affected by the presence of buckthorn which is an invasive exotic plant that prevents the natural regeneration of native species and leads to significant impacts on biodiversity. This plant spreads easily and invades many areas, becoming the dominant species.
As the woodland is composed of treed wetlands, the City’s interventions must be carried out manually. Over the next few weeks, the City of Pointe-Claire will proceed with manually uprooting buckthorn stems and covering the stumps with a plastic membrane. The aim is to prevent this invasive exotic species from regrowing.
By the end of September 2024, approximately 250 native trees and 250 shrubs of various sizes, adapted to the environment, will be planted. The diversity of their species will ensure the development of a healthy urban forest and the natural restoration of the site.
These efforts to combat invasive species like buckthorn are part of our broader commitment to conserving and restoring wetlands. These ecosystems play a crucial role in stormwater management, particularly by slowing the flow of water into our infrastructure during extreme weather events. Wetlands act as natural sponges, absorbing excess water and thereby reducing the risk of flooding.
Informations:
Public Works
514-630-1230
tp@pointe-claire.ca