Operator ADM Aéroports de Montréal has announced the creation of an ecological park in Saint-Laurent borough, north of Montréal-Trudeau International Airport.
The announcement follows discussions with Canadian Minister of Transport Marc Garneau, who supports changing the land’s vocation to an ecological park. The more than 2,000,00ft2 (185,800m2) property will be preserved and landscaped for the benefit of the entire community, according to ADM.
“As part of its environmental policy, ADM is committed to protecting areas with high-ecological value at its sites. Preserving this sector underscores this commitment,” said Philippe Rainville, ADM president and CEO.
ADM has compiled an ecological inventory of the site and will ensure its safeguarding. Marshes and swamps are present on a good portion of the site, along with mature woodland, birds and mammals.
“This initiative reflects our goal of offering the community a place to connect with nature. Its proximity to the REM [Réseau express métropolitain] station at the Technoparc will make it accessible to a greater number of people. In the coming weeks, a clean-up operation will be organized and a landscaping plan drawn up by our experts,” said Rainville.
The land is adjacent to the airport site and, in accordance with the requirements of government regulation TP 1247F, ‘Land Use in the Vicinity of Aerodromes’, ADM will continue to be responsible for ongoing wildlife management and bird hazard control.