A.   Commons and Parking Lot Berms

B.   Wetland || Stormwater Management pond

C.   Meadow

D.   Ravine Slope

E.   Coppice

F    Propagation Gardens

G.   Bird Thicket

H.   Greenways                                                

  --------------Self-Directed Ecology Tour 2012.PDF

 ---------- Adobe Reader X (10.1.3)

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• there are 13 gardens and 7 berms demonstrate potential strategies for backyard biodiversity
•  organized by type and function, the gardens are planted with over 100 native species
•  as the trees grow, they'll cast shade and transfer soil moisture to the air, reducing heat island effect.

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• this pond collects sediment from run off, filtering stormwater before it is released to the Don River
• as the planted trees grow, thier shade will cool the pond, making it more hospitable for wildlife.
• the surrounding area was planted with soil-holidng shrubs, trees and wildflower in 2011. 

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• planted in 2010 with 26 species, this meadow provides water filtration and habitat
• offers a way to connect with Ontario's natual heritage
• occasional flooding and drought help ward off succession and larger woody species from becoming established 

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• the ravine slope was seeded with grass and wildflowers, and hand planted with a combination of trees and shrubs to prevent soil erosion.
• while inspiration for the plant lists was taken from the surrounding Don Valley, effortts were made to incorporate rare native species that offer educational opportunities
• striped Maples were planted between White Pines to encourage tall and straight trees. 

• a form of woodland management practiced for over 6,000 years in Britain, coppicing takes advantage of woody plants that quickly grow new shoots after being cut down.
• laid down in 2011 by artist Morgan Zigler, the Black Willow and Red Osler Dogwood were chosen for their flexibility and quick-growing shoots. 
• Materials harvested from this coppice will be used to create baskets and living fences 

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• established early in the sit'es revitalization on the industrial pad
• a great spot to see pollinators in ction, the propagation gardens are a consistent seed source for other area undergoing naturalization. 

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• planted in 2010, these shrubs, grasses and wildflowers provide habitat and food for birds and pollinators
• the birdfeeders are a primary location for particiapting in Project Feeder Watch, a winter bird monitoring program through Bird Studies Canada 

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• planted with water-tolerant vegetation, the greenways act as both sponge and funnel, helping water move through and around the site and eventually to the Stormwater Management Pond
• wet and shaded conditions provdie ideal habitat for mosses, ferns and wetland wildflowers.