Online Webinar
Canada
This webinar will explore the restoration of a former 1.8-hectare dry waste disposal site in the upper Saint-Charles River watershed in Québec City, a key catchment area for drinking water. The project aims to re-establish native vegetation based on reference ecosystems in order to enhance biodiversity and restore ecological functions. A central theme will be the choice to prioritize soil regeneration while acknowledging the permanent and irreparable alterations caused by the landfill’s creation. The project also embraces the philosophy of working with nature and knowing when to let go, recognizing that ecosystems have their own trajectories and that human intervention has its limits.
The presentation will offer listeners insight into the practical realities of a restoration project led by a non-profit organization. It will encourage reflection on the ethics of restoration—including the sourcing of materials and the environmental cost of different methods—and highlight the limiting factors that can restrict a return to previous ecological states. Participants will see how strong baseline data can guide practitioner decisions and gain an appreciation for the essential role of biologists, while understanding that these projects rely on a diverse team of professionals. Finally, the webinar will also discuss the importance of stakeholder engagement and public education.