Once upon a time, in our time, there was a small piece of forest wedged between two large green spaces. On one side, there was a national park very popular with hikers, and on the other, a huge swamp where many animals lived. Both the national park and the swamp were protected by laws: no one could destroy them.
This is why, for many humans, the small wooded area did not seem very important. Were its two large neighbors not enough for plants and animals to flourish in complete tranquility?
Different people therefore wanted to exploit this small forest: we could cut down its trees and transform them into paper! Or put a road through it! And why not build beautiful new houses there?
After all, a few fewer trees wouldn’t make a difference, right…?
Not so fast! shouted biologists! This tiny forest that looks like nothing is in fact a vital ecological corridor for many species!
An ecological corridor? Yes ! It is a natural passage that allows animals to move from one environment to another to feed, reproduce or hibernate.
The wood turtle, for example, ABSOLUTELY needs this little wooded area to pass safely from the park to the swamp to hibernate under the ice! Because since it moves very slowly (at a snail’s pace!), it is often run over when crossing roads.
His disappearance would not only be sad. In addition to being very cute, this turtle contributes to the balance of its environment. If it disappears, other species could be threatened.
Upon learning of this, 22 local residents decided to take action. The group joined forces and, with a little help from governments, they actually… bought the forest!
To build a chalet there? To go cross-country skiing? No ! The group doesn’t even intend to touch this forest! By purchasing it, these 22 people ensured that no human will be able to destroy it. This way, turtles and company will be able to live there in peace.
This decision was also good for these 22 citizens: it showed them that, despite the scale of the environmental crisis, it is possible to take concrete actions to help find a solution!
This story, told in the form of a modern tale, is very true! In September, 22 Mauricie citizens raised $650,000 to purchase the ecological corridor that connects the Mauricie national park to the Tourbière-du-Lac-à-la-Tortue nature reserve.
According to an article by Jean-Louis Bordeleau, Duty
By Frédérick Lavoie, collaborator
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