ALGONQUIN COLLEGE'S TINY FOREST CONNECTS LEARNING, NATURE AND LAND
New campus green space supports biodiversity, learning and Indigenous connection

 A new Tiny Forest is taking root at Algonquin College's Ottawa Campus, creating a living outdoor space that will support biodiversity, environmental learning and community connection for years to come. The project, led by Facilities Management through the Trees for Schools program in collaboration with EnviroCentre, is being established in front of Building G.

"This project is about transforming an existing campus space into a living, growing environment that benefits both our community and the ecosystem around us," said Patricia Thome, supervisor, Custodial and Grounds Operations, Facilities Operations, Algonquin College. "By expanding our tree canopy with native and climate-resilient plantings, we're supporting biodiversity and wildlife habitat while creating a space that students, employees and academic programs can connect with, enjoy and explore opportunities for outdoor and land-based learning for years to come."

The project also reflects the importance of relationships with the natural world.

"Nopiming is the word for forest in the Anishinàbemowin Algonquin language," said Anita Tenasco, director, Indigenous Initiatives, Algonquin College. "To be in relationship with the land is to connect with a forest. The Indigenous Initiatives team is pleased to support the planting and care of a Tiny Forest at the Ottawa Campus of Algonquin College."

The Tiny Forest will increase the campus tree canopy with native and climate-resilient species, helping create habitat for wildlife while contributing to a healthier and more resilient campus environment. Once established, the area will become a naturalized green space where students, employees and academic programs can learn, gather and engage with the environment.

The project will also serve as a hands-on learning environment that can be used by students, employees and academic programs across the College. Volunteer students, the Indigenous Initiatives Office and environmental programs will help support and care for the space, creating opportunities for land-based learning and environmental stewardship. Over the past three weeks, the Algonquin College Facilities team as well as student volunteers have been involved in various steps of the project, including preparing the site, laying mulch and planting the trees and other species.

Tiny forests are densely planted areas of native trees and shrubs designed to quickly establish thriving ecosystems that support biodiversity, improve air quality and create greener community spaces, according to the Green Communities Canada Tiny Forest program. 

At Algonquin College, the new Tiny Forest represents more than a planting project. It is an investment in sustainability, learning and a stronger connection between the campus community and the natural environment.

Watch a short video of the creation of the Tiny Forest.