By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
Nature Cantons-de-l’Est, in collaboration with the City of Sherbrooke and the Association for the Protection and Enhancement of the Ascot-Lennox Woodland (LabVal), will host a public launch of the Ascot-Lennox Woodland Conservation Project on Oct. 27. The event, aimed at promoting community engagement and awareness, will take place at the Amédée-Beaudoin Community Centre in Lennoxville from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Stéphane Tanguay, General Director of Nature Cantons-de-l’Est, explained in a recent interview the significance of the project, emphasizing that it represents a long-term commitment to conserving one of Sherbrooke’s most valuable natural areas. “This is a privately owned area,” Tanguay noted. “Our approach is to build trust with property owners and respect their willingness to participate. The conservation work will be done at their pace and according to their interests.”
According to a related release, the Ascot-Lennox Woodland, spanning approximately 280 hectares, is the largest green space within Sherbrooke’s urban boundary. It is home to diverse wildlife, plant species, and vital wetlands and waterways. “This woodland plays a critical role in providing ecological services like flood control, carbon sequestration, and air purification,” Tanguay added.
The Oct. 27 event will include formal presentations at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. In between, visitors can explore themed tables discussing key project components such as protection, restoration, enhancement, and governance. Tanguay highlighted the importance of engaging the local community, particularly the residents of Ascot and Lennoxville, noting, “This is an opportunity for people to get involved, whether through volunteering for clean-up activities, learning about the woodland’s ecological importance, or even supporting the project financially.”
Lennoxville Borough President Claude Charron emphasized in a same day conversation the collaborative nature of the initiative. “This is not just a city project. It’s a collective societal effort that unites various stakeholders, including a conservation organization, citizen group, and the municipality,” Charron explained. “It’s an innovative and long-term approach designed to connect our communities and ensure this ecosystem is preserved for future generations.”
One of the key challenges is the woodland’s private ownership, involving hundreds of lots held by individual property owners. The conservation group’s strategy is to create partnerships rather than acquire the entire woodland. “We are not planning on buying everything,” Tanguay said. “It would be too expensive and time-consuming. Instead, we will protect crucial areas and work with owners to ensure they understand the importance of maintaining habitats for species like salamanders. We provide them with the necessary information to protect the land themselves.”
The municipality of Lennoxville, as Charron explained, is providing financial support for the project. “We’re backing Nature Cantons-de-l’Est to help realize this long-term vision,” he said. Charron also pointed out that while the city’s role is supportive, the main responsibility rests with Nature Cantons-de-l’Est, ensuring a balanced and respectful approach that aligns with both municipal and environmental priorities.
Tanguay underscored the importance of respecting the rights of landowners, a principle central to the organization’s conservation efforts. “The project will only move forward based on the willingness of these owners. If they decide not to participate, we respect that,” he explained. This approach, he said, builds trust and allows for gradual, sustainable development that benefits both the ecosystem and the community.
In addition to financial contributions and volunteer opportunities, the Oct. 27 event will provide attendees with the chance to learn about the project’s ecological significance and practical measures to support its goals. “We want the community to be aware that their involvement is vital,” Tanguay stated. “From helping clean the woodland to participating in restoration activities, every contribution counts.”
Nature Cantons-de-l’Est has been active since 1989, focusing on conserving natural environments and raising awareness. The organization’s partnerships extend beyond municipalities to private landowners and educational institutions, highlighting its comprehensive and collaborative approach. “This is a great example of how we can collectively work towards protecting our environment while respecting private ownership,” Charron said.