Join us for our naturalization installation at Penhorn Lake in May 2025. Learn more and register here.
What is naturalization?
Naturalization is an ecologically-based approach to landscape management that seeks to enhance biodiversity and ecological resilience in the urban landscape using native or non-invasive-adapted plant species including flowering perennials, grasses, shrubs, and trees. The goal in some naturalization projects may be to create specific landscape types such as Acadian Forest, wetlands, meadows, and riparian areas. On July 7, 2022, Halifax Regional Council approved a report that provided direction to expand naturalization efforts in parks and right of ways at 32 sites.
Naturalization includes:
- native planting initiatives: installation of perennials, trees, etc., further supporting pollinators and local wildlife such as birds
- wetland restoration: restoring and creating wetlands to improve water quality, habitats and manage stormwater
- community programs: involving communities in planting and maintenance to foster ownership and stewardship
- public education: sharing the importance of naturalization and species it supports, including upcoming or ongoing naturalization project sites
- invasive species: events related to the removal of invasive species
Recent naturalization projects:
Where we've naturalized
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Why naturalize?
Naturalization has numerous ecological, environmental, educational and recreational benefits.
- Ecological benefits: Naturalization initiatives bring a diversity of plant species which provide the variety of stems, leaves, branches, flowers and fruits needed to provide food and shelter for a range of birds, mammals, and insects.
- Environmental benefits: Naturalization can improve air quality, reduce urban heat island effects, and mitigate stormwater runoff. It can also improve an ecosystem’s ability to cope with extreme weather events and pest outbreaks.
- Educational benefits: Naturalization fosters education about nature and develops ecological literacy. These benefits can be bolstered by partnering with local school groups.
- Recreational benefits: Naturalization in parks provides opportunities for recreation in proximity to nature which promotes mental health and encourages a more diverse use of recreational space.
What does it look like?
- Size and location: Areas can be as small as a few square meters, or as large as a coastline. They can be in underutilized areas within parks or in the road right of way.
- Early years: Although areas can appear sparse and unkept during the first several years, they will blend-in and look natural over time.
- Site usage: Sites may be used for wildlife viewing, photography, nature appreciation, play, and relaxation.
- Stewardship: Community leadership is needed for planting and on-going maintenance of naturalized areas.
Community resources
Nova Scotia Wild Flora Society
Download and print our naturalization fact sheet.
For more information about naturalization in parks, contact Tracy Jessen, Naturalization Coordinator.