What are the benefits of naturalization?
The Brampton Valleys and Parks Naturalization Program provides a variety of ecological and social benefits to the city. Below is a sample list of benefits provided by naturalization.
Benefits of Naturalizing Brampton's Valleys and Parks
Environmental Benefits
- Increase plant diversity to create healthier, more resilient plant communities that can withstand the impacts of climate change
- Expand hte city's vegetation and tree canopy cover
- Create and/or improves wildlife habitat by introducing more wildlife into the valley
- Improves growing conditions for understory plants (e.g., woodland flowers, ferns and mosses)
- Creates cooler stream temperatures, improving fish habitats
- Reduces valley bank erosion and silt build-up
- Reduces air and water-based pollutants
Cultural/Socioecological Benefits
- Improves the health and wellbeing of individuals both physically and mentally
- Provides a place of refuge from extreme heat
- Increases interest among various user groups (e.g., hikers, cyclists, naturalists, and nature photographers)
- Enhances the City's valley trails and broader trail system
- Encourage educational groups to use the valley as a study tool
- A careful design approach to the naturalization process will encourage a safe user environment
Community Interest and Support
- Encourages active involvement and stewardship towards the city's valleylands from citizens and comunity groups such as local angler groups, naturalist groups and Scouts Canada