Welcome
Our objective is to apply network science to design an ecological network for the lowlands of Saint-Laurence around greater Montreal. This network is designed to maintain biodiversity and ecosystem services and be resilient to expected regional climate change and land use change over the coming century. We are working with regional and municipal stakeholders to incorporate our results into the implementation of Montreal's greenbelt. Why an ecological network? |
Did you know...?1) The fragmentation of the forest reduces biodiversity and degrades many ecological services. The region includes 1600 vascular plants, 130 of which are threatened.
2) 2,3% of the territory is legally recognized as a protective area, 60% of which is wetland. Only 1% of the terrestrial ecosystems are protected. 3) Many environmental, social and economic advantages will result from putting into place an ecological network in our region. For example, · The carbon stored in forest fragments of <20ha is equivalent to a year of carbon emissions by the city of Montréal. · Contact with nature is essential for the healthy development of children and for the emotional and physical well being of everybody. |