Forest restoration on Beausoleil Island (Bimadinaagogi)

Parks Canada is restoring forests on Beausoleil Island (Bimadinaagogi) through the 2 Billion Trees Initiative, with a strong focus on responding to climate change and honouring tree species that are culturally significant to Indigenous communities. This work supports the recovery of lands damaged by past development while strengthening forests to better withstand warming temperatures, emerging pests, and extreme weather. Central to this effort is respect for Indigenous knowledge, cultural values, and long-standing relationships with the land.

Why restoration was needed

The restoration area on Bimadinaagogi has changed a lot since the 1930s, when it was developed for park use.  Before the park's founding, tall pines were harvested in the area, and sand and gravel were quarried for mainland shore communities.  This combined with years of construction, infrastructure removal, and regular mowing left the site with poor soils, limited shade, and little natural vegetation. These conditions have prevented the natural forest from growing back and made the area especially vulnerable to climate stress.

Why restoration was needed

Tree species planted were carefully selected for their cultural importance and their ability to thrive under future climate conditions. Species were also chosen for the food, habitat, and nesting opportunities they provide for a wide range of wildlife, from migratory birds to pollinators and small mammals. By restoring tree species that support diverse habitats, the project helps rebuild healthy, functioning forest communities. Seeds sourced from areas further south were chosen to help forests adapt to warmer temperatures, drought, and increased pest pressure. Many of these trees hold deep cultural significance for Indigenous communities, including oak, sugar and red maple, black ash, yellow and paper birch, basswood, beech, and cedar. Planting these trees supports cultural continuity, Traditional Knowledge, and long-term access to food, fibre and medicine.

Forest threats

The impacts of the Emerald Ash Borer highlight the growing challenges forests face as the climate changes. New threats such as oak wilt further increase the vulnerability of culturally and ecologically important tree species. Because oak wilt can spread on infected nursery plants, Parks Canada is avoiding oak seedlings from outside sources to prevent accidentally introducing this disease.  Instead, seeds and acorns are being collected from healthy oak and ash trees on Beausoleil Island (Bimadinaagogi), which will be saved in seed banks, propagated, and grown for future planting. This approach reduces the risk of disease introduction while preserving the integrity of the island’s oak and ash populations. By planting a wider variety of tree species, protecting at-risk species through local seed collection, and planning for the effects of climate change, this restoration work strengthens forest resilience and helps ensure these culturally and ecologically significant trees continue to thrive for future generations.

What You Can Do

Invasive species such as the emerald ash borer and plant diseases such as oak wilt, are often spread when people move firewood between locations. To help prevent this, only buy and use firewood from the park you are visiting.

You can also make a difference by planting tree species that are well-suited to future climate conditions in your area. Take time to learn about the plants you grow in your garden and avoid species known to be invasive, such as phragmites, purple loosestrife, and glossy buckthorn.