The City of Ottawa has finalized the acquisition of a 4.77-hectare forested property from Canderel Real Estate Firm through the federal Ecological Gifts Program (EGP), with the land transfer closing on May 1, 2025. The property, located adjacent to Trillium Woods, is part of a designated core area within the City’s Natural Heritage System, as outlined in the Official Plan. It includes important wetland features along Shirley’s Brook and provides critical habitat for species at risk.
Although previously privately owned, the land currently supports a stone dust pathway used by the public that is popular among walkers, runners, and cyclists. With City ownership, the site will be permanently protected for conservation purposes. Under the terms of the Ecological Gifts Program, the land must be preserved in its natural state in perpetuity. The certified fair market value of the donation is $1,768,500, which Canderel may deduct from its taxable income under the program’s provisions.
On Monday, June 16 at 2:00 pm there will be a public announcement regarding the donation of land to the City. The event will take place at the gazebo located near the east parking lot and soccer field at the Richcraft Recreation Complex. Following the announcement, a short walking tour will be held, guiding attendees through the paths that lead to the donated property. Members of the public are warmly invited to attend both the announcement and the walking tour. Please reach out to cathy.curry@ottawa.ca if you have any questions.