Leslie Lookout Park
Toronto, Ontario
Project Overview
Dougan Ecology joined CCxA’s team in early 2022 to provide ecological expertise and guidance for the development and implementation of a mini forest and swale plantings for Create TO’s proposed Leslie Lookout Park situated north of Tommy Thompson Park along the west end of Toronto’s Port Lands.
With anticipated and occurring climate change, our team referenced the forested plant community at Point Pelee National Park as well as Lake Ontario and Lake Erie shoreline plant communities. Having capped the previous site, imported soils were specified to mimic those found at Point Pelee.
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Natural Heritage Inventory -
Habitat Design and Restoration
Project Highlights
Leslie Lookout boasts the largest mini forest in Canada, and that was planted by Kayanase, a native plant nursery and contractor owned and operated by the Six Nations of the Grand. The design was based on the Miyawaki Method that was developed by Dr. Akira Miyawaki in Japan forty-five years ago. This predominantly deciduous and species-rich forest will serve to protect the park from adjacent industrial uses while providing habitat for myriad species along with other ecosystem services.
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Established a resilient tree community adapted for climate change
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Transformed an industrial waterfront into a vibrant green space
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Installed Canada’s largest Mini Forest, with almost 5000 plants
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Partnered with Kayanase to source locally adapted plant material
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Created critical habitat in a key migration stopover
Our Approach
Our approach to landscape design transforms underused spaces into vibrant green areas that support climate resilience and community value. Through high-density Mini Forests, locally sourced plants, and vital habitats for migratory species, we enhance biodiversity, sequester carbon, and integrate seamlessly with local ecosystems—building projects that are both environmentally responsible and community-focused.
