Located in the northeastern corner of the Montreal Botanical Garden, the pond at the Frédéric Back Tree Pavilion required rehabilitation and restoration to protect and enhance its biodiversity. Invasive plants had altered the nature of this urban water body and impacted the surrounding environment.
This new phytotechnology and hydrogeology station highlights the power plants have to solve varying environmental challenges. During rehabilitation, the pond was enlarged and deepened to provide a larger volume of fresh water. Its 2-meter depth reduces algae proliferation and the growth of invasive plants. The fresher, more temperate water supports greater biodiversity through native water plants, fish and tortoises, while a gravel beach provides areas for ducks, geese and herons.
A 400-meter stream and a waterfall were added to increase water circulation and oxygenation. Riparian buffer strips filter nutrients from runoff and reduce erosion. In operation from May to November, a waterfall on the northern side of the pond plays both an aesthetic and functional role. While the waterfall oxygenates the water; water from the waterfall also flows through sand trays that filter (geochemical filter) soluble phosphorus.
Inspired by natural water bodies, these ecological techniques demonstrate the sustainability potential of water bodies in urban environments and their significant contributions to biodiversity.
Services
Environmental, Hydrology, Structural, Civil