The project revolves around the construction of two retention basins with a total capacity of over 34,000 m³, designed to manage stormwater coming from surrounding residences, while preserving local ecosystems and reducing negative environmental impacts.
Eco-responsible stormwater management
The initial objective of this project was to effectively manage stormwater upstream, while minimizing erosion of Moore Creek through controlled release flows. The aim is to reduce the risk of flooding in urbanized areas and preserve natural infrastructure assets. Thanks to the retention basins, runoff water is retained, filtered naturally by the vegetation planted around the basins, and gradually reintegrated into the natural hydrological system, thus limiting erosion and environmental damage.
Preservation and restoration of biodiversity
To avoid the massive displacement of soil containing fragments of invasive plant species (buckthorn, purple loosestrife, etc.), an alternative solution was considered, involving the addition of a shrub mound between the two basins. This choice not only allowed for reducing the cost and impact of transporting materials, but also for transforming an area of low ecological value into a diversified ecological corridor. The planting of over 641 trees and shrubs, and the creation of habitats for birds, bats and pollinators demonstrate the project’s strong commitment to preserving local biodiversity and enhancing ecosystems.
A public space in tune with citizens’ needs
In addition to its ecological role, the project meets the needs of citizens by creating a natural, accessible space in a dense urban environment. Paths and multifunctional trails have been laid out around the ponds, enabling residents, particularly the elderly and families, to enjoy a peaceful space in contact with nature. Interpretation panels have been installed along the trails to raise public awareness of the importance of biodiversity and invasive species.
Reduced environmental footprint and costs
The choice to reuse over 38,000 m3 of excess soil has generated significant savings equivalent to approximately 4,500 truck loads, while reducing CO₂ emissions associated with the transportation of materials. In addition, the reduction in water flows discharged to Moore Creek helps prevent erosion in the long term, which will reduce future maintenance costs. This project is a model of durability, thanks to its judicious use of resources and reduced carbon footprint.
A model of durability for future generations
The retention basins in Gatineau’s Le Plateau sector embody an innovative approach to durability. They transform a formerly vacant lot into a multifunctional ecological space, demonstrating how engineering and ecology can combine to create solutions that benefit nature and communities. By incorporating simple maintenance measures and protective structures against invasive species, this project ensures the long-term viability of the space, guaranteeing that it remains a sanctuary for wildlife and a place of well-being for citizens.
In short, this naturalized retention basin project in Gatineau represents an exemplary balance between urban development and environmental protection. It offers residents an enriching and resilient living space while preserving local ecosystems, proving that urban infrastructures can be vectors of sustainable development and quality of life for present and future generations.