What is Naturalization?
Naturalization is the process by which land that was previously maintained through mechanical mowing is returned to a natural state, similar to surrounding naturally occurring ecosystems.
Many municipalities within Alberta are moving towards more naturalized landscapes to capitalize on the many ecosystem services provided by natural areas.
Boulevard Naturalization Pilot Program
Bee City
The City of Grande Prairie is proud to be protecting pollinators in our community as an official Bee City. Some of the work we are doing to protect and support the local pollinator populations includes:
- Eight pollinator gardens created in GP specifically to boost pollinators during times when other nectars and pollen sources are in short supply
- Ground cover in our community orchards planted to provide pollen when sources are in short supply
- Committed to an Edible Landscaping Policy 212 across the City to plant a specific portion of trees each year that produce edible crops. These trees produce flowers that feed pollinators. Since 2014, Parks Operations has planted hundreds of edible trees, including apple, pear, apricot, plum, and cherry trees
- Created a Bylaw that allows for naturalization of areas of land which to support local pollinators
- Significantly reduced the use of insecticides since 2015