Creating a forest: A Climate Crew episode

How does a forest grow? Learn with Parks Canada’s Climate Crew!

Climate Crew is an engaging digital series from Parks Canada that showcases real-life climate action across the country. Aimed at school-aged learners and curious minds of all ages, the series follows Parks Canada team members as they investigate the impacts of climate change and work on natural solutions to help ecosystems adapt — from glaciers to grasslands, kelp forests to reforested woodlands.

In the episode Creating a Forest, Climate Crew highlights how forest restoration efforts in Rouge National Urban Park are helping to expand and reconnect native habitats. Follow the full process from selecting a site and collecting seeds to growing them at the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority nursery and preparing the land for planting with support from 10,000 Trees volunteers.

The episode spotlights key native “anchor” species, like trembling aspen, white pine and sugar maple. It explains how these trees play both cultural and ecological roles that support climate resilience and biodiversity. Restoration work in the Rouge is also providing nature-based solutions for local farmers, helping to reduce flooding risks and improve drainage in nearby agricultural areas. The episode also explores how reconnecting natural corridors, such as the Oak Ridges Moraine, helps species move and adapt in response to shifting climate conditions and surrounding urbanization.

The story builds toward a public planting event, where Elder Tom Cowie delivers a land blessing and shares reflections on the cultural importance of native tree species and Indigenous stewardship practices. His insights reinforce the need for collaborative approaches with First Nations partners to restore balance to ecosystems.

Available in English and French, Creating a Forest is a hopeful, hands-on look at climate adaptation in action — and a reminder that the future of our forests depends on the choices we make today.

Watch the episode on Youtube