Trent University provides a significant example of an important educational institution examining leading-edge conservation techniques to secure land that supports the appreciation of nature, biodiversity, and enhanced recreational opportunities. SvN collaborated with North-South Environmental to develop a comprehensive and user-friendly framework expressed through a highly graphic document supporting future planning and fundraising opportunities. Our collaboration with Nbisiing Consulting was critical when working with Indigenous rightsholders to ensure an inclusive planning process.

The Trent University Symons Campus is located in Peterborough, a city-region facing numerous growth-related pressures. The resulting Plan incorporated solutions addressing both campus and community needs. It also committed to preserving 60% (or 351 hectares) of the Symons Campus lands as a nature area and green space, thereby becoming an active caretaker for a valuable ecosystem. The demands on the Trent Nature Areas are ever-increasing--from passive to active recreation, restoration and invasive species management, outdoor learning and research, and regenerative farming.

The Trent Lands and Nature Areas Plan is a high-level framework that articulates a vision for growth rooted in community and a deep understanding of the land while promoting an inspiring and inclusive environment that provides hands-on learning, discovery, and innovation opportunities. It guides the University towards stewarding, developing and preserving its lands in ways that support the long-term resilience of Trent and its communities. The Plan integrates the latest thinking on nature-inclusive design, climate-positive development, and regenerative agriculture, developed in collaboration with North-South Environmental. The document also instills Anishinaabeg principles, Indigenous spaces, and placemaking techniques developed in partnership with the Michi Saagiig First Nations, taking active steps towards reconciliation.

The Trent Lands and Nature Areas Plan reflects a process driven by extensive public engagement and communication spanning all project phases. The University's diverse communities were captured through a holistic engagement process that included students, staff, faculty, stakeholders, Michi Saagiig First Nations, Indigenous peoples, approval authorities and members of the wider community.

SvN's priority was to convene various partners, stakeholders, First Nations and Indigenous groups to establish a shared vision and lead to a community-endorsed framework plan. The result will enable the University's economic resilience, enhance biodiversity on campus, and enrich Trent's academic and non-academic campus and community offerings.

Click here to visit the Trent Lands website