How Native Plants are Reclaiming their Place on the Trail
Sometimes, nature just needs a little breathing room. Then, it comes back in ways that are nothing short of remarkable.
Across the Trans Canada Trail, native plants are reclaiming spaces that were once overrun by invasive species or disturbed by human activity. With help from local volunteers, Trail groups and nature itself, areas that were once struggling are now bursting with life. Wildflowers, grasses, shrubs and trees that naturally belong there are thriving.
It’s a quiet success story, one that benefits biodiversity, wildlife and everyone who explores the Trail.
Photo: Rossburn Subdivision Trail | Erickson, MB — Aspasia Tahhan
Why native plants matter
Native plants aren’t just nice to look at — they’re essential for healthy ecosystems. They provide food and shelter for pollinators, birds and wildlife. They offer welcome shade to Trail users on hot days. They help stabilize soil, filter water and support biodiversity. And because they’ve evolved to flourish in local conditions, they help build resilient, self-sustaining landscapes.
Small efforts, big results
Across Canada, Trail groups and volunteers have been removing invasive plants, restoring disturbed areas and reintroducing native species along the Trail. Over time, the results speak for themselves:
- Wildflowers replacing weeds
- Birds, bees and butterflies returning
- Natural landscapes bouncing back to life
It’s proof that even small, local restoration projects can create space for nature to thrive.
Photo: Great Lakes Waterfront Trail | Toronto, ON — Monika Mistry
How Maple Ridge is increasing its urban tree canopy with microforests
In communities like Maple Ridge, British Columbia, native plants are turning bare soil and underused parkland into thriving, biodiverse spaces — fast.
The City of Maple Ridge is using the Miyawaki method to create microforests — clusters of native trees and shrubs that grow up to 10 times faster than traditional forests. Using this method, the microforests become self-sustaining after just three years. With help from Trans Canada Trail’s Planting for Tomorrow program, the community planted 900 native trees and shrubs, expanding their urban forest and boosting habitat for birds, pollinators and wildlife.
It’s proof that with the right approach — and a little help — nature can be restored.
Photo: Maple Ridge, BC — Chad Neufeld
See how Maple Ridge is reclaiming space for native plants and wildlife
Making space for nature
Protecting the landscapes we love doesn’t always mean grand, multi-year projects — sometimes, it starts with one patch of native plants, one tree, one small space given back to nature.
If you’ve ever thought about bringing native plants or trees to your own community, there’s an easy way to get started. Our free Tree Planting Resource Guide offers practical tips on how to choose the right plants, prepare your site, and give trees the best chance to grow strong — all with a focus on native species that support biodiversity and healthy ecosystems.
Every wildflower, native tree and space we restore fosters biodiversity and contributes to a healthier world for all — along the Trail and beyond.
Photo: Wakamow Valley | SK — Wakamow Valley Authority
