City of Edmonton is Naturalizing Portions of Upper Windermere: What to Expect by Fall 2026

The City of Edmonton Naturalization Project is set to transform a section of Edmonton’s Upper Windermere community by Fall 2026. This initiative aims to restore natural habitats, improve stormwater management, and create inviting green spaces for residents and wildlife. If you live in the community, or are interested in urban environmental projects, understanding what this naturalization effort involves will help you appreciate the changes ahead and how they benefit the community.

An Upper Windermere pond to be naturalized by the City of Edmonton, Fall 2026

What is the Naturalization Project and How Does it Impact our Community?

The project focuses on naturalizing a portion of the Upper Windermere stormwater management ponds and surrounding green spaces. Naturalization means converting these areas from traditional, manicured landscapes into more natural ecosystems. This includes planting native trees, shrubs, and grasses, creating wetlands, and improving habitats for local wildlife.

The goal is to mimic natural processes that support biodiversity, improve water quality, and reduce flooding risks. Instead of concrete channels and mowed lawns, the area will feature diverse plant life and natural water flow patterns.

Why Naturalize?

Several reasons drive this project:

• Environmental benefits: Native plants support pollinators like bees and butterflies, provide food and shelter for birds, and improve soil health.

• Water management: Natural wetlands filter pollutants from stormwater and slow runoff, reducing erosion and flooding downstream.

• Community enjoyment: Green spaces with natural features offer peaceful places for walking, birdwatching, and learning about nature.

• Climate resilience: Healthy ecosystems can better withstand extreme weather events and help cool urban heat islands.

  
  

By restoring this area, Edmonton is investing in long-term environmental health and quality of life for residents.

What Changes Will Residents See?

The transformation will happen in phases, with visible changes emerging over the next few years. Here’s what to expect:

• Removal of non-native plants: Some existing trees and shrubs that do not support local wildlife will be removed.

• Planting native species: Hundreds of native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers will be planted. These species are adapted to Edmonton’s climate and soil.

• Wetland creation and enhancement: The pond area will be reshaped to create shallow wetlands and natural water channels.

• New walking paths and seating areas: Trails will be added or improved to encourage community access while protecting sensitive habitats.

• Educational signage: Signs will explain the natural features and benefits of the project to visitors.

  
  

Residents may notice construction equipment and temporary disruptions during planting seasons, but these will be managed carefully to minimize impact.

How Will the Project Improve Stormwater Management?

Stormwater ponds traditionally collect runoff from streets and roofs, holding it temporarily before releasing it into local waterways. The Windermere Naturalization Project will enhance this function by:

• Increasing water retention: Wetlands hold more water than standard ponds, reducing peak flows during heavy rain.

• Filtering pollutants: Plants and soil microbes naturally break down contaminants like oils, fertilizers, and sediments.

• Slowing water flow: Natural channels and vegetation slow runoff, preventing erosion and protecting downstream areas.

  
  

These improvements reduce the risk of flooding and improve the health of nearby rivers and creeks.

Benefits for Wildlife and Biodiversity

Naturalized areas provide critical habitat for many species. The naturalization of Upper Windermere will:

• Support pollinators by planting native wildflowers.

• Provide nesting sites for birds in native trees and shrubs.

• Create aquatic habitats for frogs, insects, and small fish in wetlands.

• Increase overall biodiversity in an urban setting.

  
  

This helps maintain a balanced ecosystem and offers residents opportunities to connect with nature close to home.

Residents of Upper Windermere can expect changes during Fall 2026.

How Can Residents Get Involved?

Community involvement is key to the project’s success. Residents can:

• Fill out the City of Edmonton survey

• Attend public information sessions to learn more and ask questions.

• Volunteer for planting days and habitat restoration activities.

• Provide feedback through the city’s engagement platform.

• Use the new green spaces responsibly by staying on trails and respecting wildlife.

Fill out the Naturalization Survey Now!

Getting involved helps build a stronger connection between people and their environment.

What to Expect by Fall 2026

By Fall 2026, the Naturalization Project will have:

• Established a thriving natural habitat with diverse native plants.

• Improved stormwater management infrastructure integrated with natural features.

• Created accessible green spaces for community recreation and education.

• Increased local biodiversity and environmental resilience.

  
  

The area will look and feel more like a natural wetland ecosystem than a traditional urban pond. This change will take time, but the benefits will grow each year.