The LaHave Coastal Forest is healing after centuries of heavy use.

From 1930 to 1990, most farming stopped. Former fields began to grow back. Years of grazing had removed native plants and seeds. Spruce, fir, and other short-lived conifers spread across the land. Read more about borealisation and deborealisation.

In its natural state, this forest would have both hardwoods and softwoods. Without seeds, recovery is slow.

We plant the native species that once grew here before colonisation. This helps restore a layered canopy.

In a healthy mixed forest, tall hardwoods grow above shorter conifers. The upper canopy shades and cools the forest. Layers of trees create many habitats, from sunny treetops to shaded understories. Each layer is important for wildlife and a thriving forest.

A multi-story forest is more resistant to wildfire and stores more carbon, helping to fight climate change.