Action Chelsea for the Respect of the Environment (ACRE)
ACRE works to protect the environment and ecological integrity of the Municipality of Chelsea and the ecological corridors identified by Gatineau Park, Quebec, located in the five municipalities surrounding the park. We protect natural areas by acquiring properties and manage them for the long term, with the aim of preserving natural areas, protecting ecosystems and the environment, and promoting healthy outdoor living in the community and surrounding area. Second, we encourage the understanding of the significance of environmental protection and maintaining the ecological integrity of lands and their importance in improving the quality of life in the community and surrounding areas. Third, we advise municipalities and the public on environmental and conservation sustainability. Finally, we promote public education, awareness and events related to conservation and environmental protection.
Company History
ACRE was created following Dr. Nicole Bruinsma’s screening of the film Exposure in the Spring of 1998, which led to a successful campaign for the introduction of a pesticide by-law in Chelsea. ACRE’s biggest past projects included Nature Chelsea, Arora, H2O Chelsea, and many other community awareness events. The Nature Chelsea Project envisioned a system of conserved natural areas, consisting of core habitat areas (terrestrial and aquatic) and corridors that connected the Gatineau River to Gatineau Park, that together comprised an ecological network capable of providing ecological goods and services and supporting rare species, and that was supported by Chelsea residents as a valued asset. The Arora Project involved the re-naturalization of a riparian area damaged by commercial activities on the west bank of the Gatineau River. The goal of the H2O Project was was to develop a better understanding of ground and surface water resources in Chelsea that would inform municipal planning and management decisions. Several years ago ACRE considerably expanded its scope of work and started acquiring properties that would be protected in perpetuity.
Company Facts
As a land trust, ACRE is managing 10 properties with the total area of 354 acres in the Municipalities of Chelsea, Pontiac, and La Pêche.
