“My roots have nurtured the land since the glaciers receded. Where I settle, I bring others with me. I make the soil fruitful for crops to grow. Many people have fed themselves from the richness of my soil. Here are some ways my efforts have been exploited. “

Land use as agriculture, fishing, and exploitation of natural resources

“Hidden beneath the earth are our complex networks of roots and mushrooms. For us, these roads are naturally built. I watched people do the same…this is the story of movement.”

Land use as transportation and digging in the earth

“Amid the gentle rustle of my leaves, people have not only found shelter but have crafted homes within Etobicoke. “

Land use as home-making and community

“Amidst my branches, I vibrate with the echoes of laughter that change the lands. Community gatherings bring warmth and the pulse of life to Etobicoke. We, the Alders, have borne witness to Etobicoke's industrial land changes. “

Land use as industry and economic change 

“Among the trees, we learn early to work as part of a larger whole. Others grew around me of different ages, different types. We were part of a community. Over time, I saw people build the same. For each other's sake, they built systems that helped everyone remain safe and blossom. “

Land use as building and maintaining community  

“Something horrible happened 70 years ago. It rained more than usual, the winds picked up to a blistering speed, and the rivers began to rise. A storm the likes of which I had never seen and never will again was about to happen. They called this Hurricane Hazel.”

Land use after disasters and reconnecting with the land 

“We Alders are resilient, that is why Etobicoke is named after us. Although we only live for 200 years, we have seen much. Our watchful eyes pass on to you. It is now your turn to care for this land.”

Land use of the future and our role moving forward