Monsieur Maka Kotto
Ministre de la Culture et des Communications
[email protected]
Dear Monsieur Kotto:
At the invitation of local citizens I recently visited the remnant of the gardens originally associated with the home of the famous 19th century photographer, William Notman. His home is a designated heritage site in the Ville Marie Borough of Montreal, but the nearby garden is in private ownership.
Some local residents fear this neighborhood green space may be lost to a condo development. Since I am an expert in the ecology and evolution of trees, the residents asked me to evaluate the large, old trees that dominate the site.
I visited the site last week and was greatly impressed. Majestic silver maple and Kentucky coffee trees form a high, cathedral like canopy over the property. The largest trees are in good health, and the unusual Kentucky coffee trees have some heritage value in their own right. This species is rare in Quebec, but characteristic of late 19th century plantings in this sector of Montreal. If it is possible for the government to acquire this land for public use, the site could be developed into an exceptionally nice neighborhood park. I encourage you to work with local citizens to acquire and develop this site as an urban green space for the enjoyment of citizens and visitors.
With respect and appreciation for your efforts as Minister of Culture and Communications,
I am sincerely yours,
Martin J. Lechowicz
Professor of Biology and Lauréat Michel Jurdant, 2006
Montréal, le 22 Juin 2013
Ministre de la Culture et des Communications
[email protected]
Dear Monsieur Kotto:
At the invitation of local citizens I recently visited the remnant of the gardens originally associated with the home of the famous 19th century photographer, William Notman. His home is a designated heritage site in the Ville Marie Borough of Montreal, but the nearby garden is in private ownership.
Some local residents fear this neighborhood green space may be lost to a condo development. Since I am an expert in the ecology and evolution of trees, the residents asked me to evaluate the large, old trees that dominate the site.
I visited the site last week and was greatly impressed. Majestic silver maple and Kentucky coffee trees form a high, cathedral like canopy over the property. The largest trees are in good health, and the unusual Kentucky coffee trees have some heritage value in their own right. This species is rare in Quebec, but characteristic of late 19th century plantings in this sector of Montreal. If it is possible for the government to acquire this land for public use, the site could be developed into an exceptionally nice neighborhood park. I encourage you to work with local citizens to acquire and develop this site as an urban green space for the enjoyment of citizens and visitors.
With respect and appreciation for your efforts as Minister of Culture and Communications,
I am sincerely yours,
Martin J. Lechowicz
Professor of Biology and Lauréat Michel Jurdant, 2006
Montréal, le 22 Juin 2013