Preparatory Study for the Rehabilitation of the Shorelines of Parc-nature de l’Île-de-la-Visitation

Following a characterization conducted in 2021, the shorelines of Parc-nature de l’Île-de-la-Visitation were identified as a priority for rehabilitation. Although the erosion does not currently pose an immediate threat to the safety of infrastructure or park users, it compromises the park’s integrity, its trails and facilities, local wildlife and vegetation, as well as its visual appeal. This urban park is highly appreciated by the public for obvious reasons, and shoreline and park degradation must be addressed as quickly as possible.

This mandate was initiated by the City of Montréal’s Department of the Service des grands parcs, du Mont-Royal et des sports (SGPMRS) with the goal of undertaking the rehabilitation of approximately 1.5 km of shoreline in the area in the near future. This innovative project aims to restore 15 distinct degraded shoreline segments that were identified as priorities based on various criteria.

Our integrated and sustainable approach complies with the strict standards of both the ministère de l’Environnement, de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs (MELCCFP) and the City of Montréal. The selected methodology is designed to promote public access to the shoreline and water, while also enhancing habitat quality for aquatic, terrestrial, and avian wildlife by improving shoreline stabilization and revegetation.

Thanks to the combined expertise of our professionals in hydrogeomorphology, hydrology, hydraulics, and biology, we were able to address the various issues related to shoreline erosion and the surrounding natural environment in an innovative and efficient way.

Our team proposed a rehabilitation plan using phytotechnology concepts, relying exclusively on plant-based and bioengineering techniques. This approach not only protects the shorelines but also improves aesthetics and surrounding natural habitats.

Our designs also incorporate natural wildlife shelters, built from large woody debris. These structures serve a dual purpose: they provide habitat for fish and turtles, among others, and act as physical barriers to reduce erosion caused by waves and ice movement.

This exemplary project reflects our commitment to a healthy and accessible environment for all residents of Greater Montreal.

PHASE 1: Review of Existing Data and Bathymetric Survey

• Data collection (physical and biological environments);

• Analysis of geotechnical data;

• Environmental characterization in biology and ecology;

• Preparation of a study report on the physical and biological environments to guide shoreline rehabilitation;

• Bathymetric survey to gather data required for habitat characterization and to create the mesh needed for hydraulic modeling.

• Field surveys supporting analysis of the physical environment (hydrology, hydraulics, and hydrogeomorphology);

• Hydrological analysis of surface runoff and flow in the main channel;

• Hydraulic and hydrodynamic process analysis and their impact on land erosion;

• Hydrogeomorphological analysis to diagnose active processes and describe shoreline evolution (migration rate);

• Characterization and delineation of aquatic and terrestrial habitats;

• Shoreline diagnostics related to the causes of observed erosion.

• Innovative preliminary shoreline rehabilitation concepts for each homogeneous segment, including typical cross-sections, recommendations, and associated issues, based on hydraulic, hydrogeomorphological, and biological design criteria;

• Recommendations for enhancement and creation of habitat for aquatic and terrestrial wildlife.