Save Our Seine River Environment Inc. (S.O.S.) is proposing that the pristine riparian forest bordering the Seine River in St. Vital be preserved as a protected area. The forest east of the Seine River, south of Bishop Grandin and north of Warde Avenue, has been classified by the City of Winnipeg Seine River Report as Grade �A� habitat. We believe it should be preserved as a prime example of a prairie river-bottom forest. This forest is home to a large variety of wild life even though it is within the city limits and is easily accessible to almost a million people. Deer, rabbits, beavers, turtles, owls and blue herons are just some of the species regularly seen in this forest along the Seine River. Some of the biggest and most impressive trees in Manitoba as well as numerous types of plant species can be found here as well. We are aware that a large residential development is being planned to begin within a year, perhaps within months. Such a development would destroy a large portion of this forest and irrevocably degrade the whole area. It is imperative that this national treasure be preserved for future generations. The forest whispers with the ghosts of pioneers past and our First Nations people. The friendly forest provided them with its timber for fuel and shelter, its game for sustenance, and its sap for sugar. It has heard the beautiful rhythmic sound of michiff being spoken and the lively music of early settlers. Birch bark canoes have silently plied these waters as generation after generation have traveled its length and harvested its bounty. Such are the thoughts that may intrude as present day explorers wander the trails, paddle the river and commune with the spirits. There is magic in these woods, that is why we at S.O.S. call this place Bois des Esprits and that is why we pray that that it shall last for all time. Save Our Seine River Environment Inc. (from Bois des Esprits Park Plan, 2001) |
| The ongoing battle to save the Bois des Esprits and to stop the Southglen Bridge is a very compelling story. Want to find out how it all began? If so, check out "Bois des Esprits Chronology", one man's attempt to make sense of the Bois des Esprits/Southglen Bridge issue. "Chronology" provides archival and current news articles, SOS Web releases and things of interest. And its free! |
| Bois des Esprits/Southglen Bridge |