Macphail Woods Ecological Forestry Project

Macphail Woods Ecological Forestry Project is located in Orwell, Prince Edward Island, and is a non-profit, charitable initiative of the Environmental Coalition of Prince Edward Island. It combines protection of the natural areas with wildlife enhancement, forest stewardship, watershed protection, environmental education and ecological research.

The project had humble beginnings in September of 1991 with a wildlife garden and native plant nursery. It now offers over 20 free workshops each year, Summer Nature Camps, in-depth courses through our School of Woodland Ecology, hosts a four-acre native plant nursery, walking trails, PEI’s most comprehensive native botanical garden and stewards over 2000 acres of public land for the provincial government of PEI.

“In times like these we need to take every opportunity for celebrations. One thing that is brightening my smile these days is a very special birthday – the Macphail Woods Ecological Forestry Project turns 30 this year. It is actually quite hard for me to believe, since there were no grand expectations when it started in 1991, no real plan for longevity. I was just desperate to find a way to make changes in forest practices without having to debate foresters in rooms. It turns out to be the best decision I’ve ever made.

From very humble beginnings, and assisted by incredible staff, we have helped people realize that there is true value in looking after woodlands and promoting healthy forests. We have educated young Islanders and watched as they became foresters and biologists, and valued members of society. We have helped landowners increase the biodiversity and value of their woodlands. And we have grown and spread some of the rarest plants in the province. We have helped people learn to love owls and songbirds, to value native plants in landscaping, and to care about and be passionate towards the environment.

Are we done? Not by a longshot. Just look around at the continued clearcutting and conifer plantations and you’ll see we still have a long way to go. But we’re working on it. And I am convinced that as we all learn more and become more caring about forests, we will have an even bigger impact. This is a small island that can grow fantastic forests. We have come a long way, but with your help we will continue to have a bigger and bigger impact on creating diverse Acadian forests that are fantastic places for both wildlife and humans.”

Gary Schneider

Founder & Director of the Macphail Woods Ecological Forestry