A Memory Forest planned for Durham College’s Whitby campus will turn an underused grass berm into a dementia-inclusive forest and outdoor community space.
The first ceremonial tree for the Durham College Memory Forest was planted Wednesday. The project brings together Trees for Life, the Alzheimer Society of Ontario and Durham College, with support from the Barrett Family Foundation.
Design focuses on accessibility and dementia inclusion
Plans call for native trees, accessible pathways, high-contrast wayfinding, tactile features, sensory plantings and gathering areas. The partners describe the project as a restorative outdoor setting for people living with dementia, caregivers, students and members of the wider community.
Features are being designed to make the site easier to navigate and more engaging for people with different sensory and cognitive needs. The space is also intended to offer respite for caregivers and practical learning opportunities for Durham College students.
Programming expected to begin with development
Durham College will lead the design of nature-based programming connected with the forest. Development of the site is expected to begin next year, although a detailed construction schedule and opening date have not been announced.
The project combines reforestation with therapeutic outdoor programming rather than creating only a conventional landscaped area. Using native trees can also improve local habitat and reduce the amount of intensively maintained turfgrass on the campus.
The ceremonial planting marks the beginning of the initiative, not completion of the public space. Final access arrangements, program schedules and other operational details are expected as planning advances.
