HomeThe National Capital Greenbelt consists of 20,000 hectares of green space, including farms, forests and wetlands. It is a well-recognized landmark of the Capital, managed by the NCC in accordance with the 1996 Greenbelt Master Plan.
Yesterday
The creation of a “rural belt” or “green belt” was one of many sweeping proposals in the 1950 Plan for the National Capital commissioned by the federal government. It was intended to limit urban growth around Ottawa, protect the scenic countryside and provide a home for large institutions. The majority of its lands were acquired between 1958 and 1966, although acquisitions continue to this day.
Today
The Greenbelt features a mix of farms, wetlands and forests that offers a range of outdoor recreation, learning opportunities and provides a unique rural setting for the Capital. In addition, federal and major research institutions that need open spaces to operate have been located in the Greenbelt.
The value of a greenbelt for the large urban area has long been appreciated in Europe; recently the Ontario government proposed a new Greenbelt to protect environmentally sensitive and agricultural lands in the large urban area around Toronto known as the Golden Horseshoe.
Tomorrow
The Greenbelt will be a place where Canadians can experience their rural roots and natural heritage and where sustainable farming and forestry can be practised. Using the 1996 Greenbelt Master Plan as a guide, the NCC will protect the Greenbelt and its signifiicant natural areas for future generations.
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