Durham College, partners developing “Memory Forest” at Whitby campus; work expected into 2027

Durham College, Trees for Life and the Alzheimer Society of Ontario are working on a “Memory Forest” project at Durham College’s Whitby campus, with support from the Barrett Family Foundation. The college says development of the outdoor space is expected to continue into 2027.

The project is planned as an accessible green space for people living with dementia, their caregivers and other community members, according to Durham College’s announcement. The site is on the Whitby campus grounds at 1610 Champlain Ave.

A ceremony was held at the site on Sept. 16 to mark the start of the project with the planting of a single tree, the college said. It added that a section of the campus grounds will be developed over the coming months.

Plans for the space include native tree planting, accessible pathways, high-contrast wayfinding, tactile features, sensory plantings and gathering areas, according to the college.

Durham College said Trees for Life will contribute knowledge of native tree planting and urban greening as the site is developed, while the Alzheimer Society of Ontario will provide expertise related to dementia inclusion.

The project will involve Durham College students in the care and development of the site. Durham College will lead the design of nature-based programming, and students can take part in stewardship activities at the site.

In a statement included with the announcement, Durham College president Dr. Elaine Popp said the college is working with Trees for Life and the Alzheimer Society of Ontario on the project and plans to provide “a space that is welcoming to people living with dementia and their caregivers.”

Durham College posted details about the partnership on Sept. 22.