Welcome to the Bois-des-Esprits Healing Reconciliation Forest Education Node
This is an evolving project of Save Our Seine River Environment Inc.: Urban Restoration and Enhancement Initiative (URE).
This site is part of a national network of Healing Reconciliation Forests, created to foster truth-telling, relationship-building, and ecological healing.
Inspired by the words of environmentalist David Suzuki:
“Reconciliation is about restoring respectful relationships — with each other and with the land.”
Here, you are invited to:
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Reflect on the impacts of colonization
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Learn from Indigenous knowledge and relationships to land
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Learn about Métis history
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Join in efforts to walk together toward healing and sustainability
This is a space for education, ceremony, and community connection.
The National Initiative
This local project is part of a growing national movement. Learn more here:
A PLACE WITH HISTORY AND SPIRIT
This was once the site of the beloved Save Our Seine mascot, Woody Mihtek — a whimsical, carved cottonwood tree figure that became a symbol of local environmental stewardship. Woody is now located at the Le Musée de Saint-Boniface Museum
Woody’s spirit of protection, education, and connection with nature continues to guide the evolution of this place as a Healing Reconciliation Forest.
Project Partners and Acknowledgements
This education node was made possible with SOS through the partnership and guidance of
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Manitoba Métis Federation
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Louis Riel School Division
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City of Winnipeg
The forest design was created by ft3 Architecture Landscape Interior Design, incorporating community and partner input.
Funding Support
Funding Support
The project was funded through:
Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation - Conservation Trust Grant
Province of Manitoba - From the Ground Up -Safe Healthy Communities for All
City of Winnipeg