Trois-Rivières (News release) -- The Fondation Trois-Rivières durable and Kruger Inc. announced a major agreement to acquire and permanently protect the Boisé des Estacades (Estacades Woodland). Under the agreement, both organizations will become co-owners of the site, with the support of the City of Trois-Rivières and Desjardins, to maintain public access and long-term conservation. As part of this landmark initiative, the site will be renamed as the Grand boisé Kruger (Kruger Woodland). The Fondation Trois-Rivières durable will oversee the conservation and stewardship of the natural area.

This partnership will protect a sweeping green space covering 3.2 million square feet (297,000 m²) and ensure it is preserved and enhanced responsibly, for the benefit of the community.

To mark this important milestone, a news conference was held today with Jean-François Aubin, Mayor of Trois-Rivières; Nicolas Pasian, General Manager, Fondation Trois-Rivières durable; Gene Kruger and Sarah Kruger, Co-Presidents of Kruger; Cassy Bernier, President, Caisse Desjardins de l'Est de Trois-Rivières, and representative of the Caisses Desjardins de la ville de Trois-Rivières; and Pierre Marceau, spokesperson for the citizens' committee advocating for the protection of the woods.

An iconic site in Trois-Rivières

Located on the banks of the Saint‑Maurice River, the Boisé des Estacades is a vital natural area in Trois-Rivières that is very popular with residents. Over time, it has established itself as a serene, biodiverse place connected with nature, where visitors can walk, jog, observe wildlife, and partake in outdoor activities year-round. The woods have also inspired a sustained community effort to protect them, reflecting the special place they hold in the hearts of local residents.

"For many years, our organization has aspired to protect the Boisé des Estacades and respond to a clear desire expressed by the citizens of Trois-Rivières. The fact that this woodland is now protected forever is a tremendous victory for nature, for the community, and for everyone who stood up for its preservation. This project demonstrates that when public and private partners work together, great things can be achieved for the common good. We are proud to have built these partnerships and to announce today that this exceptional natural area is now protected forever. These 30 hectares are in addition to the 300 hectares or so that we are already protecting in Trois-Rivières. It is a tangible result of a mission to which we have been deeply committed for the past 15 years, and we are not stopping here."
--Nicolas Pasian, General Manager, Fondation Trois-Rivières durable

"For more than 50 years, Kruger has been part of the Trois-Rivières community, and it is important for us to make a meaningful contribution to its quality of life. Protecting these woods means preserving a place that brings people together and ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy this natural heritage."
--Gene Kruger, Co-President, Kruger

"Today, we are writing a new chapter in the history of this exceptional place. Thanks to strong community engagement and the deep commitment of our partners, these woods will remain a protected and accessible natural space forever. When our children and grandchildren walk these trails in the decades ahead, they will be able to enjoy the same landscape and the same close connection with nature. This is the legacy we choose to safeguard and pass on."
--Jean-François Aubin, Mayor of Trois-Rivières

A collective effort

This agreement is the result of months of collaboration among partners to secure a lasting, community-focused future for the woods. Together, they share a commitment to:

• permanently protect the woods;
• maintain public access;
• ensure the responsible enhancement of the natural environment; and
• preserve the ecological richness of the site.

About the Fondation Trois-Rivières durable

Founded in 2011, Fondation Trois-Rivières durable is dedicated to protecting and showcasing natural areas in Trois-Rivières. The Foundation also supports organizations in their sustainable development efforts, helping them implement responsible practices and advance their environmental commitments. Today, it protects nearly 300 hectares of land throughout the city and carries out environmental awareness, education, and conservation initiatives.

About Kruger

Founded in Montréal in 1904, Kruger Inc. is a major provider of tissue products, 100% recycled containerboard, corrugated packaging, pulp and paper products, and renewable energy. The Company is also a leader in paper and paperboard recycling in North America. A privately held family company, Kruger Inc. has 6,000 employees and its facilities are located in Québec, Ontario, British Columbia and Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as in the states of Tennessee, Maine, New York, Virginia, Kentucky and Rhode Island. www.kruger.com