Winnipeg, MB – In line with its corporate responsibility commitment to building sustainably, Qualico Communities Winnipeg is showcasing thoughtful and responsible development practices in Phase 5 of Taylor Farm. This phase — involving 73 single-family lots — is not only a milestone in residential development but also a model for environmental stewardship through sustainable land use.

Phase 5 is home to a rare and mature basswood forest, complemented by 200-year-old oak trees and native plant species. Recognizing the ecological value of this area, Qualico Communities took deliberate steps to protect nature’s beauty while developing the land for future homeowners. In collaboration with arborists, the team adjusted street layouts to preserve the oldest oak specimens and designed meandering pathways to avoid disrupting this irreplaceable ecosystem.

“When it came to planning Phase 5, we didn’t focus solely on the residential lots — our priority was embedding the uniqueness of this land, its forests, and its natural biodiversity into the community design,” said Tara Reid, Manager, Sales & Marketing, Qualico Communities Winnipeg. “Protecting the basswood forest and these 200-year-old oaks was not just a decision; it was a commitment to creating something lasting and beautiful, both for existing nature and for future homeowners.”

The commitment to sustainability goes further than preserving the existing forest and native plants. Trees that were removed for road installations were carefully limbed and milled for repurposed use. Through partnerships with local craftspeople, these harvested trees will have a second life as mantels, benches, and park features. This initiative highlights Qualico Communities’ approach to sustainable resource use in all its communities.

Additionally, Qualico Communities salvaged native ferns from the basswood forest and replanted them in communal spaces to enrich the roundabout, entrances, and public reserves. Other materials, such as topsoil and boulders, have been repurposed from past jobsites, further showcasing a focus on waste reduction and resource maximization.

With road paving completed, Phase 5 is set to deliver residential lots, including some that provide frontage along the river and untouched forested areas. Through mindful planning and sustainable practices, Qualico Communities Winnipeg is creating a harmonious balance between development and nature.

“Every decision we made was aligned with our corporate responsibility focus on building sustainably,” Tara said. “Phase 5 of Taylor Farm stands as proof of our promise to preserve the environments we develop in and contribute positively to the communities we serve.”

As the journey towards completion continues, Phase 5 of Taylor Farm promises to be a shining beacon of sustainable development, bringing homebuilding into harmony with the natural landscape.