Designing Paradise Panel II: The Social and Cultural Histories of Our Watershed

Designing Paradise is a project to create an environmentally sustainable design for McMaster University’s West Campus, which is located in a significant watershed. Renowned landscape designer/artist Patricia Johanson will work in collaboration with campus researchers, community experts, students and members of the public to create an innovative new plan for this hitherto under-recognized campus and community resource.

McMaster University sits on the traditional Territories of the Mississauga and Haudenosaunee Nations, and within the lands protected by the “ Dish With One Spoon” wampum agreement. Most of West campus occupies a floodplain. Once a wetland habitat, West Campus now contains parking lots, baseball diamonds, a helicopter landing pad and outbuildings. The area’s unique natural gems such as Coldwater creek, trails, diverse plant and animal species and other natural features are currently hidden from view. The site speaks directly to our colonial history as part of a fertile valley that formerly provided sustenance for Indigenous peoples in the region. Grassroots initiatives are already underway as faculty and students learn about this history and envision new possibilities for this land.

Designing Paradise is a multi-faceted, interdisciplinary project requiring input from diverse knowledge perspectives and extensive community consultation. Working with Patricia Johanson, we aim to achieve a first class educational and research resource for the community and the university that will enhance a corridor connecting neighbouring green spaces. By collaborating with nature and respecting and working with the specifics of place, a sustainable and beautiful West campus is possible resulting in a Brighter World for decades to come.