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ÎLES-DE-BOUCHERVILLE PARC NATIONAL DES - Bibliothèque de l'Assemblée nationale
VISITOR’S GUIDE - 2015
  PARC NATIONAL DES
  ÎLES-DE-BOUCHERVILLE

                         Just a hop and a skip away from downtown montreal, right in the
                         middle of the mighty saint-lawrence river, five islands make up
                         the parc national des Îles-de-boucherville, a highly representative
                         sample of the saint-lawrence lowlands’ natural heritage. this park
                         offers green spaces, channels and thoroughfares rich in natural life,
                         and trails adjoining the shores. hikers, picnickers, cyclists, canoeists
                         and kayakers come over to breathe pure, fresh air and get away from
                         the city’s hustle and bustle. others travel in time while discovering
                         the first nations that once inhabited these islands. in winter, Île
                         sainte-marguerite offers hikers, snowshoers and cross-country skiers
                         wonderful snowy scenery, and an atmosphere beyond just peaceful,
                         perfect for observing wildlife and indicators of its presence.

neW
                                               grosbois CampgrounD
                                              in the summer of 2015, a partially serviced
                                              campground will be opened on Île grosbois near the
                                              relais grosbois entrance station. the campground
                                              will be accessible only on foot, by small watercraft
                                              or via bicycle. it will provide 21 huttopia tent sites
                                              and 54 campsites without individual services.
                                              all will be located in a very special part of the
                                              park where terrestrial compartments and aquatic
                                              environments meet and mix wonderfully. Centralized
                                              services available at the campground are as
                                              follows: convenience store, rest rooms, showers,
                                              nature boutique, nautical equipment rental,
                                              children’s playground, and amphitheatre.
                                              CheCk OuT Our weB SITe
                                              TO FInd OuT The OpenIng dATe.
A few reminders for a better
                                                                                                                  outdoor experience

                                                                                                                  Before you leave home
                                                                                                                  • Plan on going with at least one other person.
                                                                                                                  • Check the weather report.
                                                                                                                  • Pack water and food, even if the activity is only
                                                                                                                    for a few hours.
                                                                                                                  • See that you have appropriate footwear.
                                                                                                                  • Pack extra clothing (raincoat, warmer clothes,
                                                                                                                    etc.).

play it safe
                                                                                                                  • Make sure that the equipment you will be using
                                                          Reminder
                                                                                                                    during the activity is in good condition.
                                                          Sépaq would like to remind you that some of the         • Bring a whistle, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, etc.
                                                          activities offered in the network require that you
                                                                                                                  • Let somebody know the exact location of your
                                                          be physically fit and have specific skills as well        destination and the date you plan to return home,
                                                          as specialized equipment. There are a number of
Your safety:                                                                                                        with instructions to contact emergency services
                                                          organizations that can help you plan your activities      (911) if you do not return.
Your responsibility                                       safely. Do not hesitate to contact them.                • Inform the persons accompanying you of the
Outdoor activities may entail certain risks. You                                                                    inherent risks of the chosen activity.
must always make sure that you have the                   AirMédic
                                                          airmedic.net | 1-877-999-3322
ability and special skills required for your
                                                          Aventure Écotourisme Québec
                                                                                                                  Once you are on site
chosen activity. It is very important to know
                                                          aventure-ecotourisme.qc.ca | 1-866-278-5923             • Do not count on your cell phone: in most areas,
your physical ability and limits.
                                                          Bureau de la sécurité nautique                            you will be unable to get a signal.
For several years now, Sépaq has ensured the              tc.gc.ca | 1-800-267-6687                               • Obtain a map of the area.
greatest possible access to Québec’s most beautiful
                                                          Camping Québec                                          • Check how much time it will take to complete your
natural treasures. An essential part of this mission
                                                          campingquebec.com | 1-800-363-0457                        activity.
is our concern for visitor safety.
                                                          Fédération québécoise des chasseurs                     • Follow the instructions that apply to each activity.
Sépaq hopes that your outdoor experience                  et pêcheurs                                             • Obey signs and notices, including bans on open
will be memorable and urges you to Play it                fedecp.qc.ca | 1-888-523-2863                             fires.
Safe!                                                     Fédération québécoise de la marche                      • Never leave children unsupervised.
All visitors remain responsible for their own safety,     fqmarche.qc.ca | 1-866-252-2065                         • Boil or treat (filter, chlorine or iodine) water from
with risk management being an integral part of the        Fédération québécoise de la montagne                      rivers and streams before drinking.
outdoor experience. Preparing yourself adequately         et de l’escalade                                        • When camping, pack your food in airtight
                                                          fqme.qc.ca | 1-866-204-3763
is the first step in the safe and enjoyable practice of                                                             containers and keep it out of reach of animals.
your favourite activities.                                Fédération québécoise du canot et du kayak              • Should you find that a piece of equipment or an
                                                          canot-kayak.qc.ca | 514-252-3001                          accessory is missing or defective, stop using it
We invite you to consult our safety guides for Sépaq
                                                          Ski de fond Québec                                        and inform the staff on site of the situation as
activities on our Web site sepaq.com/security.
                                                          skidefondquebec.ca | 450-744-0858                         soon as possible.
The costs and expenses incurred in
                                                          Sopfeu
conducting search and rescue operations are               sopfeu.qc.ca | 1-800-463-3389
the responsibility of the beneficiary. You can
                                                                                                                  When you get back
                                                          Vélo Québec                                             • Once you have completed your activity, make sure
obtain protection against these risks from an             velo.qc.ca | 1-800-567-8356
insurer.                                                                                                            that you report to our staff anything wrong or any
                                                                                                                    damage or problems you encountered.

sepaq.com/security                                            In case of emergency 911
                                                            Sûreté du Québec
                                                            310-4141 (general number) / *4141 (for cell phones)
                                                            Where cell phone networks are available.

2                                                          parcsquebec.com/ilesdeboucherville
MUST-DOS
 Nautical Trail
                                                                                                                       REGULATIONS
Guaranteed Total Change of Scenery...                                                                                               To contribute to improving the quality of
A Hop and A Skip Away from the City!                                                                                                the national park experience, an entry
In a canoe or sea kayak, explore the fascinating world of the                                                                       fee was established by the government.
Îles de Boucherville’s internal waterways. An 8-km marked                                                                           You must always carry your receipt or
nautical trail that takes on average three hours to complete                                                                        your annual card during your visit.
allows you to slowly groove among the various channels and
                                                                                                                                    To preserve the natural riches for future
make exceptional encounters! You can rent watercraft on site
                                                                                                                                    generations, it is prohibited to remove
or bring in your own nautical equipment.
                                                                                                                                    natural elements (animals, plants, dead
                                                                                                                                    wood, rocks, etc.).
 Cycling Trails                                                                                                                     Also, the flora is sensitive to being
                                                                                                                                    trampled. It is therefore mandatory to
A Bicycle Ride…
                                                                                                                                    stay on the hiking trails.
In the Middle of the Saint-Lawrence !
A 21-km cycling trail network allows bicyclists to discover the                                                                     Nature exhibits exemplary equilibrium,
park’s most attractive natural settings. Take advantage of the                                                                      and for this reason the feeding of
picnic grounds and the magnificent scenery while taking in                                                                          wildlife is prohibited. In this respect, it is
self-guided discovery activities. The terrain is relatively flat,                                                                   also prohibited to leave food or garbage
so it will fit the whole family’s needs.                                                                                            unsupervised. Keep them in your car.

And by the way, why not take one the three river shuttles from                                                                      Domestic animals are prohibited in
Montreal or the South Shore to access the park?                                                                                     Québec’s national parks. But guide dogs
                                                                                                                                    and service dogs accompanied by their
                                                                                                                                    foster families are admitted. However,
 Discovery Activity: Sunset Safari                                                                                                  these dogs must be easily identifiable,
Discover the park in another way !                                                                                                  wearing the Mira scarf or harness.
                                                                                                                                    Those in charge of the animal must carry
Take a vehicle ride to visit the park when
everything is quiet and peaceful. Or is         8$
                                                   / adult
                                                                                                                                    the foundation’s letter of accreditation.

it really? This 90-minute safari will lead    Taxes  and access
                                                                                                                                    It’s great to enjoy an authentic natural
                                              fees extra.
you into the “night life”of these islands’                                                                                          environment that is clean and healthy!
inhabitants. Check out the timetable on page 6.                                                                                     Carry out your garbage, leave it in the
                                                                                                                                    containers provided, and take home any
                                                                                                                                    harmful substances, such as soap, oil,
 Île-aux-Raisins Hiking Trail                                                                                                       combustibles or pesticides.
In the Wetland Kingdom !
This 3.4-km trail dotted with interpretation signs enables you
to appreciate the natural wealth of the flood plain. It starts
off close to the observation tower on Île de la Commune,
and the circuit lasts about 2 h 15 min. We wish you exciting
discoveries!

General Information
Discovery and Services Centre                                 Cover Page:
Phone: 450-928-5088                                           Photography, Mathieu Dupuis                              This document is printed on 100% recycled paper made in
Fax: 450-928-8719                                                                                                      Quebec, containing 100% post-consumer fibers and no elemental
parc.boucherville@sepaq.com                                   Graphics: Cournoyer communication marketing              chlorine. Inks used in producing this paper contain vegetable oils.
www.parcsquebec.com/ilesdeboucherville                        Printing: Transcontinental
Administration                                                Photography:                                             Version française disponible
55, île Sainte-Marguerite, P.O. Box 310                       Jean-Francois Bergeron, Annick Boivin, Mathieu Dupuis,   Legal Deposit: 2015
Boucherville, Québec J4B 5J6                                  Marlène Greene, Sylvain Ménard and Claude Lafond         Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec
Phone: 450-928-5089

                                                                       PROTECT | dISCOVER                                                                                                3
Hiking trails
You can decide to share the cycling paths with
the bike riders, but for added safety and peace
of mind, opt instead for a rustic hiking trail.
Île Sainte- Marguerite offers you three choices
for your hiking pleasure: the Grand-Duc (1.5 km),
Petite-Rivière (2.5 km) and Grande-Rivière (4 km)
trails all leave from the Discovery and Services
Centre and allow you to explore the wilderness
while remaining close to the river and cutting
through woodlands here and there.
For a longer hike, try the Île-aux-Raisins trail
(3.5 km, departing from the observation tower                 Trail Name                Length and Duration      Difficulty Level                    Starting Location

on Île de la Commune). Located in a preservation                                        10 km (loop)
                                                              L’Île-Grosbois                                     Easy                                Île Grosbois
                                                                                        3 hr
area, this trail twists and turns through the rich,
                                                                                        7 km (loop)                                                  Discovery and
bountiful flood plain ecosystem. Bordering the                L’Île-Sainte-Marguerite                            Easy
                                                                                        2 hr                                                         Services Centre
Chenal du courant marsh area, this trail is just
                                                                                        5.6 km (loop)
right for watching birds and observing animals                L’Île-de-la-Commune                                Easy                                Île de la Commune
                                                                                        2 h 15 min
of all kinds!                                                                           4 km (loop)                                                  Discovery and
                                                              La Grande-Rivière                                  Easy
                                                                                        1 h 30 min                                                   Services Centre
                                                                                        5.5 km (loop)
                                                              L’Île-aux-Raisins                                  Easy                                Île de la Commune
                                                                                        2 h 15 min
                                                                                        2.5 km (loop)                                                Discovery and
                                                              La Petite-Rivière                                  Easy
                                                                                        45 min                                                       Services Centre
                                                                                        1.5 km (loop)                                                Discovery and
                                                              Le Grand-Duc                                       Easy
                                                                                        30 min                                                       Services Centre

On bicycle                                Saddle your bicycle and view the park
                                                                                        Nautical trail                        Come ride an adventurous wave!
                                          from our 21 km long cycling path. The                                               Go canoeing or kayaking amidst the
                                          course takes off from the Discovery and                                             dreamy charm of a waterway scenery.
                                          Services Centre and goes round all major                                            This trip on a marked 8-km nautical
                                          islands in the park close to the river.                                             trail that lasts on average 3 hours
                                          Relish in the waterway’s scenery and                                                allows you to slowly groove among the
                                          take advantage of the many stopovers                                                various channels and make exceptional
                                          to share a picnic with family and/or                                                encounters! Rent your craft on the spot
                                          friends!                                                                            or bring your own equipment.

                                                                                                              Aventure Écotourisme Québec certified outfitters, in collaboration
    AVENTURE ÉCOTOURISME QUÉBEC AT                                                                            with the Sépaq, offer you several stays and guided activities
    PARC NATIONAL DES ÎLES-DE-BOUCHERVILLE                                                                    specially designed for the discovery of exceptional natural
                                                                                                              spaces. Boost your sense of adventure in Québec!

                                                                                                              PLAN YOUR NEXT
                                                                                                              GUIDED OUTING WITH :

                                                                                                              ENVIRO KAYAK
                                                                                                              Sea kayaking
                                                                                                              450-403-0509
    Photo : Mathieu Dupuis                                                                                                                                    quebecadventure.ca

4                                                            parcsquebec.com/ilesdeboucherville
What to Do?
Picnic
Extend the fun at the park and enjoy the beautiful weather amidst
an exceptional haven right in the middle of the Saint-Lawrence
River. What a great setting in which to bring family and/or friends a
hop and a skip away from Montreal and share food, drink, sun and
fresh air. The three large picnic areas are perfect for welcoming a
large group of relatives or your office team. In addition, you will find
children’s playgrounds and comfort stations nearby.
Beach Volleyball
In the Grande-Rivière area, close to the rental centre, a beach
volleyball ground will delight sports aficionados. All necessary
equipment is at your disposal from mid-May to mid-October (certain
terms and conditions apply). Come and revel in the fun amidst a
wondrous atmosphere at the foot of century-old willows.

                                                                            “Discovering the Marsh”
                                                                                         Aquatic life fascinates and intrigues
                                                                                         you? While canoeing or kayaking along
                                                                                         the channels, meet with a remarkable
                                                                                         living environment at the very heart of
                                                                                         the St. Lawrence. The Rental Centre
                                                                                         will lend you this full-colour guide free
                                                                                         of charge upon your presenting a photo
                                                                                         identification card.

Île de la Commune Observation Tower                                         Sea Kayak at Sunset!
At over 15 m high, this tower is worth the detour! Enjoy a splendid         With a sea kayak specialist, discover the pleasure of kayaking in the Parc national des Îles-de-
view on the park’s most important marsh area and Île-aux-Raisins,           Boucherville in the evening. Exploration of the site, basic introduction and practical advice are
where fauna and flora add to the scenery.                                   slated as part of this activity. Every Thursday night in June, July and August.

Boucher-de-Grosbois Archæological Site                                      Private and group lessons also offered.
Travel in time and plunge back into the customs practised and               Available upon reservation. Individual or in small groups.
way of life led by the aboriginals who inhabited the territory more
than 2,000 years ago! Various facilities including the impressive
                                                                            To make reservations or inquire about rates,
aboriginal hut, interpretation signs and a brochure available on the
                                                                            call the Discovery and Services Centre at 450-928-5088.
site provide a host of information! As well, every summer weekend,
a park warden on hand will provide further details on your findings.
Consult the schedule on page 6.

                                                                      PROTECT | dISCOVER                                                                                    5
DISCOVERY ACTIVITIES                                                                                                                               Free for children (accompanied by an adult)

                    SPRING / April 21 to May 31                                                                          Participating is great! Reserving your spot in advance is even better!
                    Days                Time                        Activities                                            Rate                   Meeting
                    Samedi 2-3           9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.       Behold Migrating Ducks                                Adult : $11            Rental Centre
                    Dimanche
                                           2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.      In the Footprints of the White-Tailed Deer            Adult : $8             Discovery and Services Centre
                    Samedi 9-10                9 a.m. to 12 p.m.    Introduction to Bird-Watching                         Adult : $16.50         Discovery and Services Centre
                                               11 a.m. to 4 p.m.    Discovery Stand                                       Free                   Near the cable ferry descent
                                               9 a.m. to 12 p.m.    Rabascaw Ride in the Marsh                            Adult : $12            Rental Centre
    MAY

                                          2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.       In the Footprints of the White-Tailed Deer            Adult : $8             Discovery and Services Centre
                    Samedi 16-17                                    Birds Ahead! Festival NEW                                                    Stay abreast of our programming
                    23-30                   9 a.m. to 12 p.m.       Rabascaw Ride in the Marsh                            Adult : $12            Rental Centre
                                               11 a.m. to 3 p.m.    Discovery Stand                                       Free                   Near the cable ferry descent
                    24-31                      11 a.m. to 3 p.m.    Discovery Stand                                       Free                   Near the cable ferry descent
                                               11 a.m. to 3 p.m.    Animation at the Iroquoian Hut                        Free                   Boucher-de-Grosbois (Île Grosbois) Archæological Site

                    SUMMER / June 1 to August 31                                                                         Participating is great! Reserving your spot in advance is even better!
                    Days                Time                         Activities                                               Rate               Meeting
                    Saturday                    11 a.m. to 4 p.m.    Discovery Stand                                          Free               Near the cable ferry descent
                                                 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.    The River’s Far Side                                     Free               Inquire at the Discovery and Services Centre
                    Sunday                      11 a.m. to 4 p.m.    Discovery Stand                                          Free               Near the cable ferry descent
    JUNE

                                                11 a.m. to 4 p.m.    Animation at the Iroquoian Hut                           Free               Boucher-de-Grosbois (Île Grosbois) Archæological Site
                    Thursday             6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.      The Beaver at Sundown                                    Adult : $10        Rental Centre
                    Fishing Festival
                                                9 a.m. to 12 p.m.    Introduction to Sport Fishing                            Adult : $16.50     Discovery and Services Centre
                    June 6 and 7
                    Saturday                7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.      Explore the Marsh NEW                                    Adult : $10        Grosbois reception
                                                 8 p.m. to 9 p.m.    2 400 years of history! NEW                              Free               Boucher-de-Grosbois (Île Grosbois) Archæological Site
                    Sunday                       1 p.m. to 4 p.m.    Discovery Stand                                          Free               Near the cable ferry descent
                                          10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.      The Mysterious Investigations of Inspector Nature        Free               Discovery and Services Centre
                                                11 a.m. to 4 p.m.    Animation at the Iroquoian Hut                           Free               Boucher-de-Grosbois (Île Grosbois) Archæological Site
                    Monday                  1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.      Discovery Stand                                          Free               Near the cable ferry descent
    JULY - AUGUST

                    Tuesday                 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.      Sunset Safari                                            Adult : $8         Discovery and Services Centre
                                                 8 p.m. to 9 p.m.    A Few Acres of Park Land                                 Free               Grosbois Amphitheatre
                    Wednesday              9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.      Explore the Marsh NEW                                    Adult : $10        Grosbois reception
                                            1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.      Discovery Stand                                          Free               Near the cable ferry descent
                                                 8 p.m. to 9 p.m.    Keep your cool! NEW                                      Free               Grosbois Amphitheatre
                    Thursday                7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.      Sunset Safari                                            Adult : 8$         Discovery and Services Centre
                    Friday                      11 a.m. to 3 p.m.    Animation at the Iroquoian Hut                           Free               Boucher-de-Grosbois (Île Grosbois) Archæological Site
                                                 8 p.m. to 9 p.m.    Echoes in the Night!                                     Free               Grosbois Amphitheatre
                                         8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.      Spotlight on the stars                                   Free               Grosbois Amphitheatre

                    AuTUMN / September 1 to October 11	Participating is great! Reserving your spot in advance is even better!
                    Days                Time                         Activities                                               Rate               Meeting

                    Saturday
    SEPTEMBER

                    Sunday                      11 a.m. to 3 p.m.    Discovery Stand                                          Free               Near the cable ferry descent

                    Septembre 5                 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.    Quebec National Park Day                                                    See our complete program

                    Saturday – Sunday
    OCTOBER

                                        9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.      Owls, Where Are Yoooooooou?                              Free               Molson Area Parking
                    Until October 11

                                            2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.      In the Footprints of the White-Tailed Deer               Adult : $8         Discovery and Services Centre

                                                      From August 24 to September 6, only Saturday and Sunday activities will take place.
                                        To participate in these activities, please register either in person at the Discovery and Services Centre or by calling 450 928-5088.

6                                                                                     parcsquebec.com/ilesdeboucherville
SPECIAL DISCOVERY ACTIVITIES
 Birds Ahead! Festival                                                                          The Beaver at Sundown
On May 16 and 17, come take part in our lead edition of the Birds Ahead! Festival. During      This ingenious rodent, which makes its presence felt in our territory,
this weekend dedicated to ornithology, you can attend lectures, meet experienced park          has gone down in history on our islands! Take part in this excursion and
wardens, participate in bird identification sessions, meet various bird-enthusiast partners,   demystify this fascinating animal and its characteristic way of life. And who
ride a rabaskaw at sunset, and support the mature Iris team that will participate in the       knows, maybe you will get a chance to observe it in its natural habitat!
Québec Oiseaux Grand Défi! Stay abreast of our programming on our Web site.

 The Mysterious Investigations                                                                  Sunset Safari*
 of Inspector Nature                                                                           Take a vehicle ride to visit the park when everything seems quiet and peaceful.
                                                                                               Or is it really? This safari will lead you into the “night life” of these islands’
Guided by a very special inspector, discover what in the world could have                      inhabitants. Find out what the Virginia deer, American beaver, birds, raccoon and
happened to Mr. Vole. Who are the suspects? What clues to their mischief did                   other species are up to in the night!
they leave behind? After the activity, children can leave with their investigator
notebooks as souvenirs.

                                                                            PROTECT | dISCOVER                                                                                      7
GENERAL PARK MAP

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            Amphitheatre                                        Washroom                                                                                        132                                                                                                                 (Fed
            Washroom facility                                   Observation tower

            Grosbois Campground
            Semi-serviced camping                       Km      Length of trail sections
            RV
            RVCamping
               area Ground – Molson Area                        Trail direction
            Golf                                                Bike path
            Mooring area                                        Trail
            Discovery Kiosk                                     Marked water trail
            Boat and bike rental                                Boat shuttle
            Boat launch                                         Highway
            Lookout                                             Provincial road
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            To
            Food services                                       Main road                                                                                                                                                                        So
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            Archeological site                                                                                                                                                                                                                             l
                                                                National park boundary                                                                                                                                                                                          0          25

8                                                                                     parcsquebec.com/ilesdeboucherville
Île de
                                                                                                                   Montréal

                                                                                 Fleuve
                                                                              Saint-Laurent

                          Île Tourte
                           Blanche

                             2 ,1
                                                                   Île
                         Île aux                               Lafontaine                            Île
                           Raisins                                                                 Dufault
                                                  Île
                  2,
                     1

                                                  Montbrun
                                                                                    Île à Bleury

                                                                            0,4

                                                                                                        4,6
                                                         0,7

      Île de la
     Commune
                                                  e

                                                               0,6
                                              ass

       (5 km)
                                                                                    0,6
                                          La P

                                                                                                       Île
                                                                                                    Grosbois
                                                         0,2
                                                                      0,7
                                                                                                     (7 km)
                                        0,1

                                                      0,
                                                         3           grosbois CampgrounD

           1,7
                                                                         Grosbois             WatCh our Web site
                                                                      Visitors Centre          for the grosbois
eville )                                                                                         CampgrounD
     rf
wh a                                                                                            opening Date.

                                                                                  Boucherville

                                                                                                                         Cette carte intègre de l’information géographique de source gouvernementale.
                                                                                                                         Pour des besoins de représentation, certaines données ont subi des
                                                                                                                         transformations et des adaptations qui ont pu modifier la donnée originale.
                                                                                                                         Données originales utilisées                  Années
                                                                                                                         Banque de données Sépaq                        2015
                                                                                                                         Cartes topographiques
                                                                                                                         à l'échelle de 1/20 000                        2005
                                                                                                                         Source des données utilisées
50          500                 1 000                                                                                    Ministère de l’Énergie et des Ressources naturelles
                                   m                                                                                     © Gouvernement du Québec

                                                                                          prOTeCT | dISCOVer                                                                                            9
a ten-year assessment
our national parks are in gooD health!
the daily challenge for the managers who run a national park is to get the balance right
between public access and conservation. to accomplish this, parcs Québec developed
a forward-thinking program in 2003 to implement ongoing health check-ups for its
national parks – the ecological integrity monitoring program (eimp). the results of the
370 monitorings carried out over the last 10 years are encouraging: the overall level of
ecological integrity of the national parks has been maintained or improved throughout the
network, despite an increasing public access.
full details at parcsquebec.com/ecologicalintegrity
a few highlights of the parc national des Îles-de-boucherville:
The observed dekay’s brown snake population has expanded.
the change measured by this indicator suggests a significant improvement of its state
contributing to increasing the park’s ecological integrity level. the factors that could have
led to this recent escalation in Dekay’s brown snake numbers are unknown. however,
as part of recent surveys, our staff had developed a broader, deeper expertise of the
herpetofauna and the methodology to follow in capturing data.
The bats seem largely stricken by the white-nose syndrome (wnS)
(a generalized trend in north America).
the change measured by this indicator suggests a significant deterioration of its state
contributing to lowering the park’s ecological integrity level. the decrease in bats’
biodiversity index may find explanation in the spreading white-nose syndrome, a fungus
disease that has been decimating bat populations in eastern north america since 2006.
the adverse effects of this disease can be observed everywhere in the affected regions.

parCs QuébeC
Conservation blog - in frenCh only
Did you know that parcs Québec posts a weekly article on its blog about Québec national
park conservation initiatives and issues? to stay in the loop, sign up for our monthly
newsletter.
full details at parcsquebec.com/blogue

parCs QuébeC funD
GIVe… ANd NAture WILL GIVe bAcK
the parcs Québec fund is dedicated exclusively to supporting conservation projects in
national parks. arial census of white-tailed deer, shoreline restoration, archeological
studies, and bald eagle population monitoring are just a few examples of projects that help
safeguard our heritage and were made possible thanks to public donations.
full details at fondsparcsquebec.com

10                                                             parcsquebec.com/ilesdeboucherville
Conservation for All!
 Survey of the Virginia Deer Population
 and Its Impact on Flora
In February, 2015, we undertook an aerial survey of the Virginia deer population in the Parc
national des Îles-de-Boucherville. We came up with a head count of 142. This physical count
has to be considered a minimum figure, because an unknown number of deer inhabiting the
park actually live on the South Shore (in the Boucherville area) in the winter when the Saint-
Lawrence River is frozen. This high deer population density has an impact on the park’s flora as
well as the natural regeneration of tree and shrub stands.

The Virginia deer is a rather opportunistic herbivore! In the summer, it feeds on tree, shrub      To preserve both the park’s flora and deer population, the Parc national des Îles-de-Boucherville
and herbaceous plant leaves and twigs, as well as fruits and fungi. In the winter, it nibbles      management has opted for measures to protect seedlings, young trees, shrubs and herbaceous
on cedar, staghorn sumac, dogwood, ash, cherry tree, poplar, willow, honeysuckle, linden and       plants. Two methods have been implemented over the past few years: mesh sleeves, i.e.,
pine buds and twigs. The high density of the Virginia deer population can have an adverse          security screens installed around the trees allowing them to grow by preventing the deer from
impact on the flora, since the deer’s intensive nibbling and treading can limit, and even block,   reaching them; and exclosures, i.e., metal fences that protect a plot of land. The deer thus has
plant succession. By nibbling away at seedlings and young trees, the deer prevents them            no access to the vegetation inside the mesh sleeves or exclosures. A survey is also in progress
from growing and attaining their maturity, thus precluding the forest’s natural regeneration.      to measure the impact of deer’s nibbling on herbaceous and woody species in order to ensure
Moreover, their treading has the effect of compacting the soil, thus compromising plant            plant species’ retention and growth.
species’ growth.

       FAMILY TIME!
       The Sépaq network has many must-see nature destinations you can explore
       as a family, so why not…

       •   Take a well-earned break from the daily grind.
       •   Create lifelong memories together.
       •   See the world through a child’s eyes once again – it’s so much fun!
       •   Soak up the wonder… and reconnect with what really matters.

       For accommodations, activities and services, go to sepaq.com/family
       to see what our family destinations have in store for you.

       Once you’re there, just relax and let nature work its magic…

       Here are some examples of the family-friendly features available in Parc national
       des Îles-de-Boucherville

       •   Playgrounds
       •   Walkers, carriages and bicycle pullers, free of charge for children
       •   Discovery activities, free of charge for children (accompanied by an adult)
       •   Picnic Areas
       •   Beach volleyball
       •   Some trails accessible for strollers.
       •   Easy hiking and biking with young children.

       sepaq.com/family                                                                                                                                                Photo : Mathieu Dupuis

                                                                               PROTECT | dISCOVER                                                                                                11
loDging

          cAMPING                                                     teNte HuttOPIA                                            eSPAce Vr

 grosbois CampgrounD                                                 huttopia tent – grosbois                               rv Camping grounD – molson area
KeeP AN eYe ON Our Web SIte                                          (reaDy for Camping)                                    the rv camping ground in the molson area offers
tO tAKe NOte OF Our OPeNING dAte                                                                                            15 campsites specially designed to accommodate
                                                                    INQuIre AbOut Our OPeNING dAte
Come and explore the park in a different way from                                                                           trailers and recreational vehicles. this rv space
                                                                    bY cONSuLtING Our Web SIte
one of our 54 campsites accessible only on foot,                                                                            is entirely clear and non-wooded with an asphalt-
                                                                    for carefree camping, 21 fully equipped huttopia
by small watercraft or via bicycle. peace and quiet                                                                         paved surface. recommended for autonomous
                                                                    tents are provided, accessible only on foot, by small
guaranteed. the campsites are set up without                                                                                visitors, since it is located further away from
                                                                    watercraft or via bicycle. enjoy a day filled with
individual services.                                                                                                        sanitary services (rest rooms and showers). please
                                                                    pleasant activities and a well-deserved rest.
                                                                                                                            carefully take notice and be aware of its features to
centralized services located nearby:
                                                                    Features:                                               make sure it suits your needs.
• Entrance station
                                                                    • Fully furnished                                       Features:
• Rest rooms
                                                                    • Full kitchen utensils and equipment for cooking
• Showers                                                                                                                   • 15 campsites, 2 services
                                                                    • Supplementary heating
• Convenience store                                                                                                         • Asphalt surface
                                                                    • Closed-plan sleeping area (two rooms with beds)
• Nature boutique                                                                                                           • Campfire section located near the site
                                                                    • Relaxation area (kitchen table and chairs)
• Nautical equipment rental service                                                                                         • Water point and emptying station
                                                                                                                            • Comfort station nearby
from                                                                 from
                                                                                                                              (500 m, accessible on foot only)
$29.75 / night                                                       $100 / night*                                          from
taxes extra                                                          *low season / starting september 7 2015
                                                                      Capacity: 5 people (max.: 4 adults)                   $31.25 / night
                                                                     taxes extra                                            taxes extra

               enJOYIng A ShOrT STAY In The pArk?

                                                                   50
       take advantage of a 50% discount on
       watercraft rental in the morning.

       Show up at the rental centre with your
                                                                                         %                     A MORNING IN THE WATER

       stay’s invoice and an identification paper.                   dISCOunT

       • Applicable on one-hour rentals only
       • The watercraft must be returned before noon
       • No reservations allowed, first come first served, quantities limited
       • One discount per day per person

12                                                                    parcsquebec.com/ilesdeboucherville
RV CAMPING GROUND – MOLSON AREA

                                                                                                                                                                              15
                                                                                                                                                                                         14
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                                                                                                                                                                                          7                        12
                                                                                                                                                                                                        9                     11

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          g                                                                                     Mo                                                               1
                                                                                                                                                                          2
 Emp on                                                                                                   lso                                                                  4
      i
  Stat Exit
                                                                                                                nA                                                                       6
                                                                                                                                                                                                    8

   and
                                                                                                                       rea                                                                                     10

                                       KEY
                                               Molson Area Entrance Station                Pedestrian and Cycling Walkway

                                               Rest Rooms and Showers                      Pedestrian and Cycling Path
                                               (500 metres)
                                                                                           Driving Direction to Be Followed
                                               Picnic Table and
                                               Campfire Confines                           RV Camping Ground Site

                                               Garbage Pails, Recycling Bins               Water Point
                                                                                                                                                                                                                    500m

GROSBOIS CAMPGROUND
                                   Grande Roue                                                                   Blériot                                                               Hippodrome

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                       8
           7
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                                                     13                               24                          44
                       9                                                                                                   45                    50         52
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                                  11                                21
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       6                                                                                                                                                                                                                58
                                                                                                40
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                                  10
                                                                                                39                                          51                                                                                      61
                5                                             17                      18                         42 46 47             49               53
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                                                                                                                                                                                                55          57
                                                                                                                                 37               38                                                               60
                                                                                 16        26    28         30                                                                                                                           62
                                       3
                              4                                                                                        31
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                                                                                                                                      33                                                        75                                       64
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                                                                                                                                                                                                              73         66
                                           2          1                   15       25                                                                                                                                                     65
                                                                                                27         29                                                                                                       71
 Boucher-de-Grosbois                                                                                                        32         34                                                74
                                                                                 Cyclists Welcome                                                35
  Archaeological Site                                                                                                                                                                         72                                    67
                                                                                                                                                                                                         70                   68
                                                                                                                                                                                                                    69

                                                                                                                                                                                         Grosbois Services Centre
                                                                                                     Playground and Picnic Area
                                                    Relaxation Area                                                                                                                      Access to Campground
                                                    with Hammocks
                                                                                                                                                                                         Pedestrian Walkway and Cycling Path
                                                                                                                                                                                         Huttopia Tent
                                                                                                                                                                                         Camping Without Individual Services
                              Pier for Rented Watercraft                                                                                                                                 Water Point
                                                                                                                                                                                         Latrines
                                                                         Pier for Ferry to Boucherville                                                                                  Rest Rooms and Showers
                                                                                                                                                 SAINT-LAWRENCE RIVER
       SCALE 1: 1000
                                                                                                                                                                                         Convenience Store
   0           25      50 m
                                                                                                                                                                                         Amphitheater

                                                                                                          PROTECT | DISCOVER                                                                                                                   13
national PARK ENTRY FEE
100% reinvested in Québec’s natural heritage
                                                                                                                                                                         Adult
It’s a real privilege to visit or stay in a national park and experience remarkable landscapes that are protected
                                                                                                                     Day Pass                                           $ 8.50
and their value enhanced by passionate people who ask only that you come discover their best-kept secrets.
The entry fee you’re required to pay is your contribution to the upkeep and conservation of a national park. With    Annual Park Card                                  $ 42.50
its affordable fee and array of exclusive benefits, the Annual Parcs Québec Network Card is another appealing
option!                                                                                                              Annual Network Card                               $ 76.50

                                                                                                                    Rates valid until March 31, 2016, taxes included
                                                                                                                    See complete fee schedule at parcsquebec.com/card

ANNUAL NETWORK CARD
Exclusive advantages

As well as allowing entry to all national parks in the Parcs Québec network for 12 months, the Annual Network
Card comes with many advantages:

• One free night of camping in the Parcs Québec network (rustic or semi-serviced, on weekdays only)
• Free entry for a one-day visit for a friend
• 15 % off in Boutique Nature shops
• 15 % off a day ticket at Sépaq’s 7 cross-country ski centres
• 15 % off daily admission at the Aquarium du Québec
• 15 % off admission to the ASTROLab in Parc national du Mont-Mégantic
• 15 % off admission to the Natural History Museum in Parc national de Miguasha

Details at parcsquebec.com/card

       CONTEST
       Destination Parcs Nunavik
                                                                                                     Québec’s national parks of Nunavik
       Between April 1 and September 1, 2015, when you purchase or
       renew your Annual Network Card, you could win a stay for 2 in a
       national park of Nunavik.

       A $10,000 value!

       A choice among 3 destinations to explore at parcsnunavik.ca
       • Parc national des Pingualuit
       • Parc national Tursujuq
       • Parc national Kuururjuaq
       Details and contest rules at parcsquebec.com/contest
                                                                                                                                                               Brian Friedrich

14                                                             parcsquebec.com/ilesdeboucherville
Calendar and Opening Hours
                 Service                                       DATES OPEN                                   HOURS                                            DAYS
  Discovery and                                  April 1 to May 1                                             9 a.m. to 4 p.m.       7 days/week
  Services Center                                May 2 to June 19                                             9 a.m. to 5 p.m.       7 days/week
  (Registration center                           June 20 to August 31                                         9 a.m. to 7 p.m.       7 days/week
  and Boutique Nature)                           August 31 to October 12                                      9 a.m. to 4 p.m.       Weekdays
                                                 August 31 to October 12                                      9 a.m. to 5 p.m.       Weekends + Legal Holidays
                                                 October 13 to March 31                                       9 a.m. to 4 p.m.       Visit our website
  Cable Ferry (Bac à câble)                      May 2 to June 19                                            11 a.m. to 5 p.m.       Weekdays
                                                 May 2 to June 19                                            10 a.m. to 6 p.m.       Weekends + Legal Holidays
                                                 June 20 to August 30                                        10 a.m. to 6 p.m.       7 days/week
                                                 August 31 to October 12                                     11 a.m. to 4 p.m.       Weekdays
                                                 August 31 to October 12                                     10 a.m. to 5 p.m.       Weekends + Legal Holidays
                                                 October 13 to October 25                                    11 a.m. to 4 p.m.       Weekends
  Snack and Dairy Bar                            May 16 to June 19                                        11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.       Weekends + Legal Holidays
                                                 June 20 to August 30                                     11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.       7 days/week
                                                 August 31 to October 12                                     11 a.m. to 5 p.m.       Weekends + Legal Holidays
  Bicycle and                                    May 2 to May 24                                              9 a.m. to 6 p.m.       Weekends + Legal Holidays
  Watercraft Rental*                             May 25 to June 19                                            9 a.m. to 6 p.m.       Weekdays
                                                 May 25 to June 19                                            9 a.m. to 7 p.m.       Weekends + Legal Holidays
                                                 June 20 to August 30                                         9 a.m. to 7 p.m.       7 days/week
                                                 August 31 to October 12                                      9 a.m. to 4 p.m.       Friday and Monday
                                                 August 31 to October 12                                      9 a.m. to 5 p.m.       Weekends + Legal Holidays
  Snowshoe Rental*                               Décember 1 to March 31                                    Visit our website         Visit our website

 * Equipment must be returned before closing time.The annual rental equipment sale will take place beginning August 31, 2015 for watercraft, and starting October 13, 2015 for bicycles. The
    calendar and opening hours are subject to modifications depending on temperatures and customer traffic. Prices, payment terms and services are subject to change without prior notice.

Bicycle and Watercraft Rental Rates
(open from May to mid-October)
                                                                                                                                       1 hour              4 hours                  Day
Sales taxes extra. Prices, terms and conditions, and                           Adult Bicycle                                          $13.50                 27.00                38.50
services are subject to change without notice. Check out
                                                                               Child Bicycle                                             6.75                13.25                19.00
our schedule above.
                                                                               Tandem Bicycle                                           19.25                38.50                55.00
                                                                               Child Carriage                                            Free                 Free                  Free
                                                                               Beach Volley-Ball Court                                  14.50                29.00                 41.50
                                                                               Canoe                                                    16.25                32.50                46.25
                                                                               Single-Seater Sea Kayak                                  16.50                33.00                 47.25
                                                                               Double-Seater Sea Kayak                                 22.25                 44.25                63.25
                                                                               Rabascaw                                                68.25                136.50               195.00
                                                                               Rowboat                                                  14.50                29.00                 41.75
                                                                               Life Vest, Rowing, and Padling
                                                                                                                                            --                   --                 6.25
                                                                               (without rental)

                                                                          PROTECT | dISCOVER                                                                                                15
99
otHer
   models
in
store

BELOEIL - BROSSARD - BURLINGTON - CAMBRIDGE - ETOBICOKE - LAVAL - OSHAWA
                       OTTAWA - QUEBEC - VAUGHAN
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