How Nature Heals: One Tree (and Bee) at a Time

Creating a better world for future generations is no small task. But small actions—when done together—can have a big impact. As part of this year’s Adopt a Bee campaign, we’re continuing our mission to nurture the environment and create safer communities by supporting the planting of a new forest in Alberta. From now until the end of August, all Adopt a Bee donations will be matched by AMA, up to $50,000, and will directly support the Ma Matow Sakow Healing Forest.

Nestled between Edmonton and Red Deer, Wetaskiwin has deep roots. As one of Alberta’s oldest cities and home to one of the largest First Nations reserves in North America, its name means “the hills where peace was made” in Cree. Situated on a former construction landfill in the city, a site soon to be known as the Ma Matow Sakow Healing Forest is being rewilded with 8,600 trees that will serve as a place where residents and visitors can connect with culturally significant plants, nature, and each other.

This Indigenous-led collaboration between Project Forest, the City of Wetaskiwin, and Elder Ivy Raine, is more than a sustainability initiative; it’s providing a place for healing, connection, and reconciliation where generations, both present and future, can feel connected to something greater. It’s a way to honour the rich history of Indigenous people in a tangible way, restoring the land to what it’s naturally meant to be.

Councillor Gabrielle Blatz, who has lived in the Wetaskiwin area most of her life, shares how the forest is just one of the many steps we can take toward reconciliation.

“Reconciliation is about building a lasting relationship,” says Blatz. “I want this forest to be a place of peace for everybody, a place to heal, but also a place to reflect on what work needs to be done in the future.”

And for Blatz, this forest represents a personal and deep call to community.

“I always viewed trees as a symbol of strength,” says Blatz. “For trees to survive, they need to draw strength from one another and communicate with each other. That lifelong communication keeps them alive—and it’s the perfect example of what community should be.”

Growing up, Blatz referred to trees as her playground. “It’s almost like a call back to my inner child to show what healing looks like,” she adds. “Being able to do this for people who have similar stories to mine adds an extra layer of meaning.”

And you can be part of the story.

The trees planted in this forest are pollinator-friendly, making it the perfect home for bees to thrive. Pollinators are essential to the ecosystem in Alberta. By adopting a bee, you’re contributing to the impactful rewilding process happening right here on this land.

It’s a powerful way to make a difference—for the environment, for the residents of Wetaskiwin, and for generations to come.

“Trees are something that outlive all of us. They’re a monument of what reconciliation is—and should be.” – Gabrielle Blatz