This is an archived post from April 24, 2017 written by Emmanuel during his 4th year in the Environmental Politics, Justice and Arts stream of the Bachelor in Environmental Studies. Emmanuel launched the Environmental Studies “Eco-Tour” blog with his posts for Eco-Navigating the YU Campus. His posts serve as a guide to York University’s Keele Campus, highlighting some of some of Emmanuel’s “go-to” places for studying, relaxation, and getting in-touch with the more natural features/spaces of the university.
Osgoode Woodlot:
The Osgoode Woodlot. It's a lot prettier in Spring, I promise!
Named after William Osgoode, an 18th century chief justice of Lower Canada, the Osgoode Woodlot is located on the South West corner of the Keele Campus (And conveniently next door to YorkU's Osgoode Hall Law School). It is another one of York University’s four woodlots and, together with Boyer woods, is considered a part of the City of Toronto’s Natural Heritage System (a system intended to support natural processes which are necessary to maintain biological and geological diversity).
Within the woodlot are two structures: Hart House and the York Tipi. The former is a log house and one of the oldest buildings in Toronto, while the latter serves as a reminder of the many Indigenous nations that have long standing relationships with the territories upon which the Keele campus is located that precede the establishment of YorkU. York University acknowledges its presence on the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation territory as well as its presence on the traditional territories of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, the Huron-Wendat Nation, and the Métis Nation. FES offers courses that explore these traditional territories and their lasting impact on the community today (Check out courses like Environmental Politics, Justice, and the Arts and National Parks and Indigenous People). YorkU is also home to the Centre for Aboriginal Student Services which provides support services to indigenous students including academic advice, and personal counselling.
Danby Woodlot:
The Danby Woodlot with early morning light. Who else is ready for spring?
On the North East corner of York's Keele Campus is the Danby Woods. The woodlot is named after members of the Danby family, English farmers who settled in the area in the mid 19th century and influenced its development.
Like the other woodlots, Danby is home to a variety of species and is rich with vegetation. Although it's a bit on the edge of campus, this woodlot is one I always enjoy passing by, especially on sunny days (you can see why in the picture above). If you are looking for somewhere quiet to maybe catch up on some reading or take a short nap (Naps are very important for both kindergartners and university students), this would be one of the places I suggest. Laying on the grass, under the shade of the trees, with a good novel (especially during the sunny days in Spring) make up some of my fondest memories at YorkU.
