Île des Juifs
Wildlife Reserve

(Cadastral map of site also available: 73 K)

Aerial view towards south-west of Île des Juifs. Photo: Michel Leblond		This island, part of the Sainte-Rose archipelago at Laval, is one of the many islands along the Mille Iles River that have remained in their natural state. Mature forest communities cover most of the island. A number of typical local species are present, including silver maple, sugar maple, butternut hickory, button-bush and red oak.
Eight plant species that are likely to be designated as threatened or vulnerable have been recorded in surveys on the island, including handsome sedge (Carex formosa), a very rare species in Quebec and lizard’s tail (Saururus cernuus). In addition to having a very diverse flora, the island is frequented by many birds and mammals.		Lizard's tail, a rare plant species in Québec. Photo: Michel Leblond

On account of its substantial botanical and ecological value, Île des Juifs was acquired by the non-profit organization Éco-Nature de Laval Inc., the promoter of the Mille Iles River Park, in co-ownership with the City of Rosemère. This park consists of a mosaic of natural sites that are already protected or are slated for protection and have been made available for light recreation, primarily boating activities, and nature interpretation.

The Mille Iles River has some exceptional habitats which are essentially undisturbed, but are fragile and therefore call for conservation action. Thanks to the acquisition of Île des Juifs (10.57 ha), this site with its rich natural diversity is now protected from the strong development pressures of this largely urbanized region.

Just recently (August 1998), part of the land along the Mille Iles River was granted the status of wildlife reserve. Île des Juifs is one of the 10 islands comprised in this new protected area covering 26 hectares.