Biosphere reserves are sites of excellence to explore and demonstrate how nature and humans can coexist in harmony.

Inhabited areas designated as biosphere reserves by UNESCO include deserts, prairies, forests, mountains and marshes.

The biosphere reserve network comprises more than 500 reserves in over 100 countries, including 13 in Canada.

In every biosphere reserve, local communities work to put in place innovative practices—such as new techniques in agriculture, forestry and fishing—along with new formulas for urban development.

Places of cooperation and exploration, Biosphere Reserves seek implication from citizens to businesses and from governments to organizations.

The Mont Saint-Hilaire Biosphere Reserve is crossed by the Richelieu River, which originates in the Lake Champlain Biosphere Reserve and empties into Lac Saint-Pierre.

At the core of the reserve is one of the oldest forests in southern Quebec, home to nearly 1,000 species of plants, mammals, birds and reptiles, over 50 of which are rare or threatened.

Over the centuries, the riches of Mont Saint-Hilaire have helped shape and inspire the region’s artists, writers, musicians and storytellers. Even today, that natural and cultural wealth remains an inspiration for many and a source of renown.

Reflecting changing mentalities, the dawn of environmental awareness and concrete initiatives to protect natural ecosystems, the Reserve offers residents and visitors eloquent examples of how man can coexist harmoniously with nature.

Throughout the Reserve, projects are being carried out to protect the greenbelt, restore our forest corridors, plan responsible urbanization that considers the natural environment, and promote agritourism and organic agriculture.