Capital Stories

Each winter, the NCC transforms the RideauCanal into the world’s largest skating rink, a signature destination that brings joy to skaters of all ages. As climate change threatens one of Canada’s most iconic winter experiences, the NCC is rethinking how to keep the RideauCanal Skateway open for generations to come. In this episode, we go behind the scenes, exploring the Skateway’s history, the ice-making process, the growing challenges, and the creative solutions implemented so far.Can innovation and adaptation keep this belovedtradition alive? Tune in to find out.Watch this episode on YouTube⁠.Get the transcriptCapital Stories – Preserving the Rideau Canal Skateway⁠Histoires de la capitale – Préserver la patinoire du canal Rideau

From wildlife rescues to trail patrols, NCC conservation officers are on the front lines every day. They play a key role in environmental stewardship and public safety across the Capital Region’s vast network of parks and green spaces.In this episode, we go behind the scenes with members of the team, who keep over 1,000 square kilometres of NCC lands safe for everyone. Learn what a day in the field looks like, how conservation officers respond to emergencies, and what it takes to protect both nature and visitors in places like Gatineau Park and the Greenbelt.Tune in to find out more.Watch this episode on YouTube⁠.Get the transcript Capital Stories – Into the Wild Histoires de la capitale – Au cœur de la nature

Stretching along both sides of the Ottawa River, the core area is the symbolic and geographic heart of the NationalCapital Region. It is home to Parliament Hill, national museums, cultural landmarks, and vibrant public spaces. In this episode, we explore how the NCC will guide the evolution of central federal lands over the next 20 years. From bold design moves to sustainability and accessibility, this long-term vision reimagines how people will live, work and experience the Capital’s most iconic spaces. Tune in to find out what’s changing, what’s possible, and how public input is helping to shape the future of Ottawa-Gatineau.Watch this episode on ⁠YouTube⁠.Get the transcript Capital Stories – Shaping the Heart of the Nation’s Capital Histoires de la capitale – Façonner le cœur de la capitale du pays

Rideau Hall isn’t just home to Canada’s governors general. It’s also home to towering evergreens, ceremonial trees planted by world leaders, and greenhouses that quietly support the country’s most important events. In this episode, we explore the only official residence open to the public, where the NCC’s horticulture team keeps 32 hectares thriving through Ottawa’s four seasons. From rare orchids to vegetable gardens, we dig into the challenges of maintaining this living landmark and discover what’s next for its aging greenhouses. Tune in to find out how the grounds stay vibrantyear-round and what surprises grow behind the scenes.Watch this episode on ⁠YouTube⁠.Get the transcriptCapital Stories – Inside Rideau Hall’s GreenhousesHistoires de la capitale – Dans les serres de Rideau Hall

For decades, the NCC has worked to reconnect the Capital with its waterways. Today, that vision is coming to life through vibrant new public spaces along the Ottawa River, Rideau Canal and beyond.In this episode, we explore how shoreline animation is transforming the way people experience the region’s waterfronts. From bistros and rentals to beaches and docks, these projects create welcoming and accessible destinations for everyone to enjoy.Tune in to find out how the NCC is investing in shoreline infrastructure, expanding public access and turning toward the water in the National Capital Region.Watch this episode on YouTube.Get the transcriptCapital Stories – Bringing the Capital’s Shorelines to LifeHistoires de la capitale – Animer les berges de la capitale