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
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Shaping the Heart of the Nation’s Capital
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
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Inside Rideau Hall’s Greenhouses
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
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Bringing the Capital’s Shorelines to Life
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
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The Capital’s Waterways
Once a backwater lumber town, Ottawa is now one of the greenest capitals in the world. As the federal planner, the NCC is at the forefront of projects that embrace the waterfront. Initiatives such as the NCC River House, Kìwekì Point and the rehabilitation of the Westboro Beach pavilion are recent examples of this turn toward the water.
In this episode, NCC CEO Tobi Nussbaum and his guests discuss how waterways have played—and continue to play—an essential role in the history of the National Capital Region.
Transcripts
Capital Stories – Episode 4 (The Capital’s Waterways) – English transcript
Capital Stories – Episode 4 (The Capital’s Waterways) – French transcript
In Capital Stories, NCC CEO Tobi Nussbaum and guests dive deeply into the ins and outs of our nation’s capital. Follow along as they explore Ottawa-Gatineau’s evolution from a quaint lumber town to the bustling, dynamic capital city we know today.
Through conversations with historians, urban planners, architects and others, this podcast series talks about all things past, present and future in Canada’s beautiful national capital.
Tune in to hear the stories that make our capital truly captivating.
Canada - english