Ile Bizard
Ile Bizard is an island located at the western tip of Laval and to the northwest of Montreal, above the West Island. It is known to have an exceptional forest ecosystem and consequently frequented by nature photographers both locally and from afar.
Principal ecological characteristics (August 2005)
- Includes a forest ecosystem designated exceptional
- Contains important networks of wetlands
- Is home to many rare plant species, including seven threatened species
- Provides habitat for birds of prey, including two threatened species
- Includes sugar maples one hundred years old or older
Home of the Royal Montreal Golf Club. Royal Montreal is the oldest golf club in North America, having been founded in 1873. In that year, a small group of eight gentlemen sat in a dockside office and formed the Montreal Golf Club. Eleven years later, in 1884, permission was granted by Queen Victoria to use the "Royal" prefix.
The first golf course was a 9-hole layout on Fletcher's Field, part of Mount Royal Park, which was shared by the red-coated golfers and other citizens relaxing in what was then the outskirts of Montreal.
In 1896, the club moved to Dixie, in the parish of Dorval, where it remained until the pressures of urban growth again dictated a decision to move. The clubhouse at Dixie is now the Queen of Angels Academy for Girls.
The last move was to Ile Bizard in 1959, where 45 holes were constructed. The Blue Course continues to be ranked as one of the "100 Greatest Courses in the World".
The Club, host to the Canadian Open nine times, is proud of its history, traditions and facilities. |
