Yes, the Sabiston Landfill (in the John and Leslie Streets area of Thornhill), covering a total of 26 hectares (65 acres), was closed and capped in 1975. Prior to its closure it served as an aggregate extraction pit from 1940-60 and then as a landfill. The City of Markham purchased the land in 1983 and is responsible for ongoing maintenance and monitoring of methane gas and leachate.
Today, this natural park is part of the German Mills Creek system and the East Don watershed. It is an important ecosystem that supports an abundance of flora and fauna, including over 70 bird and 15 mammal species. The park is also home to amphibians and reptiles, including frogs, snapping turtles, garter and little brown snakes, several species of fish and many varieties of insects.
The large grassland on the west side of German Mills Creek provides a valuable nesting site for ground nesting birds. The vegetation in this area consists of tall and short grasses, broad-leaf plants, as well as scattered shrubs and trees. This provides for a variety of habitats and helps create a healthy ecosystem supporting diverse and abundant wildlife.
The city, working closely with the community, is a good custodian of the land ensuring the safety of residents and properties while protecting and enhancing the environment. Over the past 10 (2010-20) years $2.1M has been invested in new plantings, infrastructure, remediation and monitoring activities.