Excitement buzzes through Niagara Falls as the new comedy mini-series "Forest Captain" wraps up filming at the beloved Heartland Forest. The four-part adventure comedy, set to premiere on February 18, 2025, follows the humorous escapades of the Heartland Forest Rangers.
Film crews spent weeks capturing scenes across the forest's many accessible trails. The Pin Oak Trail, Black Gum Trail, OTF Boardwalk Trail, Accessible Pollinator Loop, and OPG Pollinator Trail all served as natural backdrops for the show. These locations showcase the forest's diverse plant life, including its four types of maple trees: black, red, sugar, and freeman's.
"Forest Captain" faced unique challenges during production. Crews worked carefully to protect the forest's wildlife, including its ten amphibian and four reptile species. Several scenes feature turtles that sunbathe to thermoregulate as these fascinating exotherms rely on external heat sources. They also maintained accessibility for regular visitors while filming took place.
Balancing wildlife protection and visitor access created distinctive filming hurdles throughout Heartland Forest's diverse ecosystem.
Located at 8215 Heartland Forest Rd in Niagara Falls, this natural haven was created by Dan Bouwman for his granddaughter Sydney. The forest's mission focuses on igniting curiosity about nature while providing accessible programs for people of all abilities.
The Nature Centre, with its Discovery Atrium and Café, served as a hub for the production team. The forest's woodworking shop and gift shop will appear in several scenes. These elements help the show balance comedy with educational themes about conservation.
Producers expect "Forest Captain" to appeal to both nature enthusiasts and comedy fans. The series aims to raise awareness about accessible nature experiences while promoting the Niagara Falls area as a tourist destination.
The show's creators worked closely with Heartland Forest staff to incorporate the site's educational mission into the storyline. By highlighting the forest's unique features, "Forest Captain" hopes to inspire environmental stewardship through entertainment.
Tourism officials predict the series will increase visitor numbers to Heartland Forest once it airs, bringing attention to this special place where conservation, accessibility, education, and wellness intersect.
