Attention to detail

by Robert Pye, Executive Director, Watersheds Canada Nature art fills my home, a growing collection that started before I even owned four walls to display it. Framed wildlife prints by the talents of Carl Brenders and Michael Dumas, for example, were acquired in my starting-out days of paying rent and student loans. Many years later though, I have property where my taste in art imitates the wildlife that surrounds my country home. My most cherished work of nature art is a one-of-a-kind ... Read More

by Alana Coulombe, Education programs administrator As the interface between land and bodies of water, shorelines are essential for both humans and wildlife and must be protected against erosion and flooding. Historical means of shoreline protection consisted of hardened structures such as retaining walls made of concrete, steel, armour stone, gabion baskets, or wood. However, this shoreline armouring can have severe ecological and economic impacts with few short-term benefits. Recent studies ... Read More

by Jane Pangilinan, Digital Engagement Technician Erosion is a major problem for shorelines, agriculture, and freshwater areas. Erosion is a natural process that removes soil and also reduces specific aspects of the soil like its ability to retain water (Duran Zuazo & Rodriguez Pleguezuelo, 2008). Erosion affects the soil’s ability to grow food and can cause eroded land cover that can lead to severe land loss. Human impacts are known to accelerate erosion (Aziz & Islam, 2023) and ... Read More

by Chantal Lefevre, Natural Edge Regional Coordinator From a young age, I have spent my summers in lakes and rivers either boating, swimming, or just exploring the environment. My love for nature drove me to explore a career in the environmental field. I started my post secondary learning experience at Fleming College, attaining a diploma as an environmental technician and advanced diploma as an environmental technologist. My quench for knowledge was not satisfied, so I continued my formal ... Read More

by Nicole Dubé, Freshwater Health Coordinator Did you know Canada is home to 25% of the world's wetlands? In fact, there are approximately 1.29 million square kilometres of wetlands covering 13% of Canada's terrestrial area! Wetlands are important natural features that provide critical habitat for endangered and at-risk species. They act as spawning grounds for many fish species and offer great nesting, resting, and foraging places for birds and animals. They also play an important role in ... Read More

by Darlene Coyle, Environmental Policy and Planning Lead In September, local candidates and voters in Ontario showed up at the polls to drive local change for their freshwater and shoreland health. Many people participated in Watersheds Canada's "Engaging Municipal Elected Officials to Protect our Freshwater" webinar.  A year later, we want to look back at the priorities voters saw going into municipal election time and how we can help you bring important resources and programs to your ... Read More

Each item in this series will help you and your family enjoy nature this winter as you get outside, help local species, try a new activity, and appreciate nature! All of the activities are low barrier and low cost to make them as inclusive as possible. Whether you are a seasoned winter explorer or new to Canadian winters, there are lots of small and fun ways to enjoy this season. Let's get started with Watersheds Canada’s 10 Days of Winter Fun! 1. Making Maple Taffy Maple taffy, or tire ... Read More