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by Alana Coulombe Algae occur naturally in ponds, lakes, rivers, and streams, growing in sunlight, warm temperatures, and the presence of nutrients (Watersheds Canada, 2016). Freshwater algae are unicellular microscopic plants that use photosynthesis to convert carbon dioxide, water, and sunlight into oxygen and chemical energy. Although functionally similar, algae are an evolutionarily diverse group of organisms with different classifications (Lowe & LaLiberte, 2017). Are all algae ... Read More

by Alana Coulombe Developed shorelines have a higher risk of erosion and often require protection of upland areas. The best way to stabilize your shoreline for long-term protection is by enhancing or creating a natural shoreline buffer consisting of native wildflowers, trees, shrubs, and grasses. If, however, your shoreline requires a stronger approach than plants alone, consider installing vegetated riprap instead of typical retaining walls or gabion baskets (Natural Edge, 2022). Riprap uses ... Read More

written by Terri-Lee Reid, Conservation Researcher, Canadian Wildlife Federation When you love your lake, you will want to make sure your septic system is functioning properly. Improperly treated wastewater may contain bacteria, viruses, phosphorus, and nitrogen. Inadequate treatment can result in an overabundance of weeds and algal blooms. This can make a lake unpleasant for swimming and boating, affect water quality, fish, wildlife, and their habitats, and it can cause health risks for ... Read More

by Samantha Cunningham The first step in helping your new plantings is ensuring they are properly planted to start. Choose a location for your plant that is best-suited for its entire life-cycle. This includes checking its environmental preferences, for native species check out the Native Plant Database for this info. As well as ensuring the new planting will not need to be transplanted later in its life due to encroachment on pathways, water lines, and electrical wires for example. There ... Read More

by Samantha Cunningham Ticks are a member of the arachnid family, like scorpions and spiders. They move through crawling movements only, and survive through feeding on whatever blood-flowing creatures are available, humans included. Ticks in Canada There are around 40 species of ticks in Canada which range in size from a pinhead to a dime. Ticks are present across Canada, living in wooded areas, tall grasses, and under leaf litter. Ticks can be present in urbanized green spaces as well as ... Read More

by Samantha Cunningham One of the best things about creating a pollinator garden is the diversity of beauty that can be included! However, not all pollinator gardens welcome the same diversity of species. Bees are the most important and common pollinator type, with over 800 species in Canada! Luckily everyone’s favourite gentle friend the bumblebee is not only cute, but a native species as well. Be sure to respectfully admire the females who can sting multiple times unlike the non-native ... Read More

by Samantha Cunningham While environmental organizations often differ in purpose and mission, one thing we all agree on is the importance of native plant species. Our Native Plant Database and Natural Edge program are based on equipping landowners with tools to best naturalize their shoreline using native plants. The Forest Gene Conservation Association is another organization educating the public about native plants and the importance of genetic diversity in vegetation. Their primary focus ... Read More

by Samantha Cunningham We often talk a lot about pollinators as a general grouping of insects we see in our gardens and hear about on the news. Recently, there are major concerns about the health of honeybee populations in North America and how a decline in pollinators has many severe implications. Aside from honeybees, there are about 800 other species of bees in Canada, and as well as countless other species of butterflies, moths, beetles, and hummingbirds that are considered pollinators. ... Read More

by Samantha Cunningham Winter in Canada officially lasts a total of 4 months, although sometimes it can feel much longer! This season can be a difficult one, especially for wildlife. Canadian species have either evolved to migrate to warmer climates, hibernate, or adapt to these seasonal changes. Some of these adaptations include hibernation, storage food, physical changes, and other location dependent characteristics. The increased development of natural areas has placed stress on species ... Read More

by Nicole Davy While Ontario winters can be cold and dark, there are still many ways you can enjoy the outdoors and spend time in nature. This list of ten ways to enjoy nature this winter will inspire you to get outside, help local species, try a new activity, and appreciate local nature with your whole family! 1. Build a Winter Shelter The word 'quinzee' or 'quinzhee' is of Athabaskan origin. A quinzee is a Canadian winter shelter made of snow that is shaped and hollowed out. They can ... Read More