Blog

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 Monica Seidel, Communications and Fundraising Manager With summer just a few months away, you may find yourself already planning for upcoming adventures on the lake. Paddling, swimming, wildlife viewing, and fishing are some of the activities you may be looking forward to. Lakes provide many benefits to people: memory-building with family and friends, a connection to culture and traditions, or economic and recreation opportunities. And all of these benefits and activities depend on healthy ... 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

by Robert Pye, Executive Director It’s time for an ugly Christmas sweater and an eggnog mustache smile as we share the holiday cheer with our great friends and supporters of Watersheds Canada.  Under many Christmas trees this year are the stunning images of otters, beavers, monarch butterflies, brook trout and wild columbine. These creations by Canadian artists, were delivered from Watersheds Canada, signed with care by our symbolic “gift of nature” givers, and addressed in honour of ... Read More

by Jane Pangilinan, Digital Engagement Technician The Ottawa Faith Community Capacity Building (OFCCB) initiative is a collaboration between Greening Sacred Spaces and Watersheds Canada made to empower six faith communities with the ability to enhance their community, both in the environment and with each other. Bridging the gap between awareness and stewardship, the OFCCB will support and provide the resources needed to develop and lead a local environmental project. The OFFCB will help six ... Read More