Seed and Genetic Diversity

by Samantha Cunningham, Ecological technician 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 ... Read More

by Samantha Cunningham, Ecological technician 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 ... Read More

by Samantha Cunningham, Ecological technician 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 ... Read More

by Nicole Dubé, Freshwater Health Coordinator 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 ... Read More

You have helped protect Canada's freshwater this past year. You can continue to make a difference with your year-end donation before midnight on December 31st and receive a 2021 charitable tax receipt! One project your support made possible in 2021 was the restoration of in-water fish habitat on two lakes! Woody debris piles (pictured) provide critical habitat features for fish and turtles.   Your support in 2021 has resulted in on-the-ground, tangible impacts to protect and ... Read More

by Monica Seidel, Communications and Fundraising Manager, Watersheds Canada This past summer, you might have enjoyed the company of a northern map turtle, green frog, calico pennant dragonfly, or Great Blue Heron. Like you probably did, these charismatic and iconic species spent a large part of their summer near the shoreline. In fact, these species depend on the shoreline and riparian zone for their very survival. This zone includes the first 30-metres of land around a lake, river, or bay ... Read More

by Mario Garavito, Ecological technician In its simple definition, a lake is a body of water that is surrounded by land. A lake can be found in every continent around the world, varying greatly in size and in depth. It could be small enough to fit in your backyard - like a pond - or so big that it is known as sea - the Caspian Sea is the world’s largest inland lake, measuring over 371,000 km2 in size! Canada is exceptionally fortunate when it comes to lakes. According to different studies, ... Read More

Online workshop provides opportunities for freshwater stewardship discussions Lake Links is an annual workshop usually held in Perth, Ontario. Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2021, this one-day, collaboratively run workshop was held online and attracted citizens and scientists from across Canada to share ways we can all help sustain our lakes and rivers. This was a great opportunity for individuals, waterfront and nature groups, and students to gather together to discuss current issues, see ... Read More

by Priya Vaidya, Environmental technician As the air starts to cool and the days become shorter, I can sense that it will soon be time to fly down south. It feels like just yesterday when I left the cozy little nest that my parents built for me and my four siblings. Our nest was in a humble wetland, north of Lake Erie. My father found a silver maple tree with the perfect little nook that was carved out by a Downy Woodpecker and started to build a nest from moss and bark. When he met my ... Read More

by Priya Vaidya, Environmental technician On September 26, 2021, the world celebrates World Rivers Day, which aims to raise awareness and engagement for conserving our rivers and waterways. With over 8,500 known rivers in Canada and growing, these ribbons of freshwater play a major role in our daily lives. Rivers carry freshwater from sources like rainfall or snowmelt and deliver it to larger bodies of water, like lakes. They are a source of fresh drinking water, recreation for Canadians, and ... Read More