Annabel first heard of Watersheds Canada many years ago when she was trying to learn how to better protect Lake Simcoe. She was a part of Ladies of the Lake which was involved with lake health on Lake Simcoe and remedial action. Annabel was one of many who responded to Executive Director Barbara King’s recent letter outlining the struggles Watersheds Canada is facing because of COVID-19. “The letter struct a chord with me. I wanted to help when I saw was needed. I encourage others to support Watersheds Canada”, said Annabel.

Annabel remembers being able to drink directly from Lake Simcoe when she was at the cottage as a child. She finds happiness at and draws inspiration from her lake. “Connecting to water makes your life deeper and richer. I want all people to find joy in helping their lake”, said Annabel.

An aerial view ClearWater Farm on the shore of Lake Simcoe.

Annabel is Founding Chair of the Ontario Water Centre, the charitable educational organization inspired by water whose mission is to deepen young people’s connection with the natural environment, marrying the arts, science, and technology to cultivate a more sustainable future. She is also founder of the charity’s flagship initiative ClearWater Farm, a lakeside educational farm for fresh food, fresh water, fresh air, and fresh ideas.

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Watersheds Canada’s staff of 6 are currently working reduced hours from home; however, we are also facing our own challenges with the impacts of COVID-19 on our organization. Unfortunately, we have been heavily impacted by the loss of funding and changing grant priorities. Some of our funding sources are able to extend deadlines for our deliverables, but unfortunately, others have had to cancel granting contracts and sponsorships with us at this time.

If you are able to donate, we ask that you think of us during this time. Even your gift of $25 is a huge help to us. Together, this allows us to protect the very waters that sustain us. Your gift now will help to make sure that Watersheds Canada stays strong and is able to take action on protecting our freshwater into the future. Please donate if you can.