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# Watersheds Canada – Work, Live & Play in Healthy Lakes and Rivers

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## Posts

- [Maintaining your Septic System](https://watersheds.ca/maintaining-your-septic-system/) - by Paige Jessup, Climate Change Resiliency Intern Proper design and maintenance of your septic system is important in ensuring it functions properly and will not end up costing you and the environment. Improperly treated wastewater may contain bacteria, viruses, phosphorus, and nitrogen. If this gets into the ground water or nearby water body, it can
- [Media Release - Lake Trout and Walleye Spawning Beds Restored Across Central-Eastern Ontario](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-lake-trout-and-walleye-spawning-beds-restored-across-central-eastern-ontario/) - September 16, 2025 - Watersheds Canada’s Fish Habitat team is delivering a series of spawning bed restoration projects this fall to promote the population growth of declining lake trout and walleye populations across Central-Eastern Ontario. After two projects in early September, the organization is now looking ahead to two more: one in a lake north
- [PFOS resources](https://watersheds.ca/pfos-resources/) - Be sure to leave your comments and feedback section at the bottom of this page! We value your thoughts as you download and use these resource so we can improve them over time. Septic System education resource toolkit Maintaining a waterfront property or cottage takes a lot of work, but it is important not to
- [$10,000 South Frontenac Lake Ecosystem Grant Helps Watersheds Canada Restore and Protect Local Shorelines](https://watersheds.ca/south-frontenac-lake-ecosystem-grant-helps-watersheds-canada-restore-and-protect-local-shorelines/) - Funding supported the restoration of 500 metres of shoreline and 1,200m² of riparian habitat across South Frontenac, Ontario. November 10, 2025 -- Watersheds Canada received a $10,000 Lake Ecosystem Grant from the Township of South Frontenac to implement The Natural Edge shoreline naturalization program. The funding supported the restoration of 10 waterfront properties across South
- [Enter Watersheds Canada’s Nature Art Raffle for a chance to win big! ](https://watersheds.ca/art-raffle-2025/) - Nature has always influenced art, lending inspiration for the colours, textures, and forms that evoke the sense of peace that we feel when we are outside. Now, that connection comes full circle: art is giving back to nature in our new Nature Art Raffle! This is an opportunity to win one of two stunning, hand-made
- [New Marginal Lands Initiative Offers Up to 90% Funding for Farmers // La nouvelle Initiative pour les terres marginales propose aux agriculteurs un soutien financier pouvant aller jusqu'à 90 %](https://watersheds.ca/rapl-release-2025/) - New Marginal Lands Initiative Offers Up to 90% Funding for Farmers September 23, 2025 -- The Eastern Ontario Farm Stewardship Collaborative—which brings together Watersheds Canada, Conservation Authorities, Ducks Unlimited Canada, Forests Canada, Just Food, and other partners—is proud to launch the Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program (RALP) – Marginal Lands Initiative. This new funding opportunity will support farmers
- [Leading freshwater conservation charity launches technology to protect Canada’s shorelines from climate change impacts](https://watersheds.ca/leading-freshwater-conservation-charity-launches-technology-to-protect-canadas-shorelines-from-climate-change-impacts/) - PERTH, ON — September 25, 2025 Watersheds Canada, a national freshwater conservation charity, has launched a new Climate Resiliency Report generator through their award-winning The Natural Edge shoreline restoration program. The new report generator will allow for locally-specific resources and stewardship action plans to be at the fingertips of those hard-hit by the impacts of
- [Septic System Starter](https://watersheds.ca/septic-system-starter/) - by Paige Jessup, Climate Change Resiliency Intern A septic system that is not properly installed or old and failing can have devastating consequences for freshwater ecosystems, so take time to learn how to properly install and care for your septic system. Installing or replacing your septic system can look like a daunting and expensive task
- [Resources for Property Owners](https://watersheds.ca/septic-system-resources-for-property-owners/) - Watersheds Canada's education toolkit about septic systems: https://watersheds.ca/septics Septic System Basics for Homeowners: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=04ZIjz8kAPw This video addresses the basics of how a septic system functions and provides best maintenance practices for homeowners. FOCA Cottage Country Septic System: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ix9nbF8qUrA In this video made by Federation of Ontario Cottagers’ Associations guides you through all the different
- [Fish habitat on 15 Central-Eastern Ontario lakes recovering thanks to Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund](https://watersheds.ca/fish-habitat-on-15-central-eastern-ontario-lakes-recovering-thanks-to-bass-pro-shops-and-cabelas-outdoor-fund/) - November 4, 2025 - A monumental two-year fish habitat restoration effort led by national freshwater conservation charity, Watersheds Canada, has supported native fish populations on 15 Central-Eastern Ontario lakes. Thanks to the visionary support of the Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund, over 300 underwater woody debris structures (brush bundles) were built and put into
- [Symbolically adopt a Red Fox family, Wood Duck pair, Wild Iris, & more!](https://watersheds.ca/gifts-of-freshwater-2025/) - As the leaves fall from the trees and nights start to get frosty, one thing is clear: winter is coming, and with it the holiday season. It’s time to find the snowshoes, dust off the winter coats, and hunt for the perfect gifts for those you love. Finding unique and thoughtful gifts can be difficult,
- [Buffer Zones to Prevent Harmful Algae Blooms](https://watersheds.ca/buffer-zones-to-prevent-harmful-algae-blooms/) - by Paige Jessup, Climate Change Resiliency Intern Each summer, harmful algae blooms are at the forefront of local news around the country. The danger to humans, pets, and livestock have increased public awareness but these blooms also have a profound ecological impact. Could buffer zones play a role in combating these algae blooms? Toxic algae
- [Can Natural Buffers Help Mitigate Salt Pollution?](https://watersheds.ca/can-natural-buffers-help-mitigate-salt-pollution/) - by Andres Clavier, Freshwater Stewardship Education Intern Salts, a common winter ally for icy streets, have profound ecological impacts as the melted snow and ice wash these salts away. What role, if any, do natural buffers of vegetation along shorelines provide in protecting waterbodies against this alarming pollution? A natural buffer predominantly comprises vegetation like
- [Are Canada’s lakes becoming salty?](https://watersheds.ca/are-canadas-lakes-becoming-salty/) - by Andres Clavier, Freshwater Stewardship Education Intern Recent research has highlighted concerning news: there has been a pronounced escalation in the salinization of our freshwater bodies over the past twenty years. If this trend continues, many Canadian lakes will reach critical levels in the next 40 years. Elevated salt concentrations can severely impair aquatic flora,
- [How to Identify Salt Vulnerable Areas](https://watersheds.ca/how-to-identify-salt-vulnerable-areas/) - by Andres Clavier, Freshwater Stewardship Education Intern With the widespread use of salts in countries to combat winter's icy conditions, our freshwater ecosystems are increasing in salinity which is hazardous for our ecosystems. This is especially true for salt vulnerable areas. What is a Salt Vulnerable Area? A salt vulnerable area refers to freshwater sources,
- [Best Practices from the ECCC Code of Practice: Aiming for Reduced Salt Pollution](https://watersheds.ca/best-practices-from-the-eccc-code-of-practice/) - by Andres Clavier, Freshwater Stewardship Education Intern The environmental repercussions of excessive salt application have instigated numerous research and policy endeavours. One significant contribution in this area is the "Code of Practice for the Environmental Management of Road Salts" developed by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). This post delineates the salient practices endorsed by this
- [Are There Alternative Solutions to Salt Pollution?](https://watersheds.ca/are-there-alternative-solutions-to-salt-pollution/) - by Andres Clavier, Freshwater Stewardship Education Intern In cold climates, icy roads, pathways, and parking lots have traditionally been navigable thanks to salt. As environmental awareness grows, so does the quest for more ecologically kind alternatives. Although a multitude of alternatives have been tested, finding a universally accepted replacement has remained a challenge. In this
- [Cyanobacteria and Canada’s Great Lakes](https://watersheds.ca/cyanobacteria-and-canadas-great-lakes/) - by Paige Jessup, Climate Change Resiliency Intern Reports of blue-green algae in the Great Lakes have bloomed in the last decade. The increased public awareness has shed a light on the issue of eutrophication on freshwater lakes. However, there are other factors involved in the growth of algae like invasive species, overfishing, and food web
- [The best before and after habitat photos ever!](https://watersheds.ca/the-best-before-and-after-habitat-photos-ever/) - Our Fish Habitat team doesn’t start by asking what is possible; we ask what needs to be done, and how we can partner with communities to make it happen. Grounded in practicality, research, and collaboration, our work takes direct action to restore critical habitat for native fish. Your donation today will help us continue this
- [Winter Spawning Bed Restoration Project Nominated for 2025 Water Canada Awards](https://watersheds.ca/winter-spawning-bed-restoration-project-nominated-for-2025-water-canada-awards/) - Watersheds Canada is thrilled that one of their Fish Habitat projects is a finalist for the ‘Conservation: Small Project Award’ category in the 2025 Water Canada Awards. This annual award ceremony recognizes people, projects, and technologies that demonstrate a strong commitment to improving the state of Canadian freshwater. Their ‘Conservation: Small Project Award’ category honours
- [A Watershed Win: Watersheds Canada’s Fish Habitat Project Receives Prestigious Conservation Award](https://watersheds.ca/a-watershed-win-watersheds-canadas-fish-habitat-project-receives-prestigious-conservation-award/) - October 17, 2025 — A major win for walleye conservation has landed the most prestigious award ever for Watersheds Canada, the 23-year-old national conservation charity that inspires community-wide involvement in logistically, and often physically, challenging habitat restoration work, even in the wintertime. Last night, at the Water Canada Awards, in Toronto, Ontario, Watersheds Canada staff
- [Cyanobacteria and Public Health](https://watersheds.ca/cyanobacteria-and-public-health/) - by Paige Jessup, Climate Change Resiliency Intern Despite its name, blue-green algae is not actually algae - it is a type of bacteria called cyanobacteria that lives in fresh and marine water. Most species of cyanobacteria are unicellular and photosynthetic, meaning they use sunlight to produce their own food. Blue-green algae can reproduce rapidly in
- [The Effects of Septic Pollution on Biodiversity](https://watersheds.ca/the-effects-of-septic-pollution-on-biodiversity/) - by Paige Jessup, Climate Change Resiliency Intern The loss of biodiversity in freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems has been a growing issue for freshwater communities. Run-off from improperly installed or unmaintained septic systems are one of the ways that untreated wastewater gets into freshwater bodies. Things like cracks in the tank can also cause nutrients from
- [Hidden Dangers: How Could your Septic System be Affecting Water Quality](https://watersheds.ca/hidden-dangers-how-could-your-septic-system-be-affecting-water-quality/) - by Paige Jessup, Climate Change Resiliency Intern Our septic systems are often something that are out of sight and out of mind. Some people may not even know what a septic system is, especially if you live in a city or town that has a wastewater treatment plant. No matter where you live, we should
- [Septic Systems – Public Perception and Awareness Survey](https://watersheds.ca/septics-survey/) - Return back to the Septic System Education Toolkit by clicking here!
- [Cyanobacteria - Public Perception and Awareness Survey](https://watersheds.ca/cyanobacteria-survey/)
- [History of Cyanobacteria (Blue-Green Algae) in Canadian Waters](https://watersheds.ca/history-of-cyanobacteria/) - by Paige Jessup, Climate Change Resiliency Intern Cyanobacteria, or “blue-green algae”, are one of the old living organisms on earth, evolving from a group of microbes approximately 2.7 billion years ago. Cyanobacteria are thought to be the cause of one of Earth's mass extinctions called “The Great Oxygenation Event” which took place between 2.4-2.1 billion
- [A Home for Fish: The Benefits of In-Water Woody Debris](https://watersheds.ca/a-home-for-fish-the-benefits-of-in-water-woody-debris/) - by Jonathan Miller, Riparian Habitat Restoration Intern Freshwater ecosystems such as lakes, rivers, and the smallest of streams are complex environments that support a rich diversity of life. They are home to fish, turtles, macroinvertebrates, and much more. Among the many factors that influence these ecosystems, in-water woody debris plays a large part. In-water woody
- [The Consequences of Cyanobacteria on Freshwater Ecosystems](https://watersheds.ca/the-consequences-of-cyanobacteria-on-freshwater-ecosystems/) - by Paige Jessup, Climate Change Resiliency Intern Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, is one of the oldest living organisms on earth and are generally unicellular. These organisms are photosynthetic and require sunlight, water, and nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus to reproduce. Due to current land use practices along Canada's shorelines, humans are opening
- [Business Supporter Spotlight: Swish](https://watersheds.ca/business-supporter-spotlight-swish/) - Responsible care of our water resources involves not only limiting the runoff of pollutants into our waterways, but also ensuring that the products that we use in our day-to-day lives are kind to the environment to begin with. By doing the latter, we strive to eliminate these problems before they even begin – stopping the
- [Lake-Friendly Pool or Hot Tub Alternatives](https://watersheds.ca/lake-friendly-pool-or-hot-tub-alternatives/) - by Paige Jessup, Climate Resilience Intern There are a lot of concerns when it comes to standard pools and hot tubs, such as their cost and health impacts. What about their environmental impacts? Most hot tubs and pools contain chlorine, bromide, salt, and algaecides which can be harmful to the environment, especially when not disposed
- [Hot Tubs, Pools, and Freshwater: How to Properly Drain Your Water](https://watersheds.ca/hot-tubs-pools-and-freshwater-how-to-properly-drain-your-water/) - by Paige Jessup, Climate Resilience Intern Improperly draining your hot tub or pool can not only result in large fines but can also potentially result in the wastewater ending up in local freshwater bodies and making them inhabitable for some freshwater species. Most municipalities have guidelines for disposing pool or hot tub water, which can
- [Saltwater Pools, Hot Tubs, and Freshwater: Is this the Best Alternative?](https://watersheds.ca/saltwater-pools-hot-tubs-and-freshwater-is-this-the-best-alternative/) - by Paige Jessup, Climate Resilience Intern Many pool and hot tub owners want to get away from the harsh chemicals like chlorine, bromide, and algaecides by switching to saltwater. Using saltwater is appealing because it is believed to be gentler on skin, hair, eyes, and swimwear, and pool-grade salt costs less to maintain than a
- [Best Practices for Municipalities: Reducing Pollution from Pools and Hot Tubs  ](https://watersheds.ca/best-practices-for-municipalities-reducing-pollution-from-pools-and-hot-tubs/) - by Paige Jessup, Climate Resilience Intern Wastewater Management Planning Without a reliable place to dispose of contaminated water, all other best management practices will not have the maximum effort they could. That is why it is important for a municipality to develop a Safe and Reliable Wastewater Treatment System. In order to have a successful
- [Changing your Shoreline Practices: Using The Natural Edge’s Native Plant Database](https://watersheds.ca/changing-your-shoreline-practices-using-the-natural-edges-native-plant-database/) - by Paige Jessup, Climate Resilience Intern What do you value most about your cottage? Maybe you like to go there and fish or swim, get out on the boat, or enjoy the quiet once you leave the city. In 2021, Watersheds Canada and Canadian Wildlife Federation conducted a survey to find out what shoreline property
- [Walleye or Pickerel - The Great Debate](https://watersheds.ca/walleye-or-pickerel-the-great-debate/) - My father and I have had a friendly debate going for a number of years regarding the name of a particular sport fish. And as my career in fish habitat restoration has established, I am finding this is common debate amongst many Ontario outdoors people. As a long time fisherman, my father has always referred
- [How is Your Pool Affecting Freshwater Ecosystems?](https://watersheds.ca/how-is-your-pool-affecting-freshwater-ecosystems/) - by Paige Jessup, Climate Resilience Intern Pool and hot tubs are wonderful for recreational activity, aerobic activity and physical therapy, relaxation, and social gatherings. However, they may not be so wonderful for your local freshwater. Pools and hot tubs contain chlorine, bromide, salt, and algaecides which can be dangerous to the adjacent environment. Pool and
- [Watersheds Canada National Conference 2025](https://watersheds.ca/wc-conference-2025/) - WHEN: May 1-2, 2025 WHERE: Haliburton, ON WHAT HAPPENED: You immersed yourself in Watersheds Canada’s inaugural conference where inspiration leads to action! We gathered together fellow lake and watershed enthusiasts for an engaging experience that took you beyond the conference room and into the field with hands-on stewardship project demonstrations and interactive seminars. Passionate lake leaders
- [The Way Forward for People and Waterfowl](https://watersheds.ca/the-way-forward-for-people-and-waterfowl/) - by Christopher Dennison, Municipal Policy Intern In the previous blog, we discussed the importance of shoreline land-use practices that maintain specific habitat characteristics (namely the planting and maintenance of native vegetation) to support waterbirds. But how can one ensure that the shoreline vegetation chosen will be appropriate for local species? Indeed, the type of shoreline vegetation
- [Wildflower Gardens: Petal-Powered Machines of Change ](https://watersheds.ca/wildflower-gardens-petal-powered-machines-of-change/) - by Ty Fischer, Freshwater Health Coordinator Certain environmental actions that we can take have much more profound impacts than we might realize, stretching far beyond the immediate spatial or temporal scale to touch entire communities. Creating a wildflower garden is the perfect example of such an action. With just a few hours of work, almost anyone
- [Pool and Hot Tub Pollution - Public Perception and Awareness Survey](https://watersheds.ca/pool-and-hot-tub-pollution-public-perception-and-awareness-survey/)
- [Economic Value of Green Infrastructure](https://watersheds.ca/economic-value-of-green-infastructure/) - by Chantal Lefevre, Natural Edge Regional Coordinator Green infrastructure, which encompasses a range of natural and semi-natural designed features, provides ecological, economic, and social benefits. It has gained increasing attention in recent years as a key strategy for achieving sustainable and climate change resilient environments. In Canada, where natural resources are abundant, green infrastructure has
- [Apply now for a Love Your Lake microgrant!](https://watersheds.ca/lyl-microgrant-2025/) - Watersheds Canada and Canadian Wildlife Federation are happy to report that Love Your Lake is offering microgrants again this year! Full information and the application form can be found on the Love Your Lake website: https://loveyourlake.ca/microgrant-program/ Who can apply? This is open to lake groups and associations who have participated in Love Your Lake. Lakes must
- [Waterfowl on the Shore](https://watersheds.ca/waterfowl-on-the-shore/) - by Christopher Dennison, Municipal Policy Intern The wellbeing of waterbirds is naturally intertwined with the health of shoreline and riparian ecosystems; the Ribbon of Life that surrounds our freshwater lakes and rivers. In North America, ecologists have posited that the riparian zone (the transitional area of land directly adjacent to a watercourse) supports a much
- [The Haunting Truth of Ghost Gear and Shoreline Garbage](https://watersheds.ca/the-haunting-truth-of-ghost-gear-and-shoreline-garbage/) - by Alana Coulombe, Education programs administrator You have finally landed the big catch and then snap! The line breaks. Frustrated, you take a moment to think about what could have been, the photos you could have taken. You think nothing of the interaction except that you need a new line and bob. This interaction is
- [It's all about the WHY!](https://watersheds.ca/why-do-we-do-the-work-we-do/) - by Barbara King, Executive Director I can honestly say I LOVE My job. How many people can say that about where they work? We have such a great team and workplace atmosphere here at Watersheds Canada… I wake up excited for my day. We actually have it backwards in the office and call it “Happy
- [Process and Maple Syrup](https://watersheds.ca/process-and-maple-syrup-2/) - by Barbara King, Executive Director I just had the most amazing experience from the simple task of making maple syrup from the trees around our property with our kids. It was an incredible feeling to make our own syrup even though it took 2 days, 5 trees, 10 hours of boiling, a million questions from
- [A Love Your Lake success story: City of Greater Sudbury, Ontario](https://watersheds.ca/a-love-your-lake-success-story-city-of-greater-sudbury-ontario/) - Article submitted by representatives from Nepahwin Lake Watershed Stewardship Group and Long Lake Stewardship Committee: In our collective desire to enjoy access to our City of Greater Sudbury, Ontario urban lakes, waterfronts have been manicured and hardscaped leading to the decline of lake water quality. Many of our urban lakes are suffering, with increased phosphorus
- [Invasive Species Awareness Week 2025 recap](https://watersheds.ca/invasive-species-awareness-week-2025-recap/) - Did you know Invasive Species Awareness Week (ISAW) takes place each year during the last week of February? The goal of the week is for individuals and groups to come together to increase awareness about the impacts of invasive species and how we can protect natural spaces from them and their impacts. Each year, Watersheds
- [Spotlighting a Freshwater Hero this World Water Day](https://watersheds.ca/spotlighting-a-freshwater-hero-this-world-water-day/) - March 22nd is World Water Day! For this special occasion, we want to highlight an equally special someone who has made a powerful commitment to conserving freshwater here in Canada: one of our esteemed monthly donors, Bonny. “My volunteer work with our lake association started with one issue, and then it grew from there!” she
- [5 Webinars To Introduce You To Freshwater Management](https://watersheds.ca/5-webinars-to-introduce-you-to-freshwater-management/) - by Paige Jessup, Climate Resilience Intern Our precious freshwater resources are coming under an increasing amount of pressure. Increasing urbanization and agriculture are encroaching on freshwater habitats. With a growing global human population, there is an increased demand for energy and resources meaning more pollution and obstructed water flows. Warming global temperatures are also causing
- [Planting Your Own Pollinator Garden](https://watersheds.ca/planting-your-own-pollinator-garden/) - by Samantha Cunningham, Ecological technician 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
- [Get to Know your Pollinators ](https://watersheds.ca/get-to-know-your-pollinators/) - 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
- [6 ressources éducatives et gratuites en Français pour apprendre sur la nature tout en restant chez soi.](https://watersheds.ca/6-french-education-resources/) - by Monica Seidel, Digital Communications and Marketing Intern Nous avons récemment produit 7 ressources en ligne en anglais sur la nature. Compte tenu de leur succès auprès des enseignants et des parents qui les utilisent pour enseigner de la maison, nous avons produits 6 de ces ressources en français. Elles sont disponibles gratuitement en ligne
- [7 Free Educational Resources to Help You Teach about Nature at Home](https://watersheds.ca/7-education-resources/) - by Monica Seidel, Digital Communications and Marketing Intern Helping with homework and trying to maintain a schedule for children during these challenging times is something we understand many parents are struggling with at this time. Now, with the likelihood of extended school closures, parents and educators are scrambling to find educational and free resources to
- [Daniel and Susan Gottlieb Lake Stewardship Grant Helps Community Freshwater Initiatives](https://watersheds.ca/daniel-and-susan-gottlieb-lake-stewardship-grant-helps-community-freshwater-initiatives/) - In 2019, Watersheds Canada, in partnership with the Daniel and Susan Gottlieb Foundation, granted volunteer groups with funding support towards projects that had a positive impact on the health of lakes and rivers and involved their lake community. Here are 5 activity updates: Shoreline Naturalization Program & Lake Protection Booklets The Cavendish Community Ratepayers Association
- [The Many Health Benefits of Nature](https://watersheds.ca/nature-health-benefits/) - Written by: Chlöe Lajoie, 2017 Spring is here! That means that it’s time to start spending more of your days outdoors. Have you ever noticed how you feel better, both mentally and physically, when you spend some time in nature? There’s a reason for that: there are many health benefits related to being outside. Vitamin
- [The importance of community](https://watersheds.ca/the-importance-of-community/) - by Jane Pangilinan, Digital Engagement Technician Have you heard of the Freshwater Stewardship Community? The Freshwater Stewardship Community is a virtual community that aims to connect people around Canada who care about freshwater issues. Launched and led by Watersheds Canada, the Freshwater Stewardship Community welcomes you to network, connect, learn, and act. The Freshwater Stewardship
- [Spawning beds on ice](https://watersheds.ca/spawning-beds-on-ice/) - Watersheds Canada supporters lead fish conservation this winter. As winter puts on a freeze on green action projects, Watersheds Canada is warming up for another lake stewardship initiative on the hardwater. Loads of washed stone is set to be trekked across a frozen eastern Ontario lake this February, as volunteers will haul, shovel, and rake
- [You Can Give Our Lakes and Rivers a Fighting Chance](https://watersheds.ca/you-can-give-our-lakes-and-rivers-a-fighting-chance/) - Healthy Shorelands Tackle the Climate Crisis Extreme weather alerts sent more waterfront communities running for safety this past year. Perhaps nowhere else in Canada is the aftermath of wildfires, derechos, floods, and other symptoms of climate change more obvious than on lakes and rivers. Support for Watersheds Canada addresses climate change impacts on habitat, water
- [The Importance of Dark-Sky Reserves for Wildlife and Ecosystems](https://watersheds.ca/lightpollutionblog3/) - by Andres Clavier, Freshwater Stewardship Education Intern Light pollution is excessive or misdirected artificial light and it is stealing our starry nights, posing substantial threats to wildlife and our own well-being. This has spurred a global push for 'Dark-Sky Reserves' — sanctuaries free from light pollution. Why are these areas crucial for both nature and
- [Watersheds Canada announces National Conference, May 1-2, 2025](https://watersheds.ca/watersheds-canada-announces-national-conference-may-1-2-2025/) - Watersheds Canada is thrilled to announce the inaugural Watersheds Canada National Conference, taking place May 1-2, 2025 in Haliburton, Ontario. Immerse yourself in speaker presentations, group activities, plenary sessions, networking time, and outdoor interactive demonstrations, all to lead inspiration into action! This event will bring together fellow lake and watershed enthusiasts for an engaging experience
- [Macroinvertebrate Biomonitoring: Small Creatures, Big Impacts](https://watersheds.ca/macroinvertebrate-biomonitoring-small-creatures-big-impacts/) - by Ty Fischer, Riparian Health Restoration Intern The word “spineless” is often used to describe something weak or purposeless. There is a certain irony, then, that macroinvertebrates – organisms that are “spineless” by their very nature – are actually vitally important in helping humans understand and monitor the health of freshwater ecosystems. Macroinvertebrates are any
- [Launch of road salt education toolkit](https://watersheds.ca/launch-of-road-salt-education-toolkit/) - Watersheds Canada is launching our latest resource toolkit: tackling road salt pollution. As snow falls on our streets and highways each winter, road salts are generously used to ensure safe travel. This is especially true with the unseasonably warm winter we are currently experiencing across Canada as freezing rain and rain fall instead of snow, and
- [May all your Christmases be green](https://watersheds.ca/may-all-your-christmases-be-green/) - 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
- [Western Chorus Frog: A Captivating New Voice in the Conservation Song](https://watersheds.ca/western-chorus-frog-a-captivating-new-voice-in-the-conservation-song/) - by Ty Fischer, Riparian Health Restoration Intern In conservation biology, the term “charismatic megafauna” refers to the largest and most iconic species of animal, such as wolves and grizzly bears, for which threats to their population status attract a disproportionate amount of the public’s attention (Krause, Robinson, 2017). Historically, these species were the core focus
- [Welcoming in the season of giving!](https://watersheds.ca/welcoming-in-the-season-of-giving/) - by Jane Pangilinan, Digital Engagement Technician The season of giving has arrived! As you wonder what to give your friends and family as gifts during the holidays, did you know you can create a positive impact while doing so? A great gift to give is one that gives back to communities. While there are so
- [Top 5 Ways to Support Winter Wildlife](https://watersheds.ca/top-5-ways-to-support-winter-wildlife/) - 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,
- [Seed and Genetic Diversity](https://watersheds.ca/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
- [Pollinator Champion Feature – Alan and Joyce](https://watersheds.ca/pollinator-champion-feature-alan-and-joyce/) - After retiring and moving to the countryside seven years ago, Alan and Joyce are enjoying the peace and quiet of life on the water. Having both grown up going to cottages for vacation, they now are able to spend more time in nature and enjoy the panoramic views with little evidence of people around. “Natural
- [Helping Your New Plants Thrive](https://watersheds.ca/helping-your-new-plants-thrive/) - by Samantha Cunningham, Ecological technician 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
- [Federal funds support Watersheds Canada efforts to restore shorelines in St. Lawrence River AOC](https://watersheds.ca/federal-funds-support-watersheds-canada-efforts-to-restore-shorelines-in-st-lawrence-river-aoc/) - January 24, 2025 - An exciting opportunity is available for waterfront property owners in the St. Lawrence River (Cornwall/Akwesasne) Area of Concern (AOC) who want to naturalize their shoreline using native trees, shrubs, grasses, and wildflowers. A healthy shoreline buffer can help protect a property from erosion and flood damage, while also creating habitat for
- [Stay Natural, Stay Safe around Ticks](https://watersheds.ca/stay-natural-stay-safe-around-ticks/) - by Samantha Cunningham, Ecological technician 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
- [Our favourite memories of 2019](https://watersheds.ca/our-favourite-memories-of-2019/) - As our team continues to work on big plans for 2020, we can't help but remember all of the amazing projects we were able to take part in last year. Here are just a few of our favourite memories from 2019: "I loved working with the Muskrat Watershed Council, Algonquin College Waterfront Campus, and all
- [Why is blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) becoming more prominent?](https://watersheds.ca/why-is-blue-green-algae-cyanobacteria-becoming-more-prominent/) - by Alana Coulombe, Education programs administrator The frequency and magnitude of blue-green algal blooms continue to rise across Canada and are expected to be further exacerbated by the impacts of climate change and traditional land use practices. The rise in cyanobacterial blooms brings about health, social, economic, and supply problems in the availability of Canada’s
- [Lakeside Living: Changing the Paradigm](https://watersheds.ca/lakeside-living/) - Written by Heather Murphy, 2017 Lakeside living is a dream that many Canadians aspire to attain at some stage in their lives. By putting in the time with their 9-5 jobs, working hard and saving their money, maybe just maybe, they might be lucky enough to own a little slice of heaven on a lake
- [How to Soften a Shoreline Property](https://watersheds.ca/how-to-soften-a-shoreline-property/) - 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,
- [News release – How Farren Lake residents created 29 new fish homes on their lake](https://watersheds.ca/news-release-farren-lake-fish/) - Westport, Ontario – Members of the Farren Lake Property Owners Association (FLPOA) and their families knew fish homes were disappearing on their lake and that they had to take action. “Our cottage has been in the family for 58 years, since the mid 1960’s,” says Paul Seidl, FLPOA Board member (Director). “I have practically grown
- [Farren Lake residents lead second fish habitat project in twelve months](https://watersheds.ca/farren-lake-fish-2023-news-release/) - Westport, ON – Having undertaken two fish habitat restoration projects in a twelve-month period, it is safe to say that the residents of Farren Lake are looking out for their local fish species. In early August 2023, members of the Farren Lake Property Owners Association (FLPOA) gathered for the second time to create and deploy
- [Managing Water Runoff](https://watersheds.ca/managing-water-runoff/) - by Samantha Cunningham, Ecological technician Landscaping your property can be as simple or as complex as you need. Landscaping is a diverse science, meaning that there are many different directions you can research, so we are going to focus on the sub-discipline of landscape engineering. For us this entails assessing what the current state of
- [Attention to detail](https://watersheds.ca/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
- [Watersheds Canada to help restore shorelines across 5 provinces in 2023-2024](https://watersheds.ca/watersheds-canada-to-help-restore-shorelines-across-5-provinces-in-2023-2024/) - May 8, 2024 – Watersheds Canada is proud to deliver its program, The Natural Edge, in partnership with over twenty other grassroots organizations across Canada in 2023-2024. This two-year project to increase shoreline resilience and community engagement is generously funded by the RBC Foundation. Vegetated buffers are effective in removing over 90% of runoff when compared
- [Planning for our Shorelands Session III](https://watersheds.ca/pfos-session-3/) - Please use the following policies to inform your recommendations to the assigned scenario: Lanark Highlands Shoreline Policies Download the background information for the two scenarios: Waterfront Development Scenarios 2021 PDFs Discussion Questions 1) How is the integrity of the shoreline impacted? 2) Given the provided Lanark Highlands standards, what would your recommendation be? 3) Given
- [Media Release - Pine Lake – In-Water Fish Habitat Enhancement](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-pine-lake/) - MEDIA RELEASE October 15, 2019 Watersheds Canada and the LUSH Charity Pot Pine Lake – In-Water Fish Habitat Enhancement Funding from the LUSH Charity Pot has allowed for the in-water fish habitat enhancement in Pine Lake, about 60 minutes west of Perth in the Township of North Frontenac, Ontario. The project was completed thanks to
- [Media Release - Kashwakamak Lake – In-Water Fish Habitat Enhancement](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-kashwakamak-lake/) - MEDIA RELEASE October 10, 2019 Watersheds Canada and the LUSH Charity Pot Kashwakamak Lake – In-Water Fish Habitat Enhancement Funding from the LUSH Charity Pot has allowed for the in-water fish habitat enhancement in Kashwakamak Lake, about 90 minutes west of Perth in the Township of North Frontenac, Ontario. The project was completed thanks to
- [Meet Your Butterfly Neighbours](https://watersheds.ca/meet-your-butterfly-neighbours/) - by Monica Seidel, Digital Communications and Marketing Intern Did you know that there are over 300 butterfly species in Canada, with 150 in Ontario alone? While most people are familiar with the iconic monarch and swallowtail butterflies, there are many other species fluttering around that would love to meet you. Great spangled fritillary You may
- [Introducing 2020 Gifts for Freshwater](https://watersheds.ca/introducing-2020-gifts-for-freshwater/) - Are you starting to think about your Christmas and holiday shopping? Are you looking for gifts that make a local impact for your freshwater environment? This year you can make a symbolic adoption to help freshwater ecosystems and species recover and thrive through habitat restoration projects led by Watersheds Canada and local community groups across
- [Happy World Snake Day!](https://watersheds.ca/world-snake-day-2021/) - by Samantha Cunningham, Ecological technician While we think of snakes primarily as predators, they are both predators and prey! This makes them a key component of a healthy, balanced ecosystem. These slithery serpents help keep pest populations under control by eating insects, rodents, and small mammals. They are nature's pest control and they are particularly
- [Watersheds Canada to launch Canada’s first and only natural shoreline restoration software](https://watersheds.ca/rbc-press/) - MEDIA RELEASE JUNE 14, 2021 Watersheds Canada – In partnership with ten other grassroots organizations across Canada, Watersheds Canada is proud to announce the national launch of the Natural Edge Program thanks to generous funding by the RBC Foundation through RBC Tech for Nature. Vegetated buffers are effective in removing over 90% of runoff when compared
- [Finding Optimism this International Youth Day](https://watersheds.ca/international-youth-day-2021/) - by Nathaniel Holloway, Environmental technician From the point of view of a twenty-one year old student, the future seems uncertain. While I am an optimistic person, it is hard to ignore the constant flow of warnings from scientists. These warnings make me worry for the survival of our lifestyle and—much more importantly—future generations. However, humans
- [Press Release - New Collaboration at the Maitland Tower to Inspire Environmental Restoration & Reconnection](https://watersheds.ca/maitland-tower-press-release/) - Originally posted on the Door Number One website. Maitland, Ont. – On August 20, 2021, DoorNumberOne.org, a new local not-for-profit, is kicking off the Dirty Paws Ecological Restoration project at the Maitland Tower site on the beautiful St. Lawrence River between Brockville and Prescott. The project will be a collaboration between many community partners including the
- [Watersheds Canada nominated for 2021 Nature Inspiration Award](https://watersheds.ca/nature-inspiration-award/) - Watersheds Canada is honoured to be a finalist for the Nature Inspiration Awards in the Not-For-Profit (Small and Medium) category. The Nature Inspiration Awards recognize individuals and organizations whose specific projects encourage Canadians to take an interest in natural history, create links with nature and contribute to its preservation. Specifically, our innovative Natural Edge Program, the only
- [5 Webinars to Introduce You to Freshwater Fish Conservation](https://watersheds.ca/5-webinars-to-introduce-you-to-freshwater-fish-conservation/) - by Paige Jessup, Climate Resilience Intern Freshwater fish are diverse and an important part of our economy. Not only are fish an important food source to people around the world but they are also important to our economies, providing jobs to over 60 million people (Orr, 2021). Fish are also an important part of our
- [Press release – Fish Habitat team wrap up walleye spawning bed restoration on Big Clear Lake, Ontario](https://watersheds.ca/press-release-fish-habitat-team-wrap-up-walleye-spawning-bed-restoration-on-big-clear-lake-ontario/) - On February 6, 2025, members of Watersheds Canada’s Fish Habitat team met with 16 volunteers from local groups to undertake the final stage of the restoration of a walleye spawning bed on Big Clear Lake, Ontario. In partnership with Big Clear Lake Association, Shabot Obaadjiwan First Nation, and G.E. Matson and Sons Construction, 17 tonnes
- [On the Ice Road to Restoration: Reflecting on our recent Walleye Habitat Enhancement Project](https://watersheds.ca/on-the-ice-road-to-restoration-reflecting-on-our-recent-walleye-habitat-enhancement-project/) - by Ty Fischer, Freshwater Health Coordinator, Watersheds Canada Though it covers Canadian lakes like a big frozen shield, the thick winter ice is not a hindrance to the delivery of Watersheds Canada’s Fish Habitat restoration projects – it is an asset. This is especially true for spawning bed enhancement projects, like the one that took
- [$52,200 OTF Grant Increases Shoreline Protection in Cataraqui Watershed](https://watersheds.ca/52200-otf-grant-increases-shoreline-protection-in-cataraqui-watershed/) - Perth, ON – On Friday, local MPP John Jordan celebrated with the team at Watersheds Canada regarding the $52,200 Capital grant they received from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). The grant was used to address a community need by working with local partners to re-naturalize the shorelines and protect the health of lakes
- [New Watersheds Canada, Boyne River Keepers partnership brings The Natural Edge to Manitoba](https://watersheds.ca/watersheds-canada-boyne-river-keepers-partnership-press-release/) - February 20, 2025 - Watersheds Canada and the Boyne River Keepers will work to improve shoreline health and resiliency along the Boyne River, Manitoba by naturalizing shoreline properties in 2024-2025. The project, funded by Manitoba Habitat Conservancy and RBC Foundation, will result in 1,500m2 of riparian habitat restored and the planting of 750 native trees,
- [4 new resources to help protect our wetlands this World Wetlands Day](https://watersheds.ca/4-new-resources-to-help-protect-our-wetlands/) - by Jonathan Miller, Riparian Habitat Restoration Intern World Wetlands Day (February 2nd) is once again upon us! Wetlands, which include marshes, swamps, fens, bogs, and even lakes, provide a wide variety of essential ecosystem services and functions critical to the planet's well-being. Wetlands most notably improve water quality by filtering excess nutrients or toxins from
- [Watersheds Canada to partner with Crowe Valley Conservation Authority to restore Ontario shorelines in 2024-2026](https://watersheds.ca/watersheds-canada-to-partner-with-crowe-valley-conservation-authority-to-restore-ontario-shorelines-in-2024-2026/) - Watersheds Canada is bringing its flagship shoreline restoration and re-naturalize program, The Natural Edge, to the Crowe Valley Watershed in Ontario in 2024-2026. This program expansion is possible thanks to a new partnership with the Crowe Valley Conservation Authority and local community lake associations, and funding by Canada Water Agency through the Government of Canada’s
- [Salt Tolerant Native Plants](https://watersheds.ca/salt-tolerant-native-plants/) - by Alana Coulombe, Education programs administrator Why do some plants along roadways have brown or scorched leaves or needles in the spring? Although road salts are widely used to combat icy conditions during the winter, the environmental consequences are often not obvious until the spring. Road salt sprays can harm nearby vegetation by penetrating leaf
- [Road Salt Stress Alters Freshwater Food Webs](https://watersheds.ca/road-salt-stress-alters-freshwater-food-webs/) - by Alana Coulombe, Education programs administrator Nature sustains itself through food web interactions that support long-term ecological balance. Every organism is part of multiple food chains that overlap and connect to form larger food webs within a single ecosystem. Each web is woven with lines that trace the potential flow of nutrients and energy from
- [10 Days of Nature Based Winter Activities](https://watersheds.ca/10-days-of-winter-2025/) - by Paige Jessup, Climate Resilience Intern Christmas does not have to be the only thing you look forward to this winter! There are lots of ways you can enjoy the outdoors and spend time with your family. Here is a list of 10 things you can do this winter to get you started on connecting
- [Will you help Canada's lakes and rivers before year-end?](https://watersheds.ca/year-end-2024/) - We know you are receiving many messages from charities this time of year, especially because of the Canada Post strike. Like other charities, Watersheds Canada has seen a decrease in the number of donations received this month. We know this is because of the strike, but also because there are many things in life that
- [Lake Links 2015](https://watersheds.ca/lakelinks-2015/) - "Lake Fisheries Management" The 14th annual Lake Links Workshop took place Saturday October 24th, 2015 from 8:30am - 3:30pm at Perth Civitan Hall, 6787 County Road 43, Perth, Ontario. The workshop focused on strategies for protecting the fisheries in our lakes with a special focus on fish habitat restoration. Discussions focused on how to keep your
- [Lake Links 2014](https://watersheds.ca/lakelinks-2014/) - "Lake Communities in Action" In preparation for the 2014 Lake Links workshop in Perth, a survey was conducted to learn about the experience of lake associations in preparing and implementing their lake plans. The theme of the workshop was 'Lake Communities in Action' and the responses from the survey provided significant insight about the benefits,
- [Lake Links 2010](https://watersheds.ca/lakelinks-2010/) - "Celebrating Our Advances" Bringing Lake Links back to its roots, the focus of the 9th Annual Lake Links Workshop, held on October 30th, 2010 at the Perth Civitan Hall, was on networking and information sharing. The theme ‘Celebrating our Advances’ was the backdrop for learning more about each other, including projects, successes and challenges, and
- [Lake Links 2016](https://watersheds.ca/lakelinks-2016/) - “Every Waterfront Matters, You Can Make a Difference” Saturday October 22, 2016 from 8:30-3:15 pm Perth Civitan Hall, 6787 County Road 43, Perth, Ontario. The 15th annual workshop explored trends in the ownership of shoreline properties in Eastern Ontario, with a special focus on what those trends may mean in terms of fostering lake stewardship
- [Lake Links 2006](https://watersheds.ca/lakelinks-2006/) - "Land Use Planning and Shoreline Restoration" The 5th Annual Lake Links Workshop was held on October 21st, 2006 at the Perth and District Collegiate Institute in Perth, Ontario. With representation of government agencies (municipalities, provincial and federal organizations), non-government and volunteer organizations, along with representation from 22 lake associations, there were over 50 participants in
- [Lake Links 2007](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2007/) - "Municipal Planning & Aquatic Vegetation" The 6th Annual Lake Links Workshop was held on October 20th, 2007 at the Perth and District Collegiate Institute in Perth, Ontario. With representation from over 16 government agencies (municipalities, provincial and federal organizations), non-government and volunteer organizations, along with representation from 22 lake associations, there were over 60 participants
- [Lake Links 2008](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2008/) - "Exploring the Lakeshore Capacity Assessment" The 7th Annual Lake Links Workshop was held on October 25th, 2008 at the Perth Lions Hall at the Perth Fairgrounds. Over 75 participants from various lake groups throughout the region learned about the effects of artificial lighting on aquatic systems and explored the Lakeshore Capacity Assessment tool that can
- [Lake Links 2009](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2009/) - "Measuring and Monitoring" Ontario’s lakes are facing more and more challenges because of increased development and greater use. It is vital that we understand our impacts on the health of our lakes and learn how to monitor and reduce those impacts. The theme of the 8th Annual Lake Links Workshop, held on Saturday, October 24,
- [Lake Links 2011](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2011/) - "The Lake Capacity Model" On Saturday October 29, 2011 at the Perth Civitan Hall over 160 participants gathered for a timely discussion on: The Lake Capacity Model, watershed planning tools and successful lake development case studies. View the Event Summary. View the Information Package, including the poster, agenda, and additional workshop information. View or download
- [Lake Links 2012](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2012/) - "Climate Change - How to Build Resiliency in our Lakes" The 11th Annual Lake Links Workshop, Climate Change - How to Build Resiliency in our Lakes, was held at the Perth Civitan Hall on Saturday, October 20th, 2012. Over 100 attendees, including landowners, environmental group representatives, municipal staff members, and lake association members, partook in
- [Lake Links 2013](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2013/) - "The Lake Landscape: From Political to Practical" The 2013 Lake Links Workshop was held in Perth, Ontario, on Saturday, October 19th. View or download the Workshop Details. About the 2013 Lake Links Workshop – What’s it all about? This year’s workshop focused on strategies for community engagement. Representatives from local lake associations provided examples of
- [Thank you for a great year!](https://watersheds.ca/thank-you-for-a-great-year/) - We want like to thank you for a great year. Have a look at what we have been up to, and what we are looking forward to in 2017! As 2016 draws to a close, it provides us with an opportunity to look back at everything we have accomplished. It has been a fantastic year
- [Three Summers with Watersheds Canada](https://watersheds.ca/three-summers-with-watersheds-canada/) - Written By Emily Bacon I have had the privilege of working for Watersheds Canada for the past three summers while studying at Queen’s University. I am writing this blog, reflecting on my three wonderful summers, on my very last day with them. I have grown and learned so much which has truly been a one
- [Water - "Change is Upon Us"](https://watersheds.ca/water-change-is-upon-us/) - Written By: Barbara King Water is vital to life and well-being. We know that water resources have a finite capacity to support development and land use changes. 95% of the worlds water is saltwater 5% is freshwater. Of this freshwater: 69% is found in ice 30% is found in groundwater less than 1% of the
- [Microbeads - Not a Very Tiny Piece of Jewellery](https://watersheds.ca/microbeads-not-a-very-tiny-piece-of-jewellery/) - Written By: Brent MacDougall In today's realm of environmental awareness, the majority of citizens would be unlikely to discard plastic directly into our fresh and oceanic water systems. However, unknowingly ordinarily environmentally conscious individuals may be polluting our water systems through washing their face, brushing their teeth or scrubbing their body. The reason individuals may
- [Cities In Bloom](https://watersheds.ca/cities-in-bloom/) - Written by: Jorden Keeley, 2017 Due to the nature of our work here at Watersheds Canada, we are constantly surrounded by an abundance of plants, fish, and wildlife. Admittedly, often times we take our surroundings for granted. Visiting city centres often helps us to appreciate our unique work environment, by allowing us to recognize the
- [Relationships and Water](https://watersheds.ca/relationships-and-water/) - Written by: Barbara King, 2017 I spend a lot of time working with small groups and individuals that are working to change the way that people act towards our freshwater and over the past 15 years have come to the conclusions that we need to change the way that we talk to people about freshwater
- [A Letter of Appreciation to All Volunteers](https://watersheds.ca/thanks-to-volunteers/) - Written by: Brent MacDougall, 2017 Ever worked too hard, and too long, for no pay? Thanks for volunteering! I would like to take a moment to deviate from our usual style of posting to thank all of the wonderful volunteers who devote personal time to worthy causes. Whether it be the lake resident who devotes
- [Enhancing Fish Habitat with Woody Debris](https://watersheds.ca/enhancinghabitat/) - Written by: Melissa Dakers, 2017 Here Fishy, Fishy, Fishy! The Benefits of Adding Woody Debris to Enhance Fish Habitat With the warmer weather upon us, many Canadians start dreaming about heading to the lake. Visions form of standing on the dock or heading out in the boat and casting a line, hoping to catch the big
- [Water, Water Everywhere!](https://watersheds.ca/watereverywhere/) - Written by: Melissa Dakers, 2017 As we approach the mid-summer point of 2017, I keep thinking to myself, what a difference from last year! With very little precipitation and hot summer days, 2016 was one of the biggest droughts that Eastern Ontario has experienced. Seeing the rivers and creeks running dry and thinking about all
- [A Summer Spent Surveying](https://watersheds.ca/alexa/) - Written by: Alexa Mantifel We lounged in our chairs moving slowly along a shoreline, noticing blue herons, baby map turtles, lots of fish and insects, enjoying the sun, the breeze and our summer job. There are never any complaints when you spend all summer doing something you love with people who love it too!
- [Shoreline Summer](https://watersheds.ca/shoreline-summer/) - Written by: Brady Beaupre, 2017 Cruising out on the open water having the warm summer breeze blow by as the boat putts along the shore. What a wonderful way to spend some my summer at work. During the summer of 2017 I received the opportunity to work for Watersheds Canada as a student participating in
- [The Importance of Collaboration for Charities & Non-Profits](https://watersheds.ca/collaboration/) - Written by: Barbara King, 2018 Collaboration Best Practices from Watersheds Canada’s Experience In working in the environmental sector, especially where there are so many different groups, agencies, and organizations working on various issues, collaboration is critical to finding solutions to big picture problems that are currently taking place in our country. Working in collaboration has
- [I Spy With My Little Eye](https://watersheds.ca/i-spy/) - Written By: Melissa Dakers, 2018 Walleye Spawning - “I Spy with My Little Eye!” After a long winter, the signs of spring are finally upon us, although a little delayed. Spring is a time for renewal, and as the ice leaves the lakes, water temperatures warm, frogs begin to sing, the walleye begin their annual
- [A Message of Hope from Coast to Coast: Celebrating Terry Fox Day](https://watersheds.ca/terry-fox-day-2021/) - by Samantha Cunningham, Ecological technician Celebrated across Canada each fall, Terry Fox is a national icon. During the Marathon of Hope in 1980, Fox set out to run across Canada to raise awareness and money for cancer research. This cross-Canada journey took place over 143 days, 5,373 kilometres, and 6 provinces, leading Fox to run
- [What I've Learned as an Environmental Technician](https://watersheds.ca/et-blog1/) - by Nathaniel Holloway, Environmental technician I am a second year Environmental Studies major at Carleton University who has experience volunteering—and now working—with Watersheds Canada. My volunteering experience made conservation feel more accessible than I had previously thought, while my work experience only cemented this notion. Being an Environmental Studies major, the focus of my degree
- [Field Notes: Restoring Shorelines Using Native Plants](https://watersheds.ca/et-blog2/) - Ian is an Environmental Technician this summer with Watersheds Canada. He shares his experience so far in the role: "As a student coming out of college, I am more than pleased to work with Watersheds Canada. I began my journey with Watersheds as a field-placement in my program at Sir Sandford Fleming College, which
- [Septic Systems: they may be out of sight, but they shouldn’t be out of mind!](https://watersheds.ca/septic-systems-they-may-be-out-of-sight-but-they-shouldnt-be-out-of-mind/) - Guest blog 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
- [20 years of Watersheds Canada](https://watersheds.ca/20-years-of-watersheds-canada/) - by Robert Pye, Executive Director Planting now for our next 20 years “The best time to plant a tree is twenty years ago. The next best time is now.” Appropriately enough, the best time for Watersheds Canada to share this action-now-adage is this year as we are celebrating our 20th anniversary. It’s humbling to reminisce
- [10 Days of Winter Fun!](https://watersheds.ca/10-days-of-winter-fun/) - 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
- [Celebrate World Wetlands Day with these 4 Resilient Shorelines Resources!](https://watersheds.ca/celebrate-world-wetlands-day-with-these-4-resilient-shorelines-resources/) - 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
- [This World Water Day, see the amazing fish habitat projects you have already helped complete!](https://watersheds.ca/wwd23-lsc/) - This World Water Day, I want to introduce you to a place very special to me: Long Sault Creek. Because of individual donor support and local community groups, Long Sault Creek was transformed and restored. In total, 60 native tree species were planted, and as they grow, they will provide decades of shade along Long
- [Youth engagement and You](https://watersheds.ca/youth-engagement-and-you/) - by Jane Pangilinan, Digital Engagement Technician Community involvement is important to building connections with nature. That is why the Ottawa Faith Community Capacity Building (OFCCB) initiative, a collaboration between Greening Sacred Spaces and Watersheds Canada, is made to connect 6 faith communities with the environment and with each other. Watersheds Canada and Greening Sacred Spaces
- [Ontario Biodiversity Council welcomes Watersheds Canada](https://watersheds.ca/ontario-biodiversity-council-welcomes-watersheds-canada/) - by Alana Coulombe, Education programs administrator Watersheds Canada is honoured to be accepted as a member of the Ontario Biodiversity Council! The Ontario Biodiversity Council was created in 2005 and represents conservation and environmental groups, industry associations, Indigenous organizations, natural history institutions, academia, and government agencies. Watersheds Canada and the Ontario Biodiversity Council recognize the
- [The Doug Smith story](https://watersheds.ca/the-doug-smith-story/) - by Robert Pye, Executive Director Toward Doug Smith’s end of life, he asked Watersheds Canada to tell his story. “As I grew up, I spent a lot of time near water. I loved the water,” said Doug, as his wife, Janet Taylor, sat by his side. Together, they shared fond cottage memories in a heartfelt
- [Big news! Water 50/50 is here.](https://watersheds.ca/water-5050-is-here/) - by Nicole Dubé, Freshwater Health Coordinator Do you love to play in the water? If your summer was anything like mine, it was full of cannonballs off the dock, rope swings into the river, and paddle boards across a back bay. There's nothing better than freshwater fun, right? Even as fall approaches, I am excited
- [A gift of a greener earth: symbolically adopt a turtle, salamander, osprey, or sandpiper!](https://watersheds.ca/a-gift-of-a-greener-earth/) - by Ty Fischer, Riparian Health Restoration Technician With cooler temperatures approaching, you might be starting to think about the holiday season and everything that comes with it – skiing or snowboarding, sipping warm apple cider by the fire, snacking on gingerbread and other sweets, and of course, exchanging gifts with your friends and family. If
- [Riparian Zones and Climate Change](https://watersheds.ca/riparian-zones-and-climate-change/) - by Nathaniel Sneyd-Dewar, Riparian Habitat Restoration Intern Shoreline properties are located on the frontline of climate change as many environmental functions and processes are pronounced at this critical area for biodiversity and the water cycle. Shoreline properties exist in the riparian area (within 30m of the shoreline), which is a vital region for ecosystem and environmental
- [Why ‘Soft’ Shorelines Are More Beneficial to your Shoreline Property](https://watersheds.ca/why-soft-shorelines-are-more-beneficial-to-your-shoreline-property/) - by Alana Coloumbe, Education programs administrator Shorelines are the interface between land and bodies of water that are important for both humans and wildlife. Shorelines facilitate the exchange of resources between aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, and therefore affect the functioning and ecological condition of both ecosystems (Wensink & Tiegs, 2016). Recent human developments for industrial,
- [The Dynamic Coastlines of the Laurentian Great Lakes – Part 1](https://watersheds.ca/the-dynamic-coastlines-of-the-laurentian-great-lakes-part-1/) - by Ty Fischer, Riparian Health Restoration Intern Reaching up to hundreds of kilometers wide and hundreds of meters deep, it is perhaps not surprising that the Laurentian Great Lakes share many geological similarities with saltwater oceans. They have high winds, large waves, and even complex current systems that in many ways make them dynamically closer
- [The Dynamic Coastlines of the Laurentian Great Lakes – Part 3](https://watersheds.ca/the-dynamic-coastlines-of-the-laurentian-great-lakes-part-3/) - by Ty Fischer, Riparian Health Restoration Intern This is part 3 of a series on the Great Lakes. To read the first part, please click here; part two is found here. Erosion is a common problem on coastal bluffs and beaches on the Great Lakes’ coastlines. Despite the ubiquity of hardened shoreline structures in the
- [Watersheds Canada weaves a web on World Water Day](https://watersheds.ca/wc-weaves-a-web-wwd24/) - by Monica Seidel, Communications and Fundraising Manager at Watersheds Canada Have you ever had the moment where you are out for a walk and you see the magical glint of a spider’s web? You go out of your way to avoid it, only to find yourself somehow still with a strand attaching itself to you.
- [Canada Prepares to Ban Single-Use Plastics](https://watersheds.ca/canada-prepares-to-ban-single-use-plastics/) - by Abbey Unsworth, Summer Student - Natural Edge and Love Your Lake Canada has recently announced a ban on single-use plastics as part of a strategy to combat plastic pollution. The ban is set to take effect by 2021 and will most likely include items such as plastic bags, straws, cutlery, and take-out containers, but
- [How Your Donation Will Protect Canada's Freshwater this Giving Tuesday](https://watersheds.ca/gt2020/) - This year came with extraordinary challenges, especially for environmental charities like Watersheds Canada. Granting organizations have redirected funding, and group size limits prevented many volunteers from participating in our spring and fall planting seasons. We know that you care about your lake, river, or tributary. As fall comes to an end, and we think back
- [Today You Can Make a Year-End Impact For Canada's Freshwater!](https://watersheds.ca/2020-yearend/) - You can help protect Canada's freshwater. Help us continue to make a difference with your year-end donation before December 31st! Make My Year-End Donation Today! Members of the Quinte Conservation, Cherry Valley Park Association, and Watersheds Canada planted 140 native plant species along Cherry Valley Park’s shoreline. Your support in 2020 has resulted in on-the-ground, grassroots
- [Media release - Watersheds Canada and Quinte Conservation to help protect and enhance habitat for Pugnose Shiner fish, a Species at Risk](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-dfo1/) - MEDIA RELEASE
- [Media Release - "Future of our Shores" report highlights need for more shoreland best-practices and education in Ontario](https://watersheds.ca/media-future-of-our-shores/) - MEDIA RELEASE May 3, 2021 Future of our Shores report highlights need for more shoreland best-practices and education in Ontario Watersheds Canada – In partnership with a volunteer project steering committee of the Planning for our Shorelands project, Watersheds Canada is excited to announce the availability of the project’s first report, The Future
- [An opportunity on the shore… reflecting on my time with Watersheds Canada and “Planning For our Shorelands”](https://watersheds.ca/an-opportunity-on-the-shore/) - by Christopher Dennison, Municipal Policy Intern Everyone knows the old saying, “these things just happen for a reason”. I have entertained long debates with friends and family over this old adage, and I still wonder whether I could prescribe to such a saying when the global community finds itself at the mercy of a deadly,
- [The Problem with Plastics](https://watersheds.ca/the-problem-with-plastics/) - by Nathaniel Holloway, Environmental technician Plastic has become central to the way humans package, ship, and consume products. This includes everything from electronics, to medications, to baby toys. Plastic was—and still is in some contexts—considered a miracle product which is waterproof, hard-wearing, and easily malleable. However, we have allowed this material with a myriad of
- [Using Benthic Macro-invertebrates as a Way to Assess Aquatic Pollution Levels](https://watersheds.ca/benthic-macroinvertebrates-blog/) - by Ian Grist, Environmental technician If you are a property owner with a river, creek, or stream nearby, you may be concerned or curious about the health and pollution levels in the water. There are ways you can find out the contaminate levels present in your water by what aquatic organisms you observe. In particular,
- [5 ways to get involved this World Rivers Day!](https://watersheds.ca/world-rivers-day-2021/) - 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
- [My Journey to the South: The Fall Migration of a Prothonotary Warbler](https://watersheds.ca/world-migratory-bird-day-2021/) - 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
- [Know, and love, your lake!](https://watersheds.ca/know-and-love-your-lake/) - 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
- [There's still time to give your year-end gift for Canada's freshwater!](https://watersheds.ca/year-end-2021/) - 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
- [There's still time to give your year-end gift for Canada's freshwater!](https://watersheds.ca/theres-still-time-to-give-your-year-end-gift-for-canadas-freshwater/) - 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
- [10 Ways to Enjoy Nature this Winter](https://watersheds.ca/10-ways-winter/) - 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
- [“Non-native earthworms: Entering the second wave of invasion” webinar Q&A responses](https://watersheds.ca/non-native-earthworms-webinar-qa/) - Q1: I have read about the spread of vermiculture worms sold for composting into natural areas in the US as a result of being released (with disastrous results). Are these the same species? A1: I’ve personally never heard of jumping worms being used for vermiculture, so my suspicion is that these would be different species.
- [Media Release - OTF Helps Watersheds Canada Revitalize Quinte Watershed](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-otf-helps-watersheds-canada-revitalize-quinte-watershed/) - MEDIA RELEASE March 15, 2022 Quinte, ON – The shorelines of the Quinte Watershed have been given a recent facelift with the completion of a 3-year shoreline naturalization project. In 2019, the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) awarded Watersheds Canada a $350,400 Grow grant to restore the Quinte Watershed’s shorelines with native plants.
- [Media Release - June 16th, 2022 “Sustainable Waterfront Planning Through Reconciliation”](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-june-16th-2022-sustainable-waterfront-planning-through-reconciliation/) - An Online Workshop to discuss Municipal-Indigenous Relationships and Freshwater Protection Join us for a collaborative and interactive workshop, Sustainable Waterfront Planning Through Reconciliation on Thursday June 16th, 2022, from 1:00-2:30pm EST as a free online webinar. Our survey of nearly 70 Municipal Councillors and Planners across Ontario found that most municipalities are satisfied with their
- [The Benefits of Vegetated Riprap](https://watersheds.ca/the-benefits-of-vegetated-riprap/) - by Alana Coulombe, Education programs administrator 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
- [Algae: Pond Scum or Essential?](https://watersheds.ca/algae-pond-scum-or-essential/) - by Alana Coulombe, Education programs administrator Algae occur naturally in ponds, lakes, rivers, and streams, growing well in sunlight, warm temperatures, and the presence of nutrients. Freshwater algae can be 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
- [Watersheds Canada welcomes new Executive Director, Robert Pye!](https://watersheds.ca/wc-welcomes-new-executive-director/) - The Board of Directors of Watersheds Canada (WC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Robert Pye as our new Executive Director effective August 8th, 2022. Robert joins Watersheds Canada after 25 years with the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) where he was responsible for business strategies in his most recent role as
- [Municipal election time - a river day runs through it](https://watersheds.ca/municipal-election-time-a-river-day-runs-through-it/) - by Robert Pye, Executive Director World Rivers Day reminds the world why Canadians should be proud of our watersheds. Over 8,000 river systems define our nation as well as our small towns. The mighty MacKenzie, Yukon, St. Lawrence, Fraser, and thousands of other rivers are the precious places that Watersheds Canada wants people to think
- [Go with the Flow: Rivers and Streams](https://watersheds.ca/go-with-the-flow-rivers-and-streams/) - by Alana Coulombe, Education programs administrator Naturally occurring freshwater lakes, rivers, and streams are connected through a dynamic network. Freshwater lakes are typically immobile bodies of water surrounded by land on all sides. Rivers consist of currents that flow down a channel and connect to larger water bodies. Like rivers, streams contain flowing water and
- [Let Us Prioritize Freshwater this Ontario Election Season!](https://watersheds.ca/lets-prioritize-freshwater-this-election-season/) - by Darlene Coyle, Environmental Policy and Planning Lead at Watersheds Canada Keeping up the momentum from our Engaging Elected Municipal Officials to Protect our Freshwater webinar, now is the time to act! Candidates across Ontario are campaigning for the upcoming municipal election on October 24th and it is up to you to bring freshwater issues
- [Invasive Aquatic Species: The invaders we can and cannot see](https://watersheds.ca/invasive-aquatic-species-the-invaders-we-can-and-cannot-see/) - by Christopher Dennison, Municipal Policy Intern Most lakeshore residents in Ontario have likely heard of at least one aquatic invasive species and the significant threats they pose to freshwater ecosystems. Some are hard to miss. Silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) (not currently established in Ontario but at risk of entering the Great Lakes) are known for
- [News Release – “The Science Behind Vegetated Shoreland Buffers” reviews the scientific literature supporting shoreland naturalization](https://watersheds.ca/news-release-the-science-behind-vegetated-shoreland-buffers-reviews-the-scientific-literature-supporting-shoreland-naturalization/) - Threats to freshwater ecosystems and waterfront residents are growing in intensity and regularity across Canada, requiring solutions that are informed by science. Thankfully, there is a wealth of scientific evidence that vegetated shoreland buffers can mitigate pollution, prevent shoreline erosion, create wildlife habitat, and strengthen resilience to the impacts of climate change. Watersheds Canada is
- [Choose your own adventure with the Ottawa Faith Community Capacity Building Program](https://watersheds.ca/choose-your-own-adventure-with-the-ottawa-faith-community-capacity-building-program/) - 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
- [Continuing Momentum from Ontario’s Municipal Elections: One Year Later](https://watersheds.ca/continuing-momentum-from-ontarios-municipal-elections-one-year-later/) - 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
- [Protecting Canada's Water Quality with Native Plants: My Time at Watersheds Canada](https://watersheds.ca/protecting-canadas-water-quality-with-native-plants/) - 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
- [Natural Edge site visits are now open across Eastern Ontario!](https://watersheds.ca/natural-edge-site-visits-2023/) - Did you know that having a natural shoreline with a variety of plants helps prevent erosion, protects water quality, improves biodiversity, reduces flood water damage, and looks beautiful? Watersheds Canada is able to help landowners in the Mississippi watershed, Cataraqui watershed, and St. Lawrence River Area of Concern (Cornwall) take action to protect their shoreline
- [News Release - Two waves of federal funding a signal of hope for Canada’s freshwater future](https://watersheds.ca/news-release-two-waves-of-federal-funding-a-signal-of-hope-for-canadas-freshwater-future/) - March 29, 2023 - Watersheds Canada is encouraged by the Government of Canada’s focus on freshwater health as announced in the new federal budget. First, it was announced there will be a Canadian government investment of $420 million over ten years to support the Great Lakes (announced last Friday), and second, a federal commitment to
- [How Native Plants Help with Erosion Control](https://watersheds.ca/how-native-plants-help-with-erosion-control/) - 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
- [News release – “Sustaining our Freshwater” pilot program enhances freshwater health in Municipalities of South Frontenac, Tweed](https://watersheds.ca/news-release-sustaining-our-freshwater-pilot-program-enhances-freshwater-health-in-municipalities-of-south-frontenac-tweed/) - June 15, 2023 — Thanks to the “Sustaining Our Freshwater” project, the Municipalities of South Frontenac and Tweed will see lake health and shoreline environmental benefits for decades to come. This two-year pilot project led by Watersheds Canada, Quinte Conservation, Cataraqui Conservation, Dog & Cranberry Lakes Association, the Municipality of South Frontenac, the Municipality of
- [Building Wildfire Resilience to Reduce the Risk of Losses](https://watersheds.ca/building-wildfire-resilience-to-reduce-the-risk-of-losses/) - by Alana Coulombe, Education programs administrator Canadians have experienced a devastating start to spring this year, with almost every province and territory being upturned by wildfires. Emergency Preparedness Minister Bill Blair recently announced nearly 440 fires have burned 3.9 million hectares of forest which is more than 13 times the 10-year average for this time
- [How do you “Love Your Lake”?](https://watersheds.ca/how-do-you-love-your-lake/) - by Alana Coulombe, Education programs administrator What does it mean to love your lake? Loving your lake as a place to enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, and exploring requires a commitment to care for and respect its natural wonders. You can love your lake in many different ways! As freshwater stewards, we can show our love
- [10 successful years for Love Your Lake](https://watersheds.ca/10-successful-years-for-love-your-lake/) - by Alana Coulombe, Education programs administrator Participating in Love Your Lake is a great way to gauge the health of your lake and become a steward of your local freshwater! Over the past 10 years, Watersheds Canada and the Canadian Wildlife Federation have been proud to support waterfront communities coast to coast across Canada through
- [Media Release - Love Your Lake celebrates its 10th anniversary](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-love-your-lake-celebrates-its-10th-anniversary/) - Watersheds Canada and the Canadian Wildlife Federation are thrilled to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Love Your Lake program! Love Your Lake is a shoreline evaluation program conducted for waterfront communities across the country. The program invites lake associations and organizations to volunteer their lake as participants in the program. If accepted, every property
- [Wildfire Cycles and Ecosystem Regeneration in Canada](https://watersheds.ca/wildfire-cycles-and-ecosystem-regeneration-in-canada/) - by Andres Clavier, Freshwater Stewardship Education Intern Canada’s diverse ecosystems, stretching from temperate rainforests to arid grasslands, host an extraordinary variety of flora and fauna. Among these ecosystems, wildfires are a recurring phenomenon, casting a shadow of destruction and regrowth across the landscape (Buma & Wessman, 2011). While the sight of raging wildfires invokes images
- [Watersheds Canada now accepting intents of interest for Canada-wide climate change resilient shorelands project!](https://watersheds.ca/watersheds-canada-now-accepting-intents-of-interest-for-canada-wide-climate-change-resilient-shorelands-project/) - Watersheds Canada is accepting intents of interest from volunteer-led waterfront and nature-focused groups to participate in an exciting new, nationwide project funded by the RBC Foundation through RBC Tech for Nature. This project will run for two years and will focus on getting shoreline renaturalization tools and resources in the hands of groups already leading
- [“Sustaining Our Freshwater” for today and tomorrow](https://watersheds.ca/sustaining-our-freshwater-for-today-and-tomorrow/) - by Alana Coulombe, Education programs administrator By understanding the importance of Canada’s freshwater supply, we can work together to protect this natural resource for generations to come. Canada holds one-fifth of the world’s total freshwater resources yet only about 7% of this global supply is renewable freshwater (Environment and Climate Change Canada [ECCC], 2013). Additionally,
- [Join the Monarch Butterfly on its epic journey from Canada to Mexico!](https://watersheds.ca/join-the-monarch-butterfly-on-its-epic-journey-from-canada-to-mexico/) - by Andres Clavier, Freshwater Stewardship Education Intern Every year in the fall, millions of monarch butterflies embark on a long-distance journey, migrating thousands of kilometres from North America to California and even central Mexico. This incredible phenomenon is an essential event for our environment as these butterflies are important players in pollination and food chain
- [The Eastern Red-Backed Salamander and Our Shared Shoreline Responsibility](https://watersheds.ca/the-eastern-red-backed-salamander-and-our-shared-shoreline-responsibility/) - by Andres Clavier, Freshwater Stewardship Education Intern World Habitat Day, October 2nd, offers a moment to reflect on the interconnectedness of life within our Canadian landscapes. To commemorate, let us delve into the fascinating world of a prolific Canadian salamander species: the Eastern Red-Backed Salamander (Plethodon cinereus). This amphibian can teach us much about the
- [What's your favourite river?](https://watersheds.ca/whats-your-favourite-river/) - by Chloe Lajoie, Natural Edge Program Manager Today is a special day - today is World Rivers Day. As the program manager of Watersheds Canada’s program, The Natural Edge, I have helped landowners, students, community partners and volunteers, and municipalities plant over 104,000 native species to bring nature back to severely degraded shorelands. That work
- [Out on the Lake: Reflecting on my Experience with the Love Your Lake Program](https://watersheds.ca/out-on-the-lake/) - by Ty Fischer, Riparian Habitat Restoration Intern Lakes are to Ontarians what the Rocky Mountains are to British Columbians – places of humbling grandeur, of ineffable richness and diversity, and of truly iconic and symbolic importance for our province. It is very fitting, then, that Watersheds Canada and Canadian Wildlife Federation's lake shoreline assessment program
- [Congratulations to the Water 50/50 winners!](https://watersheds.ca/congratulations-to-the-water-50-50-winners/) - Thank you to everyone for supporting Watersheds Canada's first-ever 50/50 charity lottery event! Because of you, we are able to bring nature back to our shores, fund fish spawning habitat, and promote hands-on lake and river stewardship programs. Environmental commitment and generosity always inspires the Watersheds Canada team, especially over the past six weeks of
- [A watershed moment: When perfect strangers connect on the values of conservation](https://watersheds.ca/a-watershed-moment-when-perfect-strangers-connect-on-the-values-of-conservation/) - by Robert Pye, Executive Director “Any luck?” The question was clear but a visual on whomever asked it was not. In mid-retrieve, my spinner bait lost momentum when I paused to reply in the direction of the inquiry. I knew it came from the cottage that was set back from a vegetated shoreland and in
- [10 Days of Winter Activities with Your Family!](https://watersheds.ca/10-days-of-winter-2024/) - by Ty Fischer, Riparian Habitat Restoration Intern It is no secret that winters can be harsh here in Canada. Between the cold weather and the lack of sunlight, this is the time of year that many choose to stay inside and cozy up to the fire with a hot beverage and a good book. Next
- [Wetlands: How Marshes and Swamps Can Save the World](https://watersheds.ca/wetlands-how-marshes-and-swamps-can-save-the-world/) - by Ty Fischer, Riparian Habitat Restoration Intern Addressing an issue as complex and multifaceted as climate change is a daunting task. The scale of the problem is so large, the impacts are so profound, and the need to solve current problems versus the need to prevent future ones from appearing is a tough balance to
- [Watersheds Canada Recognizes World Wetlands Day](https://watersheds.ca/watersheds-canada-recognizes-world-wetlands-day/) - Perth, ON – As wetlands cross people’s mind on World Wetlands Day (February 2, 2024), perhaps it is because, at some point in life, they have personally experienced one of the greatest ecological wonders of the world. Canada is home to twenty-five percent of the world’s wetlands. Unfortunately, however, wetlands continue to be degraded or
- [Reclaiming our Refuse: The Power of Community Shoreline Cleanups](https://watersheds.ca/reclaiming-our-refuse/) - by Ty Fischer, Riparian Health Restoration Intern In many ways, the shorelines of our lakes and rivers provide windows into the health of the freshwater systems themselves. For instance, lakes and rivers with dense vegetative buffers on their shorelines are more likely to have better water quality and healthier aquatic plant and animal communities, as
- [Light pollution: A Hidden Threat to Biodiversity, our Night Sky, and our Health](https://watersheds.ca/lightpollutionblog2/) - by Andres Clavier, Freshwater Stewardship Education Intern We live in a world constantly surrounded by artificial light, but we may not realize how much it affects us and the planet. Light pollution is a serious problem that goes beyond obscuring our view of the stars; it also has significant impacts on human and natural ecosystems.
- [How to Choose Dark-Sky-Friendly Lights](https://watersheds.ca/lightpollutionblog1/) - by Andres Clavier, Freshwater Stewardship Education Intern Light pollution is becoming an increasing concern for urban and waterfront dwellers, wildlife enthusiasts, astronomers, and eco-conscious individuals. While we all enjoy the conveniences of over-lit streets, properties, and cities, the unintended consequence has been a sky filled with artificial glow that disrupts wildlife and ecosystems. What if
- [Worldwide Initiatives to Combat Light Pollution](https://watersheds.ca/lightpollutionblog4/) - by Andres Clavier, Freshwater Stewardship Education Intern Light pollution, often overlooked, is an environmental concern that affects our night skies, ecosystems, and even human health. Artificial light pollution disrupts the natural order of ecosystems, affects the behaviour of nocturnal animals, and disrupts human sleep cycles. Globally, nations are taking notice and implementing measures to combat
- [Cultivating Community through Urban Gardens and Initiatives](https://watersheds.ca/cultivating-community-through-urban-gardens-and-initiatives/) - by Nicole Dubé, Freshwater Health Coordinator In the urban landscape of Ottawa, Ontario, greening initiatives are taking root—one small garden at a time. Across the city, community groups joined together to embark on greening projects. From pollinator gardens to rain gardens and community plots, these projects offer many benefits to both ecosystems and the communities
- [Building a Greener Future: Shining a Light on Community Green Audit and Retrofit Projects](https://watersheds.ca/building-a-greener-future-shining-a-light-on-community-green-audit-and-retrofit-projects/) - by Nicole Dubé, Freshwater Health Coordinator Whether you are looking to install new heating units, enhance water efficiency, or upgrade to LED lighting, there are many changes, big or small, that you can make to help protect the environment. Learn about the benefits of green audits and retrofits, how different Ottawa, Ontario area organizations have
- [Sowing the Seeds of Change with Community Gardens](https://watersheds.ca/sowing-the-seeds-of-change/) - by Ty Fischer, Riparian Health Restoration Intern Community gardens can vary widely in their purpose and design, but all of them share one common goal: to bring people together in creating and maintaining a thriving greenspace that benefits both humans and native wildlife. That’s why building a community garden is one of the greening projects
- [Enter to win a beautifully hand-crafted Belted Kingfisher!](https://watersheds.ca/kingfisher-contest/) - Enter a contest to win a beautifully hand-crafted, new decorative Belted Kingfisher carving generously donated to Watersheds Canada by Canadian artist, Mike Reader: Belted Kingfisher are a common visitor to river and shoreline areas, nesting along banks and hunting almost exclusively on aquatic prey. You may have had the treat of hearing the rattling call
- [Fireworks and Freshwater Ecosystem Health](https://watersheds.ca/fireworks-and-freshwater-ecosystem-health/) - by Nathaniel Sneyd-Dewar, Riparian Habitat Restoration Intern Fireworks have long been a spectacular sight for people worldwide, but outside of the sounds and visuals, the effects of dispersed particles are less considered. While once reserved for national holidays and other major occasions, fireworks have become increasingly affordable, available, and used by families and friends in
- [Press Release - Watersheds Canada supports stewardship actions on 6 Ontario lakes](https://watersheds.ca/press-release-lyl2024/) - July 10, 2024 - Another successful year for the Love Your Lake program is well underway, with Watersheds Canada ensuring over 1,100 waterfront properties on six freshwater lakes across Eastern Ontario will see environmental benefits for years to come. Love Your Lake, a program coordinated and delivered by Watersheds Canada and the Canadian Wildlife Federation,
- [Going fishing for new habitat projects](https://watersheds.ca/going-fishing-for-new-habitat-projects/) - Watersheds Canada went on a fishing trip and landed a catch we are proud of. It is not a fish, though – it is better! We reeled in grant dollars for our plans to push dozens of brush bundles overboard in more back bays, drop offs, and lake points. These woody debris structures will be
- [PFAS: The ‘Forever Chemicals’](https://watersheds.ca/pfas-the-forever-chemicals/) - by Alana Coulombe, Education programs administrator What are PFAS? Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large, complex group of over 4,700 human-made substances used in a wide range of consumer products (Health Canada, 2023). PFAS molecules consist of a chemically stable chain of linked carbon and fluorine atoms (National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
- [The 'King' of Nature](https://watersheds.ca/kingfishers-nature-connection-priceless/) - by Robert Pye, Executive Director Gather around kids. This Gen X'er wants to tell you about the days when Canadians opened up their wallets to spot special birds. Four decades ago, the Bank of Canada introduced its birds of Canada series that featured snowy owls on our $50 dollar bills, loons on $20’s, and ospreys
- [Book Your Shoreline Restoration in the St. Lawrence River Area of Concern, Ontario!](https://watersheds.ca/ne-2024-st-lawrence-aoc/) - Watersheds Canada is seeking waterfront property owners in the St. Lawrence River (Cornwall) Area of Concern to naturalize their shoreline using native grasses, trees, shrubs, and wildflowers. A healthy shoreline buffer can help protect your property from erosion and flood damage, create habitat for wildlife, and improve water quality. It has been thirty-seven years since
- [Soil: More Important and Fascinating Than It Seems](https://watersheds.ca/soil-more-important-and-fascinating-than-it-seems/) - by Ty Fischer, Riparian Health Restoration Intern You may not often offer it much consideration when you are walking over it or planting in it, but soil is a wonderfully complex and extraordinarily important thing that both us and our native wildlife owe much of our lives to. Soil is necessary for the growth of
- [Small Businesses: Freshwater Conservation Heroes](https://watersheds.ca/small-businesses-freshwater-conservation-heroes/) - by Ty Fischer, Riparian Habitat Restoration Intern Canada is a country known for its freshwater. It is a part of our identity, with many of us forming foundational memories in and around our rivers and lakes throughout our lives. With twenty-percent of the global supply of freshwater held within our borders (Government of Canada, 2018),
- [Shoreland resilience under a changing climate](https://watersheds.ca/shoreland-resilience-under-a-changing-climate/) - by Alana Coulombe, Education programs administrator Canada’s freshwater is under threat against the impacts of climate change, in addition to shoreland development and traditional land use practices. Increasing climate change pressures and associated hydrologic changes will alter where, when, and how precipitation falls and water flows. This, in turn, will impact the quantity, quality, and
- [Aug. 23rd webinar: "Ever wonder how to... naturalize your shoreline"](https://watersheds.ca/riwebinar/) - Join us on August 23rd as we host a Facebook live event with the St. Lawrence River Institute! Living by the water is wonderful – the peace and quiet, the beauty of the water, and the enjoyment of spending time with family and friends along its shores are but a few of its many
- [Congratulations to Watersheds Canada's Grand Prize winner, Dianna!](https://watersheds.ca/2024-50-50-announcement/) - Congratulations to Watersheds Canada's Grand Prize winner, Dianna S. of Wellington! Thank you to everyone who supported our charity lottery in 2024. The 5050 pot grew to $4462 -- the biggest prize ever awarded by our organization. The draw took place on the morning of November 2, 2024. "The only prize I ever won before
- [The Benefits of Aquatic Vegetation for Wildlife and Freshwater Health](https://watersheds.ca/the-benefits-of-aquatic-vegetation-for-wildlife-and-freshwater-health/) - by Ty Fischer, Riparian Health Restoration Intern Aquatic plants in our lakes and rivers are often referred to as ‘weeds’, and the use of this term shows how they are generally perceived by waterfront property owners – as a nuisance. This is because the vegetation can get tangled in boat motors, tickle the toes of
- [Watersheds Canada attends federal announcement of historic freshwater conservation funding](https://watersheds.ca/watersheds-canada-attends-federal-announcement-of-historic-freshwater-conservation-funding/) - September 23, 2024 -- As a shoreline restoration project leader, Watersheds Canada was proud to participate in the Government of Canada’s first official media conference for the Great Lakes Freshwater Ecosystem Initiative. The kick-off was held last Friday at the Freshwater Restoration Ecology Centre, along the banks of the Detroit River in the town of
- [“Hooked on Habitat: Sustainable Fisheries for the Future” - 2023 Lake Links in-person Workshop](https://watersheds.ca/hooked-on-habitat-sustainable-fisheries-for-the-future-2023-lake-links-in-person-workshop/) - Join us at our 22nd Annual Lake Links Workshop and first in-person workshop since Covid-19 began, “Hooked on Habitat: Sustainable Fisheries for the Future”, on Saturday, October 21st, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Perth Civitan Club (6787 Lanark County Rd 43, Perth, ON). Registration for this event $25 (includes lunch) and
- [3 Seasons in Review](https://watersheds.ca/3-seasons-in-review/) - by Ty Fischer, Riparian Health Restoration Technician One of the great things about working for Watersheds Canada is the variety of experiences you get across many different subject areas. Throughout my internship, I have been lucky enough to assist with everything from shoreline assessments, to fish habitat restoration projects, and everything in between. After such
- [The Dynamic Coastlines of the Laurentian Great Lakes - Part 2](https://watersheds.ca/the-dynamic-coastlines-of-the-laurentian-great-lakes-part-2/) - by Ty Fischer, Riparian Health Restoration Intern This is part 2 of a series on the Great Lakes. To read the first part, click here. With water level fluctuations operating on daily, seasonal, and annual cycles, and with frequent disturbances from high winds, large waves, seiches, and storms, the Laurentian Great Lakes are truly dynamic
- [Media release - By 2024, 3km of shoreline in St. Lawrence River Area of Concern to be restored by Natural Edge Program, Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, local partners](https://watersheds.ca/glpi-2022-media-release/) - March 3, 2022, Perth, Ontario – A new collaborative between Watersheds Canada, Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, Raisin Region Conservation Authority, River Institute, and Great River Network will restore shoreline health in the St. Lawrence River Area of Concern (AOC) from 2021 to 2024. Generously funded by the Great Lakes Protection Initiative – Areas of Concern
- [Lake Links celebrates its 20th anniversary! Will you be there?](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-celebrates-its-20th-anniversary-will-you-be-there/) - 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
- [Giving Back to Your Freshwater: Using The Natural Edge to create a resilient and beautiful shoreline](https://watersheds.ca/giving-back-to-your-freshwater-using-the-natural-edge-program-to-create-a-resilient-and-beautiful-shoreline/) - by Watersheds Canada This past summer, you might have enjoyed the company of a snapping turtle, green frog, calico pennant dragonfly, or Great Blue Heron along the shores of your favourite lake. That lake provided many benefits to you: memory-building with your family and friends, a connection to your culture and traditions, or economic and
- [Sleeping Through the School Year – A Turtle’s Strategy for Survival in Canada](https://watersheds.ca/sleeping-through-the-school-year-a-turtles-strategy-for-survival-in-canada/) - by Monica Seidel, Digital Communications and Marketing Intern Growing up, many of us would have welcomed the idea of sleeping in and missing school. Perhaps there was an early morning class or teacher you were not fond of, or you had to trek through the cold to get to school. If someone had offered you
- [Facturly trial](https://watersheds.ca/facturly-trial/) - Donate
- [Natural Edge - Spring Planting Success!](https://watersheds.ca/natural-edge-spring-planting-success/) - by Melissa Dakers, Lake Stewardship Coordinator As summer approaches and the spring planting season comes to a close, Watersheds Canada is proud to continue working towards shoreline rehabilitation through our Natural Edge program. This spring, we planted 21 sites on 9 lakes working alongside home and cottage owners in the rehabilitation and naturalization of their
- [Media Release - Lake Protection Workbook Now Available](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-lake-protection-workbook/) - MEDIA RELEASE August 13, 2019 Lake Links Planning Committee Lake Protection Workbook The "Lake Protection Workbook: A Self-Assessment Tool for Shoreline Property Owners” was created by the Lake Links Planning Committee, and funding from Watersheds Canada and the Daniel and Susan Gottlieb Foundation has made it possible for the publication and printing of the workbook.
- ["From Rain to Root: Slowing shoreline erosion with storm water management techniques" webinar on February 4th](https://watersheds.ca/from-rain-to-root-webinar/) - After an amazingly successful first year, we are excited to kick-off the second year of the Freshwater Stewardship Community with a presentation from Helping Nature Heal! Based out of Nova Scotia, Helping Nature Heal creates and restores beautiful, sustainable ecosystems that connect people with nature. Hear from founder Rosmarie Lohnes as she explores the benefits of
- [Media Release - Gifts to Restore Canada’s Freshwater](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-gift-catalogue/) - December 11, 2019 -- A local non-profit has created a new way for people to support freshwater resources and wildlife species. Watersheds Canada, based out of Perth, Ontario, has launched a gift catalogue fundraiser featuring symbolic adoptions and unique gifts that are perfect for the holiday season. "I was thrilled to support an important local
- [Media Release - Eastern Ontario lakes tested for presence of microplastics in local freshwater bodies ](https://watersheds.ca/microplastics-media-release/) - PDF download Microplastics Media Release “Once Plastics Are In the Environment, They Are Here To Stay” Eastern Ontario lakes tested for presence of microplastics in local freshwater bodies November 4, 2019 -- Summer sampling led by Jean-Pierre (JP) Thonney in three local watersheds determined that out of 270 samples from 9 inland lakes studied, artificial
- [Media Release - Love Your Lake Program Celebrates Expansion](https://watersheds.ca/lyl-2019-media-release/) - Media release Love Your Lake Program Celebrates Expansion April 9, 2020, Perth, Ontario – Watersheds Canada and the Canadian Wildlife Federation (CWF) are celebrating another successful year of their Love Your Lake program as it expanded to British Columbia in the summer of 2019.
- ["Wetlands, Waterways, and Waterbirds: The Boreal Connection” webinar - January 27th at 2pm EST](https://watersheds.ca/bc-webinar/) - Have you ever wondered why the huge flocks of birds near water disappear in the spring, and why they return in late summer? Join Natasha Barlow from Birds Canada as she shows how the water features on your property or in your neighborhood provide crucial, life-saving resources for thousands of birds, traveling to and from
- [Media release - Love Your Lake Program provides valuable stewardship resources to shoreline property owners across Canada](https://watersheds.ca/lyl2020-media/) - PDF download: "Love Your Lake Program provides valuable stewardship resources to shoreline property owners across Canada" January 8, 2021, Perth, Ontario – Shoreline property owners on eleven lakes across Canada benefitted from the Love Your Lake Program in 2020. Each property owner will receive
- [March 24th webinar: "Enhancing and Restoring Critical Fish Habitat in Ontario"](https://watersheds.ca/fish-webinar-2021/) - Watersheds Canada is excited to announce the fourth webinar in the Freshwater Stewardship Community's series - "Enhancing and Restoring Critical Fish Habitat". You can now watch the recording on our YouTube channel: With the steady increase in development along Canada’s lake and rivers, critical fish habitat is being compromised and degraded. In this free webinar,
- [Sept. 22/21 Shoreline Assessment webinar](https://watersheds.ca/webinar2/) - Have you ever wondered how to naturalize your shoreline? What should you and your family be looking for on your property that might impact water quality and wildlife habitat availability? Chloe and Monica from Watersheds Canada will walk you through a property assessment to show you what our staff look for on a property that
- [Media release - 2021 Lake Links Webinar Workshop](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2021-press/) - Media Release “Take the Challenge: Connecting what we say & actually do in order to protect our lakes and rivers” 2021 Lake Links Webinar Workshop October 6, 2021 - Join us at our 20th Annual Lake Links Workshop, “Take the Challenge: Connecting what we say & actually do in order to protect our lakes and
- [MEDIA RELEASE - Annual workshop equips individuals with tools to protect local freshwater health](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-lake-links-2021/) - November 12, 2021, Perth, Ontario – We all value our lakes and rivers, but taking steps to protect and enhance freshwater health can be overwhelming. How can we ensure these beautiful areas are protected for future generations of people and wildlife? The annual Lake Links workshop helped to equip over 80 live attendees with new
- [Media Release – Perth youth investigate local freshwater and wildlife issues through new Nature Discovery Backpack program](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-perth-backpack-program/) - April 12, 2022, Perth, Ontario – Students attending Youth Action Committee (YAK) Youth Services last year were given a free and educational opportunity to safely explore nature at their own pace as they learned about local species, freshwater health, and how to take local action. This was possible because of a pilot project called the
- [Media release – Greater Sudbury families connecting with nature through new Nature Discovery Backpack lending library program](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-greater-sudbury-families-connecting-with-nature-through-new-nature-discovery-backpack-lending-library-program/) - July 5, 2022, Greater Sudbury, Ontario – Families and individuals living across Greater Sudbury have access to new resources to connect with local nature and freshwater areas. Thanks to generous funding from TD Friends of the Environment Foundation, Watersheds Canada and Junction Creek Stewardship Committee have launched a lending library program with the Greater Sudbury
- [MEDIA RELEASE – Launch of new “Sustaining our Freshwater” pilot program for Municipalities of South Frontenac, Tweed](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-ea2023/) - March 20, 2023, Eastern Ontario — The “Sustaining Our Freshwater” two-year pilot project will engage municipal decision-makers, freshwater stakeholders, Conservation Authorities, small businesses, Indigenous communities, and waterfront property owners with science-based information and educational resources in an effort to sustainably naturalize and restore shorelines to protect and improve freshwater quality. This pilot project will include
- [News release - Quinte, Cataraqui watersheds benefit from nature-based solutions to protect freshwater health](https://watersheds.ca/news-release-ocef/) - April 18, 2023 -- There are many newly restored shorelands in the Quinte and Cataraqui watersheds in Ontario thanks to a project led by Watersheds Canada and Quinte Conservation. In total, 17 shoreline properties were restored with 4,000 native species of trees, shrubs, and wildflowers which have restored a total of 14,780 square meters of
- [Media Release - $74,100 OTF Grant Opens New Doors for Watersheds Canada](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-74100-otf-grant-opens-new-doors-for-watersheds-canada/) - MEDIA RELEASE April 21, 2023 Perth, ON – On the 21st of April, the Watersheds Canada team met with a representative of the Ontario Trillium Foundation to celebrate the $74,100 Resilient Communities Fund grant they received from the Foundation. The funds were used to conduct a waterfront land and property donation feasibility study. The study
- [“Amazing real-world learning” for students, Morrisburg residents restoring park’s waterfront](https://watersheds.ca/morrisburg-td-2022/) - Newly added native plants on the shores of the Morrisburg Waterfront Park will make the area more welcoming for local residents and the wildlife who utilize this ‘ribbon of life’. Shoreline ecosystems, or riparian zones, are especially valuable habitat for terrestrial and aquatic wildlife. The shoreline area includes the first 30-metres of land around a
- [Watersheds Canada’s Natural Edge Program nominated for prestigious conservation award](https://watersheds.ca/watersheds-canadas-natural-edge-program-nominated-for-prestigious-conservation-award/) - July 9, 2023 - At the 14th annual Water Canada Summit and Gala Awards, an event that brought about 300 water professionals and industry leaders this week to Ottawa, Watersheds Canada’s Natural Edge Program was nominated for the prestigious Conservation Award. Chloe Lajoie, the Natural Edge program manager, and Robert Pye, Watersheds Canada’s executive director
- [Press release - Year one of Ottawa Faith Community Capacity Building Program empowers local stewards](https://watersheds.ca/press-release-year-one-of-ottawa-faith-community-capacity-building-program-empowers-local-stewards/) - July 6, 2023 - In collaboration with Greening Sacred Spaces, Watersheds Canada is empowering six Ottawa and surrounding area faith communities with the tools and support they need to lead six freshwater stewardship projects in 2023-2024. As pillars in their community, faith groups can bring people together to engage in stewardship initiatives and take local
- [News release – Nature brought into the classroom for two Ottawa schools](https://watersheds.ca/news-release-nature-brought-into-the-classroom-for-two-ottawa-schools/) - August 30, 2023, Ottawa, Ontario – When there are barriers to bringing students to the lake, you need to find a way to bring the lake to them. This was the case for Watersheds Canada and its second year of delivering classroom programming for elementary students at two Ottawa inner-city schools, W.E. Gowling Public School
- [Media Release - Water 50/50 Champ Gives Back His Winnings to Watersheds Canada](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-water-50-50-champ-gives-back-his-winnings-to-watersheds-canada/) - October 27, 2023, Ontario – The grand prize winner of $4,135 in Watersheds Canada's first-ever 50/50 charity lottery event has made an outstanding commitment to further his steadfast support of freshwater stewardship programs. "I am going to turn my prize money back into support for shoreline restoration work," said Philip L., of Maitland, who was contacted immediately after the Water
- [Media Release - Watersheds Canada Launches Nationwide Light Pollution Campaign](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-light-pollution-campaign/) - Watersheds Canada, a leading national environmental charity, announces the launch of its education toolkit to address the increasing threat of light pollution on Canada's natural environments, wildlife, and human health. The education toolkit will highlight a comprehensive public awareness initiative to educate individuals, businesses, and municipalities about the detrimental effects of light pollution. Artificial lighting,
- [Can you discharge your boat’s greywater to lakes and rivers?](https://watersheds.ca/greywater-blog/) - by Andres Clavier, Freshwater Stewardship Education Intern Canada's commitment to preserving its pristine water bodies is reflected in its regulatory framework. The primary legislation governing boat discharge is the Vessel Pollution and Dangerous Chemicals Act. This law covers pollutants ranging from oil and chemicals to sewage from marine vessels. Under this Act, all vessels with
- [Give Dad the gift of fishing and wildlife memories at the lake](https://watersheds.ca/give-dad-the-gift-of-fishing-and-wildlife-memories-at-the-lake/) - Many of us have treasured memories of being on the shore of our favourite waterbody with our families. Listening to the haunting call of the Common Loon, looking for fireflies, and waiting to catch the next fish are some of the best parts of spending time at the lake. You can ensure these memories can
- [Pinegrove Productions helping show the impacts of on-land human activities on the underwater world](https://watersheds.ca/pp-whc/) - Watersheds Canada and Pinegrove Productions are excited to announce the development and delivery of a multimedia project to help families and youth see, discuss, and understand how human actions on lakes have significant ecological impacts above and below the water. Comparisons between developed and natural sites will be made as youth explore underwater impacts on
- [Fitting the world in a backpack](https://watersheds.ca/fitting-the-world-in-a-backpack/) - Have you ever noticed how many things you can fit into a backpack? Backpacks hold more than just our water bottles and bugspray. They can carry tools that help us create memories and connect with nature. It’s even possible to fit the wonders of Canada’s freshwater and forests inside a backpack. We want to partner
- [Give Mom flowers that will bloom all year](https://watersheds.ca/mothers-day-2024/) - Right now, shorelines across Canada are being restored with native species of plants which will help stabilize soils and prevent erosion, slow down and reduce overland runoff, and provide beautiful and valuable wildlife and pollinator habitat. You can ensure this important work continues with a thoughtful Mother’s Day gift! Thanks to the talents of Canadian
- [Media Release - Launch of Interactive Freshwater Stewardship Map for Ottawa Greening Projects](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-launch-of-interactive-freshwater-stewardship-map-for-ottawa-greening-projects/) - Ottawa, ON - In collaboration with Greening Sacred Spaces, Watersheds Canada created the Ottawa Faith Community Capacity Building Program to help provide the tools and resources for six faith communities to lead greening projects and community outreach events. Carleton Memorial United Church, Kanata Muslim Association, Ascension Anglican Church, Trinity United Church, Rhoda Masjid, and St.
- [Light Pollution - Public Perception and Awareness Survey](https://watersheds.ca/light-pollution-public-perception-and-awareness-survey/) - *Questions with an asterisk must be answered before the survey can be submitted.
- [Creating a Resilient Shoreline: Keeping a natural shoreline that benefits your family and local wildlife](https://watersheds.ca/creating-a-resilient-shoreline-keeping-a-natural-shoreline-that-benefits-your-family-and-local-wildlife/) - 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
- [Giving Back to Your Freshwater: Using The Natural Edge to create a resilient and beautiful shoreline](https://watersheds.ca/giving-back-to-your-freshwater/) - 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
- [An ice road to Rome: Trout spawning bed restored in Madawaska Valley, Ontario](https://watersheds.ca/an-ice-road-to-rome-trout-spawning-bed-restored-in-madawaska-valley-ontario/) - by Monica Seidel, Communications and Fundraising Manager The saying goes that ‘all roads lead to Rome’. At that point in human history, the city of Rome was a critical centre of activity that all traffic moved to and through. By directing all movement to Rome, it was ensured to be top-of-mind and to keep its
- [Nature Discovery Backpack lending library - partner request form](https://watersheds.ca/ndb-partner-request/) - Are you a nature group, library, school, or other community group who wants to help families in your area connect with nature and take local stewardship action? Watersheds Canada is now accepting partner requests from groups across Canada for our Nature Discovery Backpack program! Fill in the form below to let us know you are
- [Road Salt Pollution - Public Perception and Awareness Survey](https://watersheds.ca/road-salt-pollution-public-perception-and-awareness-survey/)
- [Full Report: Microplastics Survey of Select Watersheds in the Greater Ottawa Area](https://watersheds.ca/microplastics-full-report/) - Full report PDF download Microplastics Survey of Select Watersheds in the Greater Ottawa Area - JP Thonney Background Plastic is the most prevalent type of artificial debris found in our oceans and lakes. This debris can come in all shapes and sizes, but those less than 5 mm (0.2 inches or about the size of
- [Why should you support Watersheds Canada this Giving Tuesday?](https://watersheds.ca/why-should-you-support-watersheds-canada-this-giving-tuesday/) - by Monica Seidel, Communications and Fundraising Manager Watersheds Canada is a special organization. I have had the pleasure of being a part of this small team for over three years now. I have been mentored, taught, and encouraged by countless volunteers, community groups, and colleagues who all have a passion and dedication for coming together
- [Double your impact for Canada's freshwater](https://watersheds.ca/double-your-impact-for-canadas-freshwater/) - This year has been a very difficult one for Canadians, especially for those living in and visiting waterfront communities. Warnings and evacuations lasted much of 2023 as areas were devastated by record-level storms, wildfires, and other symptoms of climate change. Despite it all, thousands of community groups and volunteers have continued to make freshwater protection
- [Welcome to our Summer Students!](https://watersheds.ca/welcome-to-our-summer-students-2023/) - Thanks to generous funding from Canada Summer Jobs, Watersheds Canada is able to grow our staff team and deliver critical on-the-ground programming this summer! We are excited to welcome back some summer students this year, including Alana, Tanice, and Cole, and welcome new summer students, Ty and Jonathan. Let's meet the students! Alana - Education
- ["Natural Is Gorgeous!": Jane Discovers the Benefits of the Natural Edge](https://watersheds.ca/janes-interview/) - by Monica Seidel, Digital Communications and Marketing Intern Because of support for generous granting programs and individual givers, Watersheds Canada is able to offer people like Jane an opportunity to naturalize her shoreline at a reduced cost. Jane was a Natural Edge participant in September 2014, and first contacted Watersheds Canada with concerns about erosion
- ["Time is Running Out": An Interview with Al Best](https://watersheds.ca/interview-al-best/) - by Monica Seidel, Digital Communications and Marketing Intern Al Best is the President of Carson, Trout, Lepine and Greenan Lakes Association, and has participated in Watersheds Canada's Love Your Lake program and Natural Edge program. Al was a strong advocate on his lake association to having the Love Your Lake program come in and provide
- [Watersheds Canada’s holiday gift guide – 5 perfect gifts for everyone on your list](https://watersheds.ca/watersheds-canada-2019-gift-guide/) - by Monica Seidel, Digital Communications and Marketing Intern Cooler temperatures and snow means it is time to start looking for the perfect gifts to wrap under the tree! With this gift guide, you will find unique and meaningful gifts that protect Canada’s lakes, rivers, and shorelines. “Water” you waiting for? Check out these perfect gifts!
- [What I Took Away from My First Latornell Conservation Symposium](https://watersheds.ca/latornell-blog/) - by Monica Seidel, Digital Communications and Marketing Intern It was clear from the first day’s morning keynote speaker, Rebecca Thomas, that the Latornell Conservation Symposium was taking the current environmental and social crises seriously. Rebecca, a Mi’kmaw poet and activist, effortlessly blended her personal story with jarring poetry that covered topics of identity, the “creation”
- [Help Wildlife Raise Their Young on Your Property](https://watersheds.ca/help-wildlife-raise-young/) - by Monica Seidel, Digital Communications and Marketing Intern Wildlife face increasing pressures to find suitable habitat and food sources near human development. There is increased pressures from flooding, erosion, and pollution along shorelines. Wildlife need safe and natural areas to raise their young to ensure their populations stay healthy. Here are five ways you can
- [Happy Earth Day! 3 Free and Easy Ways to Create Wildlife Habitat](https://watersheds.ca/create-habitat/) - by Monica Seidel, Digital Communications and Marketing Intern Many of our native wildlife populations are declining due to urban development and the removal of natural habitat features. However, there are many ways that landowners can preserve and create habitat on their property so that we can co-exist with these species. Celebrate Earth Day by protecting
- [“If People Can See Value, They Will Get Involved”: An Interview with Judy Hall](https://watersheds.ca/judy-hall-interview/) - by Monica Seidel, Digital Communications and Marketing Intern Judy Hall, a President of the Dalhousie Lake Association, sat down to talk about the importance of engagement and a sense of community when it comes to the long-term health of lake associations and the waters they care for. Answers have been edited for clarity and length.
- [What, When, and How Much to Prune](https://watersheds.ca/pruning/) - by Monica Seidel, Communications and Fundraising Coordinator Pruning is a technique used to help support the growth of native trees and shrubs, and while it is not required, it may be a good option for your property to protect pathways, sight lines, or protect plants from neighbouring competitors. It can be a tricky and overwhelming
- [Mother's Day gifts that help Canada's pollinators](https://watersheds.ca/mothers-day-gifts-that-help-canadas-pollinators/) - Right now, shorelines across Canada are being restored with native species of plants which will help stabilize soils and prevent erosion, slow down and reduce overland runoff, and provide beautiful and valuable wildlife habitat. You can ensure this important work continues with a thoughtful Mother’s Day gift. Thanks to the talents of Ottawa nature artist
- [Give Dad the gift of wildlife viewing and peace at the lake](https://watersheds.ca/give-dad-the-gift-of-wildlife-viewing-and-peace-at-the-lake/) - Many of us have treasured memories of being on the shore and water with our families. Listening to the haunting call of the Common Loon, looking for fireflies, and waiting to catch the next fish are some of the best parts of spending time at the lake. You can ensure these memories can be made
- [News Release – Muskrat Lake restored with 12,500 native plants thanks to Coors Seltzer](https://watersheds.ca/news-release-muskrat-lake-restored-with-12500-native-plants-thanks-to-coors-seltzer/) - A recent nature-based restoration project to protect the long-term health of the Muskrat Lake was led by the Muskrat Watershed Council, Watersheds Canada, and community volunteers. Over 12,500 native trees and shrubs were planted, restoring over 12 acres of shoreline habitat adjacent to agricultural and residential lands. “The Natural Edge Program has been actively working
- [Natural Edge shoreline restoration program is a finalist for the Water Canada 2023 Awards](https://watersheds.ca/natural-edge-shoreline-restoration-program-is-a-finalist-for-the-water-canada-2023-awards/) - Watersheds Canada is pleased to be listed as a finalist for the Water Canada 2023 Awards in the "Conservation" category. This category recognizes a conservation project that uses new technology or a creative approach to effectively manage, conserve, and restore impacted areas. Our Natural Edge shoreline restoration program is a finalist for this category alongside
- [Enter to win a beautifully hand-crafted Common Loon!](https://watersheds.ca/enter-to-win-a-beautifully-hand-crafted-common-loon/) - In addition to being entered in the draw, you will sign-up for our monthly newsletter which gives you tools and information about protecting Canada’s freshwater.
- [The Science Behind the Ribbon of Life: Why Vegetated Shoreline Buffers Matter](https://watersheds.ca/pfos-webinar-nov-28-2022/) - What is the Ribbon of Life and why is it essential to the health and sustainable use of waterfront properties? The 'Ribbon of Life' is the natural shield protecting our freshwater lakes, rivers, and streams. It is what mitigates erosion, protecting the beauty and property values of waterfront properties. It is a haven for wildlife.
- [Happy World Water Day!](https://watersheds.ca/wwd/) - Happy World Water Day! As we come together to raise awareness and take action to tackle our current water issues, Watersheds Canada is excited to help you and your family take action for Canada's freshwater, today and beyond! Download our print-friendly "Top 10 Actions" checklist that you can work on as the year continues. There are
- [Barbara King awarded the Gord Rodgers Memorial Award](https://watersheds.ca/barbara-king-awarded-the-gord-rodgers-memorial-award/) - Watersheds Canada extends our congratulations to Barbara King, the recipient of the Gord Rodgers Memorial Award 2022. Gord Rodgers was a long-standing and dedicated member of the Lake Links planning committee which brings together the annual workshop that has now been running for 21 years. Gord dedicated his professional and personal life to making this
- [News Release – Lots of ‘eyes’ on Watersheds Canada’s work to restore critical walleye spawning areas](https://watersheds.ca/news-release-muskrat-river-restoration/) - November 1, 2022, Renfrew, Ontario – They say good things come to those who wait, and the walleye on Muskrat River have certainly done their share of waiting. Since 2000, the Muskrat River in Renfrew County, Ontario has seen various stages of rehabilitation completed to help the once thriving walleye population. Most notably, stones were added
- [Gifts of Freshwater: Symbolically adopt an otter, beaver, wild columbine, and brook trout!](https://watersheds.ca/gifts-of-freshwater-2022/) - Are you starting to think about your Christmas and holiday shopping? Want your gifts to make a local impact for your lakes, rivers, and shorelines? This year, we have four new symbolic adoptions available that help freshwater ecosystems and the species that call these areas home!
- [Give Bats a Home this Halloween!](https://watersheds.ca/bats/) - Though we don't always see them, bats are incredibly important to the spaces where we live - they eat thousands of insects each night, and act as important pollinators, bringing pollen further than a butterfly or bee would be able to. This Halloween, you can provide a home for bats. Bat houses provide a place
- [5 Questions to Ask Your Municipal Candidate](https://watersheds.ca/5-questions-to-ask-your-municipal-candidate/) - Thank you for attending Planning for our Shorelands' "Engaging Municipal Elected Officials to Protect our Freshwater" webinar on October 6, 2022. If you missed the live event, you can watch the recording on Watersheds Canada's YouTube channel here. Leading up to, and following the October 24th Ontario municipal election, Watersheds Canada will help bring rural
- [Media Release – Thousand Islands Area Residents' Association facilitates education and restoration workshop with residents and Watersheds Canada’s Natural Edge Program](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-rbc-tiara-2022/) - Perth, ON, June 29, 2022 – A recent stewardship and education event for Thousand Islands property owners showed them how the actions they take on their properties can directly protect their river’s health. Neighbours and property owners attended a planting demonstration workshop on June 2, 2022 to learn about the many benefits of having a
- [Media Release – Natural Edge Program helps keep St. Lawrence River healthy for property owners, boaters, anglers, and anyone who uses the river](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-glpi-spring-2022/) - July 5, 2022, Cornwall, Ontario – Shoreline habitat restorations are well underway across the St. Lawrence River Area of Concern, with local partners Watersheds Canada, Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, River Institute, Great River Network, and Raisin Region Conservation Authority on track to restore 3-kilometres of shoreline habitat between 2021 and 2024. Generously funded by the
- [Exciting changes are coming to Watersheds Canada](https://watersheds.ca/exciting-changes/) - After 10 years as Executive Director, Barbara King has decided to move over to a different role at Watersheds Canada. Barbara will move to a part-time Director of Community Partnerships and Programs once we have found our next leader. “I am excited to have a little more time with my busy teens while continuing my
- [YAK Youth learn about water testing thanks to Water Rangers workshop](https://watersheds.ca/yak-workshop-1/) - In partnership with YAK Youth Services and Water Rangers, Watersheds Canada recently held a free workshop for youth attending summer programming at YAK Youth Services in Perth, Ontario. This workshop provided students with an introduction to water quality testing and the different scientific tools that are used to assess freshwater health. Using samples from the
- [Summer 2021 Reflections](https://watersheds.ca/summer-2021-reflections/) - by Samantha Cunningham This summer I had the pleasure of working as an Ecological Technician with Watersheds Canada while I finished off my Master of Water Security from the University of Saskatchewan. I grew up infatuated with the natural world and wanting to give back to my communities. This led me down the path of
- [Media Release - Pugnose Shiner fish on West Lake, Ontario sees restored habitat, increased awareness thanks to community-led project](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-pugnose-shiner-fish-on-west-lake-ontario/) - Perth, ON, April 12, 2022 – A two-year project to benefit the Pugnose Shiner in the Quinte watershed is winding down, but the impacts of the project will continue for years to come. This community-led effort included many different components to benefit the Pugnose Shiner, other wildlife, and overall freshwater quality in the Quinte watershed.
- [Natural Edge Program receives 2021 grant from Ontario Community Environment Fund](https://watersheds.ca/oncef-2022/) - The Ontario government is reinvesting almost $900,000 in 17 projects across the province that will help protect and restore the environment and support stronger, healthier and cleaner communities. Watersheds Canada is honoured to receive funding in Eastern Ontario to deliver shoreline restorations in the Cataraqui and Quinte watersheds. This three-year project will see 4,000 native
- [Media Release - Community-led effort on Wellers Bay and East Lake, Ontario has lasting impacts for the Pugnose Shiner fish, a Species at Risk](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-dfo-wbel/) - Perth, ON, March 11, 2022 – A one-year project to benefit the Pugnose Shiner in the Quinte watershed is winding down, but the impacts of the project will continue for years to come. This community-led effort included many different components to benefit the Pugnose Shiner, other wildlife, and overall freshwater quality in the Quinte watershed.
- [Media Release - Second step of trout spawning restoration project continues thanks to thick ice, local community involvement](https://watersheds.ca/media-release2-diamond-lake/) - March 7, 2022, Combermere, Ontario – Cold winter nights in January made conditions perfect for the further restoration of a historic trout spawning bed on Diamond Lake in the Madawaska Valley. They also made for the perfect outdoor classroom for Liam, a grade four student who joined the restoration efforts along with his father, Stas,
- [Media release - Youth to go on underwater journey to see impacts of human development on their lake’s aquatic ecosystem](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-whc2021/) - June 8, 2021, Watersheds Canada – This Rivers to Oceans Week, Watersheds Canada and Pinegrove Productions are excited to announce the development and delivery of a multimedia project to help youth see, discuss, and understand how human actions on their lake have significant ecological impacts above and below the water. Comparisons between developed and natural
- [“From Rain to Root: Slowing Shoreline Erosion with Storm water Management Techniques” webinar Q&A responses](https://watersheds.ca/from-rain-to-root-webinar-qa/) - Q1: Interested in learning about plantings to manage storm water drainage that is currently going straight into lake, adjacent to swimming beach. A1: Plantings for upland going into lake. I generally observe the way the water is flowing then create berms, or chevrons, to direct the water where I want it to go. I add
- [2020/2021 Annual Report Now Available](https://watersheds.ca/2020-2021-annual-report-now-available/) - A message from the Chair of the Board of Directors, Mary Ellen Stoll: "This year was a year of both change and opportunity for Watersheds Canada. As with many other organizations, staff continued to work from home, and the Board of Directors got comfortable with Zoom. The COVID-19 pandemic gave us the opportunity and the
- [MEDIA RELEASE - Walleye, pike, and bass on Olmstead-Jeffrey Lakes have more places to live thanks to community-led restoration project](https://watersheds.ca/ojl-2021-media/) - December 9, 2021 – There are some new homes on Olmstead and Jeffrey Lakes in Renfrew County, but not on the land. Fish, turtles, and macroinvertebrates like snails and dragonfly larvae now have more natural areas to rest, grow, and hide from predators thanks to a community-led effort that added 18 piles of woody debris
- [We Share How Your Giving Tuesday Donation Protects Canada's Freshwater!](https://watersheds.ca/gt2021/) - We know that you care about your lake, river, or tributary. As fall comes to an end, and we think back to all the times we turned to nature this year, we know that nature is still in need of our help. Together, we can protect the very waters that sustain us. Watersheds Canada continues to
- [Media Release - Restoration of historic lake trout spawning bed begins on Diamond Lake, Ontario](https://watersheds.ca/diamond-lake-press-release/) - October 26, 2021, Perth, Ontario – A momentous first step was taken last month to restore a historic lake trout spawning bed in the Madawaska Valley region. Diamond Lake, located near Combermere, Ontario, is one of only twelve trout lakes in Renfrew County. For many years the trout population has been experiencing struggles on the
- [Media release - Community support and actions in Quinte watershed growing for Pugnose Shiner fish, a Species at Risk](https://watersheds.ca/dfo-press2/) - MEDIA RELEASE Community support and actions in Quinte watershed growing for Pugnose Shiner fish, a Species at Risk Perth, ON, October 18, 2021 – Cathie Coultis has lived in the Quinte watershed for almost 15 years. In the past few years, though, she is seeing dramatic changes on West Lake. More invasive phragmites are spreading
- [Aug. 18/21 Freshwater Health webinar](https://watersheds.ca/webinar/) - In this family-friendly webinar, Chloe and Monica from Watersheds Canada will explore different factors on land and in the water that can impact local freshwater health and the wildlife that live there. Walk away with steps you and your family can take to help protect the waterfront that you love! This webinar is part of
- ["Standing on the Dock in the Rain": Free webinar Aug. 5th @ 7pm](https://watersheds.ca/050820-webinar/) - Join our Executive Director, Barbara King, for "Standing on the Dock in the Rain: Landscaping your shoreline property for wildlife and water quality", a free online webinar hosted by the River Institute on August 5th @ 7pm. Watersheds Canada has been working on freshwater issues for 12 years. They develop programs such as ‘Love Your Lake’
- [Daniel and Susan Gottlieb Lake Stewardship Grant Program](https://watersheds.ca/daniel-and-susan-gottlieb-lake-stewardship-grant-program/) - Watersheds Canada in partnership with the Daniel and Susan Gottlieb Foundation will provide financial support to volunteer groups for projects that have a positive impact on the health of our lakes. This new Lake Stewardship Granting Program will provide up to $500 per association for education and action projects that contribute to lake health. Project
- [Daniel and Susan Gottlieb Lake Stewardship Grant Recipients 2019](https://watersheds.ca/daniel-and-susan-gottlieb-lake-stewardship-grant-recipients-2019/) - Daniel and Susan Gottlieb Lake Stewardship Grant Recipients 2019 Watersheds Canada, in partnership with the Daniel and Susan Gottlieb Foundation, is proud to announce the 2019 recipients for the Daniel and Susan Gottlieb Lake Stewardship Grant. This year we are able to help 15 volunteer groups by providing funding support towards projects that have a
- [Press Release - Excitement in the air for Muskrat Watershed Council](https://watersheds.ca/mwc-press/) - September 17, 2021, Cobden, Ontario - The Muskrat Watershed Council (MWC) is elated to be the recipient of a grant from the Great Lakes Local Action Fund. The Ontario government has selected 44 projects to receive this funding, which supports local projects. These projects are led by community-based organizations, municipalities, conservation authorities and Indigenous communities
- ["Ever wonder how to naturalize your shoreline?" webinar recording](https://watersheds.ca/ri-webinarrecording/) - Thank you to the the River Institute for hosting Watersheds Canada for an "Ever Wonder How To..." workshop last week! Living by the water is wonderful – the peace and quiet, the beauty of the water, and the enjoyment of spending time with family and friends along its shores are but a few of its
- [Registration now open: Lake Links 2021!](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2021-ad/) - Lake Links is celebrating its 20th anniversary! Take part in the online workshop on Saturday, October 23rd at 10am EST to “Take the Challenge!" Guest speakers will focus on connecting what we say and actually do in order to protect our lakes and rivers. Lake Links is a collaborative one-day workshop held every October. It
- [Media Release - New program helps Ottawa students meet local wildlife and plant species for the first time](https://watersheds.ca/fpp-program-media-release/) - August 5, 2021, Perth, Ontario – While Leopard Frogs, Painted Turtles, and Common Milkweed may be ordinary sightings for many Ottawa residents, they are often a new experience for New Canadian students. These students can experience geographic, financial, experiential, and knowledge-based barriers to learning about and meeting local species. Watersheds Canada’s “Freshwater, Plants, and People
- [Press Release - Watershed Discovery Day 2021](https://watersheds.ca/press-release-watershed-discovery-day/) - Friends of the Tay Watershed, 31 July 2021 - The “community is everything” and how we take care of the environment in our community will influence our quality of life and the sustainability of nature’s attributes that surround us. Friends of the Tay Watershed, who are celebrating their 20th anniversary this year, are committed to
- [Restore Your Property in 2020 with the Natural Edge](https://watersheds.ca/bookne-2020/) - Shorelines are one of the richest environments on earth, but they are also among the most threatened. Habitat loss and degradation, water quality impairments, and increasing pressures from shoreline development can deteriorate our lakes and rivers, making them a priority for environmental stewardship and restoration. The Natural Edge Program helps shoreline property owners restore their
- [Natural Edge Contest Winner!](https://watersheds.ca/natural-edge-contest-winner-2/) - Over the summer, Watersheds Canada held a contest for the Natural Edge program. Contest participants had to send in photos of their shoreline and a story of why their shoreline is so important to them. Through the fall, Natural Edge staff read through every single entry, some more than once, and narrowed the entries down
- [Meet our summer students!](https://watersheds.ca/meet-our-summer-students/) - Thanks to generous funding from the Government of Canada through the Canada Summer Jobs program, and funding through the Canadian Wildlife Federation’s Canadian Conservation Corps, Watersheds Canada is excited to welcome five new summer students to our team. These students will be integral in delivering our on-the-ground programming across Eastern Ontario. In particular, they will
- [Watersheds Canada needs your support on June 30th!](https://watersheds.ca/nepitch/) - We have an opportunity to win funding for our Natural Edge Program through the Earth Tech accelerator pitch night. Please tune in and vote for us on June 30 at 7pm ET/6pm CT/4pm PST. Register here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/climate-ventures-earth-tech-pitch-night-tickets-153694952741 During the night you will hear pitches from clean tech entrepreneurs who are helping to address the climate
- [Supporting Canada’s freshwater this Rivers to Oceans Week](https://watersheds.ca/supporting-canadas-freshwater-this-rivers-to-oceans-week/) - Will you be there for Canada’s freshwater this Rivers to Oceans Week? From wetlands, ground water and springs to creeks, streams, lakes, rivers and oceans, our water is connected through watersheds. Rivers to Oceans Week, celebrated from June 8 to 14th, recognizes this connectedness and reminds us that taking care of our water is a
- [Your sneak-peek at our Natural Edge spring planting season!](https://watersheds.ca/spring21-ne-update/) - Spring has sprung! Watersheds Canada is excited to share some updates about our spring field season and how we are staying safe while still working hard to restore and enhance Canada’s freshwater areas. Shoreline property owners across Canada are participating in the Natural Edge Program. We work collaboratively with shoreline property owners to design their
- [Launching a new online Freshwater Stewardship Community](https://watersheds.ca/fsc-blog/) - To create the greatest impact, environmental organizations need to actively train, provide resources, and help others. Watersheds Canada provides practical and proven ways to restore deteriorating shoreline conditions and improve water quality over the long-term. This ensures people across the country can then pass along that same expertise to their family, neighbours, and community. This
- [Join us for our "Planning For our Shorelands" webinar on Saturday, March 13th!](https://watersheds.ca/pfos-2021webinar/) - Watersheds Canada is proud to announce our third webinar in the Freshwater Stewardship Community's series - Christopher Dennison who will speak on the collaborative "Planning for our Shorelands" project. This project is bringing together expert planners, scientists, and lake stewards from across the province. Its objective is to provide a meaningful best-management practices (BMP) resource which
- [Watersheds Canada featured on CBC News - "Shorelines 'not a backyard swimming pool,' lakefront landowners reminded"](https://watersheds.ca/cbc-2021/) - Watersheds Canada is thankful to Robyn Miller of CBC Ottawa for bringing attention to the exponential pressures and development on Ontario's waterfront properties as more people work from home and turn their cottages into permanent residences. Read the full CBC article on their website. Through the Future of Our Shores report published through the "Planning
- [Give Mom the joy of birdwatching this Mother's Day](https://watersheds.ca/give-mom-the-joy-of-birdwatching-this-mothers-day/) - We're so grateful to the mothers, grandmothers, and other strong female influences who have made such a positive impact in our lives. One way you can say thank you this Mother's Day is by making an in honour donation to Watersheds Canada. All donations over $100* will receive a wooden nest box, as well as a
- [Give Mom the joy of birdwatching this Mother's Day!](https://watersheds.ca/mothers-day/) - We're so grateful to the mothers, grandmothers, and other strong female influences who have made such a positive impact in our lives. One way you can say thank you this Mother's Day is by making an in honour donation to Watersheds Canada. All donations over $100* will receive a wooden nest box, as well as
- [Protecting habitat for the Pugnose Shiner fish in the Quinte watershed](https://watersheds.ca/pugnose-blog1/) - Habitat for the Pugnose Shiner, a species at risk, will be enhanced and restored in the Quinte watershed thanks to a project led by Watersheds Canada and Quinte Conservation. A generous two-year grant from the Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s Habitat Stewardship Program for Aquatic Species at Risk will fund the Pugnose Shiner Landowner Engagement and
- [Media release - Watersheds Canada receives $71,000 OTF Grant to Help Community Groups Enhance Fish Habitat](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-fish-toolkit/) - MEDIA RELEASE
- [Watch: "Watersheds 101 and Shoreline Restoration and Planting Programs" webinar](https://watersheds.ca/20210323-webinar/) - You can now watch Quinte Conservation and Watersheds Canada's "Watersheds 101 and Shoreline Restoration and Planting Programs" webinar. Learn about the benefits of a natural shoreline using trees, shrubs, and wildflowers native to your area. Thank you to Friends of the Napanee River and Friends of the Salmon River for hosting us on Tuesday, March
- [Maude Barlow at the Watersheds Gala](https://watersheds.ca/maude-barlow-at-the-watersheds-gala/) - On January 22nd, 2015, we hosted our first fundraiser, the Watersheds Gala. We were honoured to have renowned author and citizens’ advocate, Maude Barlow, as our keynote speaker, and the energetic and revered Canadian professor and naturalist, Michael Runtz, as our Master of Ceremonies. With the generous support from our sponsors, Freshwater Future, Leo Adams
- [Media release - Quinte Watershed Re-Naturalized with 7,780 Native Plants Thanks to the Natural Edge Program and Quinte Conservation](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-quinteotf2020/) - PDF download: Media release - Quinte Watershed Re-Naturalized with 7,780 Native Plants Thanks to the Natural Edge Program and Quinte Conservation January 25, 2021 Watersheds Canada – With a modified planting season and reduced staff and volunteers, nineteen shoreline properties still received the Natural Edge Program in 2020 thanks to
- [Media Release - Easton's Creek Brook Trout Habitat Enhancement](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-eastons-creek/) - MEDIA RELEASE September 26, 2019 Watersheds Canada, LUSH Charity Pot, and Cabela’s Canada Outdoor Fund and LUSH Canada Easton’s Creek – Brook Trout Habitat Enhancement Funding from Cabela’s Canada Outdoor Fund and the LUSH Charity Pot has made it possible for the planting and caging of 73 black willow and silver maple trees along Easton’s
- [Media Release - Mary Jane’s Creek Walleye Spawning Bed Restoration](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-mary-janes-creek/) - MEDIA RELEASE October 7, 2019 Watersheds Canada, LUSH Canada, and Cabela’s Canada Outdoor Fund Mary Jane’s Creek – Walleye Spawning Bed Restoration Funding from Cabela’s Canada Outdoor Fund and the LUSH Charity Pot has allowed for the restoration of a historic walleye spawning bed in Mary Jane’s Creek near Westport, Ontario. The project was completed
- [Media release - 19th Annual Lake Links workshop moves online, brings together over 150 lake stewards](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-ll20/) - Lake Links Planning Committee – On October 24, 2020, lake stewards from five provinces and three countries participated in the first-ever online Lake Links workshop. Due to current health guidelines and the safety of attendees, the 19th Annual Lake Links workshop was held exclusively online. Lake Links attracts citizens and scientists to share ways to
- [Media Release - Natural Edge Starter Kits to Help Property Owners Naturalize their Shoreline](https://watersheds.ca/ne-starter-kits-media-release/) - July 27, 2020, Perth, Ontario – Watersheds Canada, Canadian Wildlife Federation, private donors, and the Love Your Lake Program are helping property owners across Eastern Ontario naturalize their shorelines with the new Natural Edge shoreline re-naturalization starter kit. Lakes in Ontario are dominated with high levels of shoreline development and nutrient loading. Water quality studies
- [Watersheds Canada accepted into Earth Tech 2021 Cohort](https://watersheds.ca/etc-2021/) - Watersheds Canada is pleased to announce that our Natural Edge Program has been selected to join CSI Climate Ventures’ 2021 Earth Tech accelerator! We are excited to meet the 17 other Canadian clean tech ventures in the cohort and spend the next six months advancing our Natural Edge Program, growing as leaders, and connecting with
- [2019/2020 Annual Report Now Available](https://watersheds.ca/2019-2020-annual-report/) - A Message from Barbara King, Executive Director of Watersheds Canada: “Every Shoreline Matters. Every Action Counts. We have a great responsibility to take care of the very environment that sustains us. The choices we make in our everyday life matters, from how we manage our lands to what products and services we support. What we choose
- [Natural Edge update: Muskrat watershed](https://watersheds.ca/muskrat-otf2020/) - It was a rainy, snowy, and cold finish for the Natural Edge team in the Muskrat watershed. November 2020 marked a bittersweet moment as the team finished their three-year project to restore agricultural buffer zones in the region. The team is grateful to all the property owners and community partners who made this project such
- [Download: "Collaborative Systems Thinking for Effective Engagement" PDF](https://watersheds.ca/tlg-pdf/) - The final draft of the "Collaborative Systems Thinking for Effective Engagement" report is now available for download. This report was discussed during the Lake Links 2020 workshop presentation, "Update on Social Engagement study on Rideau Canal with Parks Canada", presented by Isha Mistry & Christine Beaudoin, University of Ottawa and Dr. Steven Cooke, Carleton University.
- [Media Release: Quinte Watershed Benefits from Native Plants Thanks to the Natural Edge Program](https://watersheds.ca/quinte-press-release/) - MEDIA RELEASE March 3, 2020 Quinte Watershed Benefits from Native Plants Thanks to the Natural Edge Program Watersheds Canada – Ontario’s shorelines faced high flood levels and erosion rates in 2019, but thirty-seven landowners in the Quinte watershed took local action to protect their property by participating in Watersheds Canada’s Natural Edge Program.
- [Media Release - Lake Links 2020](https://watersheds.ca/media-release-lake-links-2020/) - “Effective Engagement for Positive Action” 2020 Lake Links Webinar Workshop Join us at our 19th Annual Lake Links Workshop, “Effective Engagement for Positive Action”, on Saturday, October 24th, 2020 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. as a free online webinar. At this year’s workshop, learn how to better engage with your lake, family, and lake
- [ANNOUNCEMENT: Lake Links 2020!](https://watersheds.ca/announcement-lake-links-2020/) - We are excited to announce that the 19th Annual Lake Links workshop is taking place on Saturday October 24th, 2020 from 10am-12pm. Due to current health guidelines and the safety of attendees, this year's workshop will take place exclusively online. You will receive log-in information for the webinar closer to the date. We encourage you
- [Give Bats a Home this Halloween](https://watersheds.ca/give-bats-a-home-this-halloween/) - Though we don't always see them, bats are incredibly important to the spaces where we live - they eat thousands of insects each night, and act as important pollinators, bringing pollen further than a butterfly or bee would be able to. Bats need your help - they are threatened by habitat loss, pesticide use, and
- [White Lake Shoreline Naturalization Planting - October 9th at 9am](https://watersheds.ca/planting/) - Attend a shoreline naturalization planting workshop with Chloe Lajoie of Watersheds Canada! Learn best practices for fall planting and how to choose suitable native plant species to naturalize your shoreline. Advanced registration is required so contact tracing can take place if needed (see below). Participants must also fill in a COVID assessment form before arriving
- [Download the Shoreline Habitat Creation Manual!](https://watersheds.ca/download-the-shoreline-habitat-creation-manual/) - To celebrate Earth Week, the Natural Edge Program is releasing the updated version of the Shoreline Habitat Creation Manual. This free resource offers over 14 resources to enhance habitat for landowners. Some of them are as easy as "retiring" your lawn by creating a no-mow zone, while other projects will see you creating habitat structures
- [A Physically Distanced Love Your Lake Field Season](https://watersheds.ca/lyl-2020-update/) - Love Your Lake (LYL) surveys continued on Kashwakamak Lake in North Frontenac Township as Maggie completed the surveys on behalf of Watersheds Canada, a LYL delivery partner in Eastern Ontario. She was out throughout July to assess the shoreline properties using the detailed protocol, ultimately creating a customized report for each property owner that is
- [Love Your Lake Shoreline Surveys Begin for Summer 2020](https://watersheds.ca/lylsummer2020/) - Watersheds Canada staff Maggie and Mel were recently on Mississippi Lake to do their Love Your Lake training. They will learn how to use the peer-reviewed, detailed protocol to evaluate shorelines, noting the degree of impact on and near the shore. These protocols will create property-specific reports outlining voluntary actions that property owners can take
- [Updates on Natural Edge Fall 2019 Agricultural Sites](https://watersheds.ca/ne-checkin/) - Thanks to incredible community partners like the Muskrat Watershed Council and Algonquin College Waterfront Campus, last year the Natural Edge program was able to plant 15,000 native tree and shrub species to help remediate current water quality issues including sedimentation and nutrient loading from agricultural properties lacking critical vegetative buffers. On a recent site visit to check on
- [Donor Spotlight: Annabel](https://watersheds.ca/donor-spotlight-annabel/) - 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
- [(Safe) spring planting update](https://watersheds.ca/safe-spring-planting-update/) - Spring planting update from Melissa Dakers, Watersheds Canada lake stewardship coordinator: "While following the strict health and safety measures in place during the pandemic, a few staff from Watersheds Canada and Quinte Conservation, and a few tree planters, were able to plant 4,000 native trees and shrubs. We all travel by ourselves to the site, use
- [Help Protect Canada's Freshwater During this Pandemic](https://watersheds.ca/ed-letter-2020/) - I hope that all of you are doing well and staying safe during this time. At Watersheds Canada, we are working to adapt our programs to help all of you keep our freshwater healthy during these unprecedented times. Our staff of 6 are currently working reduced hours from home; however, we are also facing our
- [Media Release: The Natural Edge Program is a Perfect Fit for Local Farmers](https://watersheds.ca/muskrat-media-release/) - MEDIA RELEASE March 4, 2020 The Natural Edge Program is a Perfect Fit for Local Farmers Watersheds Canada – The Muskrat watershed will see improved water quality as
- [Andress' Your Independent Grocer Celebrates World Water Day](https://watersheds.ca/wwd2020/) - Andress’ Your Independent Grocer in Smiths Falls will be celebrating World Water Day (March 22nd) by partnering with Watersheds Canada. With your $2 donation, you will help fund local freshwater initiatives, including naturalizing shorelines with trees, shrubs, and wildflowers, and educating people on in-water fish habitat. You will have the opportunity to write your name
- [Chloe Lajoie to present at Latornell Symposium November 19th](https://watersheds.ca/chloe-lajoie-latornell/) - Our own Chloe Lajoie, Natural Edge Program Manager, will be presenting at this year's Latornell Conservation Symposium! Her presentation, "Restoring Shorelines with Help of Technology" will be on November 19th during the 3:45-5:15pm slot. At this year’s Latornell Conservation Symposium, there is a focus on delegates sharing their research and experiences in order to refresh,
- [Currents of Change: Latornell 2019 Vlog](https://watersheds.ca/latornell-vlog/) - The Latornell Conservation Symposium, hosted November 19-21, 2019 in Alliston, Ontario, drew together conservation authorities, ENGO's, students, businesses, and Indigenous communities. Watch as Monica Seidel, Watersheds Canada's Digital Communications and Marketing Intern, takes you on a tour of the Symposium and what she learned. Watersheds Canada would like to thank the Latornell Conservation Symposium Grant
- [Watersheds Canada Gift Catalogue](https://watersheds.ca/gift-catalogue-announcement/) - The Watersheds Canada Gift Catalogue Click the catalogue above to go straight to our secure store! This catalogue offers ways for you and your family to transform Canada's shorelines. Purchase symbolic adoptions and unique gifts to help keep these precious places healthy and beautiful for wildlife and people for many years to come. Each gift
- [2018/2019 Annual Report Now Available](https://watersheds.ca/2018-2019-annual-report/) - A Message from the Executive Director: "We have been working hard over the last year to take our programs to grassroots communities in new areas in Canada. We are now working with partners in Saskatchewan, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Ontario, and Alberta with plans to host programming in any region that needs help. We have
- [Handout: Citizen Science Programs in Ontario](https://watersheds.ca/handout-citizen-science-programs-in-ontario/) - Holly Evans of the Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority created a handout listing all the citizen science programs available in Ontario. Citizen Science is an exciting way for anyone to contribute to research. There are many opportunities in Ontario. A description of many of the available programs is provided in the handout, including: Great Lakes Marsh
- [Dragonflies as a Bio-indicator of Water Health](https://watersheds.ca/dragonflies-as-a-bio-indicator-of-water-health/) - by Monica Seidel, Digital Communications and Marketing Intern Canada is home to thousands of water bodies that are home to every sort of creature – fish, turtles, invertebrates, frogs, herons, beavers, and dragonflies, to name a few. Over 90% of all lake life is somehow connected to the shoreline as it provides habitat, food, and
- [How to Build a Bat Box/House by Carla Brown, NWF Web Producer](https://watersheds.ca/how-to-build-a-bat-box/) - Story & Photos by Carla Brown, NWF Web Producer via The National Wildlife Federation's "Garden for Wildlife" I love bats because mosquitoes LOVE to bite me. Pesticides can be harmful to mosquitoes’ predators as well as mosquitoes. According to Bat Conservation International, one little brown bat can eat 60 medium-sized moths or over 1000 mosquito-sized insects

## Pages

- [Watersheds](https://watersheds.ca/)
- [Nature Discovery Backpack lending library (Buffalo Lake Métis Settlement)](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/nature-discovery-programming/nature-discovery-backpacks/buffalo-lake-metis-settlement/) - Created in partnership with Buffalo Lake Métis Settlement staff and Elders, Alberta-curriculum linked Backpacks are available to borrow from the Buffalo Lake Métis Settlement. This exciting new partnership is made possible thanks to generous funding from the Aquatic Habitat Restoration Fund. Each Backpack includes activities and field equipment, such as a tiny water quality test
- [Donate this Giving Tuesday](https://watersheds.ca/match/) - Your Giving Tuesday gift will have up to 3X the impact to protect Canada's freshwater! Watersheds Canada is a small environmental registered charity (863555223RR0001) that accomplishes big things. This Giving Tuesday, we're partnering with generous donors like you to deliver impactful programs and practical resources to restore and protect Canada's lakes, rivers, shorelines, and wetlands. Donate
- [Ways to Help](https://watersheds.ca/ways-to-help/) - There are many ways to help keep Canada’s lakes, rivers, and shorelines natural and beautiful! Watersheds Canada is a small environmental registered charity (863555223RR0001) that accomplishes BIG things. We rely on generous donors like you, foundation grants, and corporate partners to develop and deliver impactful programs and practical resources that empower Canadians to take action
- [Freshwater Stewardship Community](https://watersheds.ca/freshwater-stewardship/) - This virtual community is a centralized place for waterfront associations, individuals, academics, students, and other organizations to connect and work together to protect local freshwater and enhance shoreline resilience. Launched in 2021, the Freshwater Stewardship Community already has tens of thousands of Canadians who attend monthly webinars, use free education resources, and network with other
- [Freshwater Management resources](https://watersheds.ca/freshwater-stewardship/freshwater-management-resources/) - Access webinar summaries, links to education and community science programs, and more with our handouts and activities: ''Salt Pollution in Ontario'' webinar handout ''Local Waters, Local Decisions'' webinar handout ''Stronger Together: Supporting Farm Stewardship Through Collaboration'' webinar handout ''Precipitation Projections: Understanding the Latest Climate Data'' webinar handout ''The Memory of the Mud: Paleolimnology reveals the
- [Nature Discovery Backpacks](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/nature-discovery-programming/nature-discovery-backpacks/) - Nature Discovery Backpacks Watersheds Canada, in partnership with different community groups across Canada, has been developing and delivering the Nature Discovery Backpack lending library program. See if there is a lending library near you! If there isn't a local lending library near you yet, your group can bring the Nature Discovery Backpack program to your
- [Nature Discovery Backpack lending library (Kingston)](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/nature-discovery-programming/nature-discovery-backpacks/kingston-frontenac-public-library/) - Ontario-curriculum linked Backpacks are available to borrow from the Kingston Frontenac Public Library thanks to a new partnership with Watersheds Canada. Each freshwater-themed Backpack includes activities and field equipment, as well as Mohawk, Cree, and Anishinaabemwin pond themed flashcards and BINGO cards. Mohawk, Creek, and Anishinaabemwin translation services were donated by All Our Relations Land
- [Kennebec Lake Walleye Spawning Bed Enhancement Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/walleye-projects/kennebec-lake/) - 2025 Kennebec Lake Restoration Project In partnership with the Kennebec Lake Association and the Shabot Obaadjiwan First Nation, Watersheds Canada was able to perform a walleye spawning bed restoration project on a lake in Ontario’s Land O’ Lakes region. Staff and volunteers met on September 17th, 2025, to restore the bed located in Kennebec Lake
- [Wollaston Lake Lake Trout Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/trout-projects/wollaston-lake/) - 2025 Wollaston Lake Lake Trout Project Wollaston Lake, a beautiful body of water located near the hamlet of Coe Hill, has one of Ontario’s last naturally reproducing populations of lake trout. In an effort to support the population stability of this sensitive species, Watersheds Canada’s Fish Habitat team delivered a spawning bed washing project on
- [Kamaniskeg Lake Trout Spawning Bed Enhancement Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/trout-projects/kamaniskeg-lake/) - 2025 Kamaniskeg Lake Restoration Project A historic lake trout spawning bed was washed and restored on Kamaniskeg Lake in August 2025. This involved the manual sweeping of silt and algae off the spawning bed rocks by volunteers and then the use of a power washing hose. Some reasons increased siltation may be observed on a
- [Lake St. Peter Lake Trout Spawning Bed Enhancement Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/trout-projects/lake-st-peter/) - 2025 Lake St. Peter Restoration Project Lake St. Peter is a small lake located in Hastings Highlands, Ontario. It is found next to a village and a provincial park of the same name. Watersheds Canada’s Fish Habitat team visited the lake in September 2024 to deliver a brush bundle project. In September 2025, they followed up
- [Walleye Projects](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/walleye-projects/) - Walleye Spawning Restoration Projects Ardoch Lake Walleye Spawning Bed Enhancement Project Due to the location and the lack of accessibility to the two lake shoals, it was determined that two barges would be rented and that the washed river stone would be need to be moved by hand on Ardoch Lake, Ontario. Over a
- [In-Water Structures](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/) - In-Water Structures Restoration Projects Baptiste Lake - In-Water Structures Project 2024 Delivered in partnership with Baptiste Lake Association, North Hastings Community Fish Hatchery, and Bancroft Area Stewardship Council, Watersheds Canada led a fish habitat restoration project on Baptiste Lake, Ontario. Thanks to the hard work of community volunteers, 20 brush bundles were deployed into
- [Baptiste Lake Brush Bundle Project 2025](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/baptiste-lake-2025/) - 2025 In-Water Structures Project – Baptiste Lake In the fall of 2024, Watersheds Canada’s Fish Habitat team visited Baptiste Lake to deliver a brush bundle project. The brush piles, bound together and weighted with a concrete block, were deposited in key areas of the lake thought to best benefit native fish without interrupting the activity of
- [Baptiste Lake Brush Bundle Project 2024](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/baptiste-lake/) - 2024 In-Water Structures Project – Baptiste Lake Delivered in partnership with Baptiste Lake Association, North Hastings Community Fish Hatchery, and Bancroft Area Stewardship Council, Watersheds Canada led a fish habitat restoration project on Baptiste Lake, Ontario in September 2024. Thanks to the hard work of over 10 community volunteers, 20 brush bundles were created on-land,
- [Paddy Lake Brush Bundle Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/paddy-lake/) - 2025 Paddy Brush Bundle Project In partnership with the Lanark and District Fish and Game Conservation Club, Watersheds Canada’s Fish Habitat team led a project aimed at improving fish habitat conditions in Paddy Lake, ON. The project brought members of the community together to enact direct positive change for native fish species through brush bundle
- [Trout Spawning Beds](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/trout-projects/) - Trout Spawning Restoration Projects Baptiste Lake - Lake Trout Spawning Bed Enhancement Project Watersheds Canada restored three known lake trout spawning beds on Baptiste Lake, ON in partnership with Baptiste Lake Association, Bancroft Area Stewardship Council, and North Hastings Community Fish Hatchery. The project was made possible thanks to the generous support and funding
- [Baptiste Lake Lake Trout Spawning Bed Enhancement Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/trout-projects/baptiste-lake/) - 2025 Baptiste Lake Restoration Project Baptiste Lake is a large lake located in Herschel Township, Bancroft, ON. Stocked with lake trout, muskellunge, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and walleye, it is a well known fishing destination. However, concerns have been raised about the status of the lake trout spawning beds. They have been observed to have
- [Fish Habitat Programs](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/) - Fish Habitat Programs Watersheds Canada, in partnership with many different groups, has been working to develop nature-based fish habitat enhancement programs that can be delivered across the country. Cold-water Habitat Restoration Cold-water streams are significant tributaries in the proper function of natural ecosystems as they help to moderate temperatures in the larger rivers and lakes
- [Paugh Lake Trout Spawning Bed Enhancement Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/trout-projects/paugh-lake/) - 2024 Paugh Lake Restoration Project Paugh Lake, located in the township of Madawaska Valley, Ontario, is known for its cold-water fishery. Wave action and ice movement and push had altered the rock formations on the spawning bed, making it less productive for the fish to spawn on. The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry
- [Paudash Lake 2025 Brush Bundle Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/paudash-lake-2025/) - 2025 Paudash Lake Brush Bundle Project For the second year in a row, Watersheds Canada’s Fish Habitat team has returned to Paudash Lake, ON to deploy in-water woody debris to support native fish species. On September 9th, 2025, staff met with members of the lake community to deliver a brush bundle project. Brush bundles, piles
- [Wolfe Lake Brush Bundle Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/wolfe-lake/) - 2025 Wolfe Lake Brush Bundle Project Watersheds Canada recently delivered a brush bundle project on Wolfe Lake, located in South Frontenac Township and Rideau Lakes Township. This event brought together the community in one shared purpose: building up native fish habitat. It was done using old Christmas trees that were lashed together and weighed down
- [Otty Lake Brush Bundle Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/otty-lake/) - 2025 Otty Lake Brush Bundle Project In early fall, Watersheds Canada’s Fish Habitat team met with volunteers and partners to deliver a fish habitat restoration project on Otty Lake. This project used some unique materials, though. Instead of the typical brush bundles, which are piles of branches lashed together with a rope, the staff instead
- [Big Mink Lake Brush Bundle Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/big-mink-lake/) - 2025 Big Mink Lake Brush Bundle Project Watersheds Canada staff and 10 volunteers met on the shores of Big Mink Lake on September 3rd, 2025, to restore fish habitat using brush bundles. This long, narrow lake, found in the St. Lawrence drainage basin in Hastings Highlands, Ontario, is known for trout and bass fishing. However,
- [In-Water Structures Project – Kamaniskeg Lake & Negeek Lake](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/kamaniskeg-lake-negeek-lake/) - 2025 In-Water Structures Project – Kamaniskeg Lake & Negeek Lake Delivered in partnership with Kamaniskeg Area Property Owners Association, Watersheds Canada restored underwater fish habitat on Kamaniskeg Lake & Negeek Lake in August 2025. In total, 45 woody debris brush bundles were added to the two lakes which will provide critical underwater habitat and spawning
- [Gift Catalogue](https://watersheds.ca/gifts/) - Gifts that keep Canada's lakes, rivers, and shorelines natural and beautiful! Click on each image to symbolically adopt that species or habitat!
- [Protect Canada’s Precious Freshwater](https://watersheds.ca/salt/) - Take Action Against Salt Pollution! Salts, commonly used for de-icing our parking lots, pathways, streets, and highways, ensure safe travel during harsh Canadian winters. However, their persistent use is causing unforeseen consequences for our environment. Our aquatic wildlife, particularly, is suffering from this impact. These salts are infiltrating our waterways, affecting the delicate balance of
- [Staff & Board Members](https://watersheds.ca/staff-and-board-members/) - Watersheds Canada staff Robert Pye Executive Director Robert’s conservation career started when a college internship earned him a full-time communications role at the OFAH. After 25-years with the OFAH, Robert now proudly joins Watersheds Canada as the Executive Director. Robert is the author of a national award-winning outdoors program. He was on the communications
- [Lake Links 2025](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2025/) - The 24th Annual Lake Links workshop took place on Saturday, October 18th, 2025 from 10am-3pm EST at the Lions Community Hall (19 Pineview Dr., Elgin, ON). The theme this year was "Me, My Lake, My Watershed - Living Lakeside, Thinking Watershed Wide". This event was generously funded by Cataraqui Conservation, Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority, and
- [Partners & Supporters](https://watersheds.ca/financial-supporters/) - Thank You We would like to thank all of our financial supporters who have donated to our organization this year. We certainly could not do what we do without your generous contributions! Advanced Custom Fields; Alex Berens - artist; Apsley Home Hardware Building Centre; Bass Pro Shops & Cabela’s Outdoor Fund; Bonneville Environmental Foundation; Cade
- [Lake Links](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links/) - What is Lake Links? Lake Links is a collaborative one-day workshop held every October. It attracts citizens and scientists to share ways we can help sustain our lakes and rivers. Individuals spread across five watersheds in Eastern Ontario and beyond attend this day-long event to learn, network and see what’s new. Each year, Lake Links
- [Shoreland Protection resources](https://watersheds.ca/freshwater-stewardship/shoreland-protection-resources/) - Access webinar summaries, links to education and community science programs, and more with our handouts and activities: ''Local Waters, Local Decisions'' webinar handout ''Flood Impact Maps: A Standardized Approach of Understanding Vulnerable Landscapes'' webinar handout ''Coastal Resilience: Navigating Storms and Winters through Property Assessment and Monitoring'' webinar handout ''Life in the 'Weeds': Exploring the rarely
- [Native Wildlife resources](https://watersheds.ca/freshwater-stewardship/native-wildlife-resources/) - Access webinar summaries, links to education and community science programs, and more with our handouts and activities: ''Crash Course: Saving birds one window at a time'' webinar handout ''Conserving the Buzz: A multifacitated approach to conserving Canada’s bumble bees'' webinar handout ''Ice Fishing: How to prepare for a safe and enjoyable day of winter angling''
- [Invasive Species resources](https://watersheds.ca/freshwater-stewardship/invasive-species-resources/) - Access webinar summaries, links to relevant scientific studies, stewardship action plans, and more with our handouts: Invasive Species - education and removal toolkit ''Controlling Canada’s 'worst' invasive plant species'' webinar handout 'The Threat of Grass Carp to the Great Lakes'' webinar handout ''Great Lakes Aquatic Invasive Species Landing Blitz'' webinar handout ''Water soldier (Stratiotes aloides)
- [Community Science Resources](https://watersheds.ca/freshwater-stewardship/community-science-resources/) - Access webinar summaries, links to education and community science programs, lesson plans, stewardship action plans, and more with our handouts: ''Conserving the Buzz: A multifacitated approach to conserving Canada’s bumble bees'' webinar handout ''Fishing Through a Lens: Using underwater cameras to detect freshwater fishes'' webinar handout ''Bank Swallows: Life history, threats, and ways you can
- [Family and Classroom resources](https://watersheds.ca/freshwater-stewardship/family-and-classroom-resources/) - Access webinar summaries, links to education and community science programs, lesson plans, stewardship action plans, and more with our handouts: ''Wild Ideas! Nature Activities for Family Fun this Summer'' webinar handout ''Ice Fishing: How to prepare for a safe and enjoyable day of winter angling'' webinar handout "Watershed Explorers: Family-friendly activities to help you explore
- [Septic Systems and Freshwater](https://watersheds.ca/septics/) - Are Septic Systems Draining our Freshwater? Maintaining a waterfront property or cottage takes a lot of work, but it is important not to forget about your septic system. Improperly treated wastewater may contain bacteria, viruses, phosphorus, and nitrogen. Inadequate treatment can result in an overabundance of aquatic plant growth and algal blooms. This can make
- [Nature Discovery Backpack lending library (Gravenhurst)](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/nature-discovery-programming/nature-discovery-backpacks/gravenhurst-public-library/) - Ontario-curriculum linked Backpacks are available to borrow from the Gravenhurst Public Library thanks to a new partnership with Watersheds Canada. Each Backpack includes activities and field equipment and a locally-relevant, themed activity book. Participants keep their activity book and return all backpack items to the library for the next person to borrow. Choose from six
- [Nature Discovery Backpack lending library (Winnipeg)](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/nature-discovery-programming/nature-discovery-backpacks/winnipeg/) - Manitoba-curriculum linked Backpacks are available to borrow at different Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) - Manitoba chapter events thanks to a recent partnership with Watersheds Canada. Each Backpack includes activities and field equipment, such as a water quality test kit, magnifying glass, collection jar, binoculars, and identification guides. The contents will help increase student
- [Nature Discovery Backpack lending library (Carman)](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/nature-discovery-programming/nature-discovery-backpacks/carman/) - Manitoba-curriculum linked Backpacks are available to borrow from the Boyne Regional Library thanks to a new partnership with Watersheds Canada. Using your library card, you can borrow different themed backpacks (nature art, foraging/mushrooms, freshwater, nature exploration, picnic), and different themed STEAM kits (patterns in nature, math in nature, life cycles on the riverbank, water quality
- [Nature Discovery Backpack lending library (Perth)](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/nature-discovery-programming/nature-discovery-backpacks/perth/) - In partnership with YAK Youth Services, Watersheds Canada was able to pilot a Nature Discovery Backpack lending library in 2021. Each Backpack that was available for checkout featured activities and field equipment, such as a water quality test kit, aquatic dip net, binoculars, and identification guides. Two in-person workshops were held in partnership with Water
- [Planning for our Shorelands](https://watersheds.ca/planning-for-our-shorelands/) - Welcome to Planning for our Shorelands! No, it’s not a typo! We insist that our program is called shorelands, not shorelines, because this term encompasses a lot more than the line where land and water meet. The beauty, health, and enjoyment of water comes from what happens on the shoreland. Both waterfront property owners and
- [Protect Canada’s Freshwater this Summer](https://watersheds.ca/cyanobacteria/) - Take Action Against Cyanobacteria! Imagine arriving at the lake to find out it is too dangerous to enjoy it. Signs about human and pet health dangers are not what we want to find around our favourite fishing, swimming, or cottage destination. Serious lake health warnings are being issued more than ever before as a result
- [Nature Discovery Backpack lending library (Girl Guides of Canada-Saskatchewan Council)](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/nature-discovery-programming/nature-discovery-backpacks/ggc-saskatchewan-council/) - Saskatchewan-curriculum linked Backpacks are available to borrow through the Girl Guides of Canada-Saskatchewan Council thanks to a new partnership with Watersheds Canada. Each Backpack includes activities and field equipment to increase student engagement and identification skills regarding local species and contribute to local environmental sustainability knowledge and action.
- [Nature Discovery Backpack lending library (Addington Highlands)](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/nature-discovery-programming/nature-discovery-backpacks/addington-highlands-public-library/) - Ontario-curriculum linked Backpacks are available to borrow from the Addington Highlands Public Library thanks to a new partnership with Watersheds Canada. Each Backpack includes activities and field equipment and a locally-relevant, themed activity book. Participants keep their activity book and return all backpack items to the library for the next person to borrow. Choose from
- [Nature Discovery Backpack lending library (Greater Madawaska)](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/nature-discovery-programming/nature-discovery-backpacks/greater-madawaska/) - Ontario-curriculum linked Backpacks are available to borrow from the Greater Madawaska Public Library and Learning Centre thanks to a recent partnership with Watersheds Canada. Each Backpack includes activities and field equipment, such as a tiny water quality test kit, aquatic dip net, binoculars, and identification guides. The contents will help increase student engagement and identification
- [Our Impact](https://watersheds.ca/our-impact/) - Love Your Lake – Microgrant impact report In partnership with the Canadian Wildlife Federation, Watersheds Canada launched a microgrant program to lake groups who had previously been assessed through the Love Your Lake program. The awarded projects demonstrated support and involvement of lake community members taking action towards improving and maintaining shoreline and lake health.
- [Pools and Hot Tubs Impacting our Freshwater](https://watersheds.ca/pools-hottubs/) - The Impacts of Pools and Hot Tubs Common pool and hot tub chemicals include chlorine, bromide, salt, and algaecides. These compounds can be harsh on your body and clothing, but can also have devastating consequences on aquatic ecosystems. Improper disposal of these chemicals and the wastewater from hot tubs and pools can make Canada's freshwater
- [Paudash Lake Brush Bundle Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/paudash-lake/) - 2024 In-Water Structures Project – Paudash Lake Delivered in partnership with the Paudash Lake Conservation Association and Ontario Bass Nation, Watersheds Canada led a fish habitat restoration project on Paudash Lake, Ontario in September 2024. Twenty piles of woody debris were built on-land by community volunteers, anchored with concrete blocks, and then deployed in strategic
- [Ottawa Faith Community Capacity Building Program](https://watersheds.ca/ofccb/) - Together, Greening Sacred Spaces Ottawa and Watersheds Canada successfully delivered the Ottawa Faith Community Capacity Building Program! This two-year project provided six Ottawa, Ontario and surrounding area faith communities with the tools and resources their leaders and volunteers needed to identify a freshwater stewardship need in their community, gain knowledge and skills using information toolkits,
- [Publications](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/resources/publications/) - Publications A Green Guide to Cottage Care In this resource, you will find over twenty practical ways to maintain your cottage, all while taking care of the environment. From septic care to minimizing light pollution, these tips were handpicked to help you benefit from our 20 years of knowledge on watersheds and protecting our
- [Our Programs](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/) - Your Lakes. Your Rivers. Your Future. We have been working on freshwater issues for over 20 years, and we’ve learned a lot about what people and local groups need in order to keep their freshwater healthy. Along with supporting and collaborating with other organizations, we develop programs and pilot them in our local area of
- [Watersheds Canada National Conference](https://watersheds.ca/conference/) - WHEN: May 1-2, 2025 WHERE: Pinestone Resort Golf and Conference Centre, 4252 Haliburton County Road 21, Haliburton, ON WHAT: Immerse yourself in Watersheds Canada’s inaugural conference where inspiration leads to action! Taking place May 1-2, 2025 in Haliburton, ON, this event will bring together fellow lake and watershed enthusiasts for an engaging experience that takes
- [Donate](https://watersheds.ca/donate/) - Your gift will help protect critical freshwater resources that sustain us! Watersheds Canada is a small environmental registered charity (863555223RR0001) that accomplishes BIG things. We rely on generous donors like you, foundation grants, and corporate partners to develop and deliver impactful programs and practical resources that empower Canadians to take action that conserves and restores
- [Employment](https://watersheds.ca/employment/) - Employment Opportunities Thank you for your interest in working with Watersheds Canada, a national nonprofit and charitable organization committed to providing programs to communities across the country that work to engage and help shoreline owners enhance and protect the health of lakes and rivers! There are currently no available opportunities.
- [Privacy Policy](https://watersheds.ca/privacy-policy/) - This Privacy Policy governs the manner in which Watersheds Canada collects, uses, maintains and discloses information collected from users (each, a "User") of the https://watersheds.ca/ website ("Site"). This privacy policy applies to the Site and all products and services offered by Watersheds Canada. Personal identification information We may collect personal identification information from Users in
- [Download the Saskatchewan Wildflower Garden Guide!](https://watersheds.ca/download-the-saskatchewan-wildflower-garden-guide/) - You will receive access to the booklet after you complete the below form. By providing your email, you agree to be added to Watersheds Canada online mailing list and receive occasional electronic communications. You can unsubscribe at any time via a link provided in each communication. For more information, you may contact us at info@watersheds.ca *required field
- [Watersheds Canada National Conference](https://watersheds.ca/national-conference/) - Watersheds Canada National Conference In Canada, the faces of freshwater protection are found building habitat structures, planting native species of trees on shorelines, and monitoring and researching our fisheries and species at risk. Watersheds Canada’s National Conference attracts top scientific talent and grassroots volunteers who are the best chance for the future of Canada’s lakes
- [Download the Wildflower Garden Guide!](https://watersheds.ca/download-wildflower-garden-guide/) - You will receive access to the booklet after you complete the below form. By providing your email, you agree to be added to Watersheds Canada online mailing list and receive occasional electronic communications. You can unsubscribe at any time via a link provided in each communication. For more information, you may contact us at info@watersheds.ca *required field
- [Muskrat River Walleye Spawning Bed Enhancement Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/walleye-projects/muskrat-river-walleye-spawning-bed-enhancement-project/) - 2022 Muskrat River Walleye Spawning Bed Enhancement Project Since 2000, the Muskrat River in Renfrew County, Ontario has seen various stages of rehabilitation completed to help the once thriving walleye population. Most notably, stones were added to the spawning bed under Ministry of Natural Resources direction. In recent years, the Muskrat River suffered a flooding
- [Donate Monthly](https://watersheds.ca/donate-monthly/) - Help protect critical freshwater resources that sustain us and have an immense impact. Watersheds Canada is a small environmental registered charity (863555223RR0001) that accomplishes BIG things. We rely on generous donors like you, foundation grants, and corporate partners to develop and deliver impactful programs and practical resources that empower Canadians to take action that conserves and
- [Resources](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/resources/) - Resources If you are looking for information on planting native vegetation, maintaining a shoreline buffer, invasive species, engaging your community in stewardship projects or something else that’s impacting your shoreline and lake, chances are we have it here! Check out all of our tips, links and tools for all of our great resources! Lake
- [Nature Discovery Backpack lending library (Hastings Highlands)](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/nature-discovery-programming/nature-discovery-backpacks/hastings-highlands/) - Ontario-curriculum linked Backpacks are available to borrow from the Hastings Highlands Public Library thanks to a new partnership with Watersheds Canada, Lake St. Peter Property Owners Association, and Hastings Highlands Public Library. Each Backpack includes activities and field equipment, such as a tiny water quality test kit, aquatic dip net, binoculars, and identification guides. The
- ["Healthy Shorelines, Healthy Lakes: Municipal Planning Tools to Protect our Freshwater" workshop](https://watersheds.ca/planning-for-our-shorelands/healthy-shorelines-healthy-lakes-workshop/) - "Healthy Shorelines, Healthy Lakes: Municipal Planning Tools to Protect our Freshwater" workshop This virtual workshop took place June 14th, 2022, geared towards an audience of Municipal Councilors and Planners, and waterfront association members. The goal of the workshop was to impart the science behind the concept of vegetated buffers, municipal planning and policy tools for
- ["Healthy Shorelines, Healthy Lakes" workshop registration](https://watersheds.ca/workshop-registration/) - Sustainable land use planning is key to protecting the health and enjoyment of Ontario’s lakes and rivers. A natural, resilient, and low impact method of buffering adjacent water bodies from the impacts of waterfront development is the planting of native vegetation along the shoreline. Municipal councillors, planners, and waterfront associations are invited to join us
- [Natural Shorelines - toolkit resources](https://watersheds.ca/ofccb/natural-shorelines-toolkit-resources/) - Natural Shorelines Humans share the critical land-water interface along shorelines with a variety of wildlife. Create a beautiful natural shoreline buffer consisting of native vegetation to foster wildlife habitat, improve shoreline stability, and protect the health and beauty of your lake. Guide to Preparing a Shoreline Naturalization Planting Plan by Watersheds Canada Shoreline Habitat Creation
- [Our favourite memories of 2019](https://watersheds.ca/our-favourite-memories-of-2019/) - Our favourite memories of 2019 As our team continues to work on big plans for 2020, we can't help but remember all of the amazing projects we were able to take part in last year. Here are just a few of our favourite memories from 2019: "I loved working with the Muskrat Watershed Council,
- [PFOS in the news](https://watersheds.ca/pfos-in-the-news/) - https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/warehouse-hamilton-airport-wetland-1.6862497 https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/warehouse-hamilton-airport-wetland-1.6862497 https://lanarkleedstoday.ca/2023/01/13/in-focus/ "Shorelines 'not a backyard swimming pool', lakefront landowners reminded". CBC Ottawa News, May 20, 2021. "Report hopes to advance shoreline debate". The Highlander, June 18, 2021. "Report highlights need for shoreline education". Minden Times, June 9, 2021. "Shorelines 'not a backyard swimming pool', lakefront landowners reminded". CBC News, May 20, 2021.
- [Big Clear Lake Walleye Spawning Bed Enhancement Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/walleye-projects/big-clear-lake-walleye-spawning-bed-enhancement-project/) - 2025 Big Clear Lake Walleye Spawning Bed Enhancement Project On February 6, 2025, members of Watersheds Canada’s Fish Habitat team met with 16 volunteers from local groups to undertake the final stage of the restoration of a walleye spawning bed on Big Clear Lake, Ontario. In partnership with Big Clear Lake Association, Shabot Obaadjiwan First
- [Long Lake – Walleye Enhancement Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/walleye-projects/long-lake/) - 2018 Long Lake – Walleye Enhancement Project Long Lake is located in Central Frontenac Township, just north of Parham, Ontario, a small village along Hwy 38, in Frontenac County. While the lake reaches depths of over 13 meters, the average depth is about 6 meters. The lake has a perimeter of 16.8 km and a
- [Lake St. Peter Brush Bundle Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/lake-st-peter/) - 2024 In-Water Structures Project – Lake St. Peter Delivered in partnership with the Lake St. Peter Property Owners Association, Bancroft Area Stewardship Council, and North Hastings Community Fish Hatchery, Watersheds Canada led a fish habitat restoration project on Lake St. Peter, Ontario in September 2024. Twenty piles of woody debris were built on-land by community
- [Business Supporter Program](https://watersheds.ca/business-supporter-program/) - Watersheds Canada Business Supporter Program Big or small, international or local, CEO’s, ESG managers or marketing directors – all business leaders have an opportunity to join Watersheds Canada Business Supporter Program. Watersheds Canada is always open to discuss partnership opportunities with all other nonprofits and the private sector, including corporations, independent retailers, family-owned businesses, firms,
- [Tribute Gifts](https://watersheds.ca/tribute/) - Give a gift that makes an impact! A tribute gift made in honour of a birthday, holiday, in memory of a loved one, or just because provides an opportunity to celebrate family and friends in a meaningful and impactful way! With each tribute gift, you can send a personalized eCard or print a copy of
- [Diamond Lake Trout Spawning Bed Enhancement Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/trout-projects/diamond-lake/) - 2021 Diamond Lake Restoration Project Diamond Lake is located in the Madawaska Valley region near Combermere, Ontario. This historic lake is 166 hectares in size, a maximum depth of 25 metres and an average depth of approximately 8 metres. It is only one of twelve trout lakes in Renfrew County. Diamond Lake is home to
- [Shoreland and Freshwater Health Multimedia Experience](https://watersheds.ca/multimedia/) - In partnership with Lake St. Peter Property Owners Association, Bancroft Area Stewardship Council, and Pinegrove Productions, Watersheds Canada is piloting a shoreland and freshwater health multimedia experience for children and youth to protect and connect with local lakes and natural areas. This project will get students and their families learning about local environmental issues and
- [2024 Easton's Creek Restoration Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/cold-water-restoration-projects/eastons-creek-2024/) - In partnership with Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority, Watersheds Canada led a coldwater creek enhancement project at Easton’s Creek, Ontario in November 2024. This project connected corridors of brook trout habitat in a cold-water creek in Lanark County, where some of the few remaining cold-water brook trout creeks exist in the Mississippi River watershed. In total,
- [Coldwater Restoration Projects](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/cold-water-restoration-projects/) - Coldwater Creek Restoration Projects Carson Lake Restoration Project Delivered in partnership with Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters - Zone E and Carson Trout Lepine & Greenan – Lakes Association, Watersheds Canada restored creek habitat on Carson Lake, Ontario to benefit local brook trout populations. Through the planting of native plants, and the installation
- [Easton's Creek Restoration Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/cold-water-restoration-projects/eastons-creek/) - 2019 Easton's Creek Restoration Project Thanks to funding from Cabela’s Canada Outdoor Fund and the LUSH Charity Pot, Watersheds Canada was able to participate in a Brook Trout Habitat Enhancement collaborative project at Easton's Creek, Ontario. The creek’s location is about 45 minutes northwest of Perth, Ontario in the Mississippi River Watershed. Waddle Creek, one
- [Carson Lake Restoration Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/cold-water-restoration-projects/carson-lake/) - 2024 Carson Lake Restoration Project Delivered in partnership with Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters - Zone E and Carson Trout Lepine & Greenan – Lakes Association, Watersheds Canada restored creek habitat on Carson Lake, Ontario to benefit local brook trout populations. Through the planting of native plants, and the installation of coir logs and
- [Annual Reports](https://watersheds.ca/annual-report/) - 2023/2024 Annual Report 2022/2023 Annual Report 2021/2022 Annual Report 2020/2021 Annual Report 2019/2020 Annual Report 2018/2019 Annual Report 2017/2018 Annual Report 2016/2017 Annual Report 2014/2015 Annual Report 2013/2014 Annual Report
- [Mink Lake – In-Water Structures Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/mink-lake/) - 2024 In-Water Structures Project – Mink Lake Delivered in partnership with the Algonquin College – Pembroke campus, Muskrat Watershed Council, and Mink Lake residents, Watersheds Canada led a fish habitat restoration project on Mink Lake, Ontario in October 2024. Twenty piles of woody debris were built on land by fifteen community volunteers and Watersheds Canada
- [Baptiste Lake Walleye Spawning Bed Enhancement Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/walleye-projects/baptiste-lake/) - 2024 Baptiste Lake Walleye Spawning Bed Enhancement Project Delivered in partnership with Baptiste Lake Association, North Hastings Community Fish Hatchery, and Bancroft Area Stewardship Council, Watersheds Canada led a fish habitat restoration project on Baptiste Lake, Ontario in September 2024. Thanks to the hard work of over 15 community volunteers, a historic walleye spawning bed
- [Lake Links 2024](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2024/) - The 23rd Annual Lake Links workshop took place on Saturday, October 26th, 2024 from 10am-3pm EST at the Lions Community Hall (19 Pineview Dr., Elgin, ON). The theme this year was "Planning for Change: The Ripple Effect of Lake Planning". This event was generously funded by Cataraqui Conservation, Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority, Rideau Valley Conservation
- [Lake Links 2023](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2023/) - The 22nd Annual Lake Links workshop took place on Saturday, October 21st, 2023 from 10am-3pm EST at the Perth Civitan Club (6787 Lanark County Rd 43, Perth, ON). The theme this year was "Hooked on Habitat: Sustainable Fisheries for the Future". This event was generously funded by the Cataraqui Conservation, Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority, Rideau
- [Nature Discovery programming](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/nature-discovery-programming/) - Education resources Access free Ontario-curriculum linked games, activities, and lesson plans that are perfect for informal and formal educators, parents, and grandparents. Help the next generation of environmental stewards learn more about local species, freshwater health, and how they can take action using nature-based solutions. Learn more Nature Discovery Backpacks Watersheds Canada, in partnership
- [Wine & Water 2024](https://watersheds.ca/wine/) - Join Watersheds Canada for an exquisite afternoon of fine Ontario wines and delectable charcuterie at Viamede Resort, all in support of freshwater protection. This intimate wine tasting will be led by distinguished wine critic, Leah Spooner, who will guide you through a curated selection of local wines, each paired with artisanal charcuterie to enhance your
- [Wollaston Lake Brush Bundle Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/wollaston-lake/) - 2024 In-Water Structures Project – Wollaston Lake Delivered in partnership with the Wollaston Lake Home & Cottage Association, North Hastings Community Fish Hatchery, and Bancroft Area Stewardship Council, Watersheds Canada led a fish habitat restoration project on Wollaston Lake, Ontario in September 2024. Twenty piles of woody debris were built on-land by community volunteers, anchored
- [Papineau Lake Brush Bundle Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/papineau-lake/) - 2024 In-Water Structures Project – Papineau Lake Delivered in partnership with the Papineau Lake Community Association, Watersheds Canada led a fish habitat restoration project on Papineau Lake, Ontario in August 2024. Twenty piles of woody debris were built on-land by over 20 community volunteers of all ages, anchored with concrete blocks, and then deployed into
- [Diamond Lake Brush Bundle Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/diamond-lake/) - 2024 In-Water Structures Project – Diamond Lake Delivered in partnership with Diamond Lake Association, Watersheds Canada led a fish habitat restoration project on Diamond Lake, Ontario in September 2024. In total, 20 brush bundles were built on-land, anchored with concrete blocks, and then deployed on the lake in strategic back bays away from boat traffic
- [Keep nights dark for our wildlife.](https://watersheds.ca/light/) - Why is light a problem? Light pollution is often overlooked but is a significant environmental concern. There are many adverse effects of light pollution on aquatic ecosystems, wildlife, and human health, so raising awareness and leading local change is important at the individual, community group, and municipal level. Use this page to access free resources
- [Education Resources](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/nature-discovery-programming/education-resources/) - General information: Staying Safe The Riparian Zone What Could I Bring On My Adventure What Is A Watershed How Are People Impacting Nature How Can I Help Colouring sheets and activity books: Monarch butterfly and Milkweed colouring page Pugnose Shiner colouring sheet Walleye river bed colouring sheet Pike and woody debris colouring sheet Native
- [Contact](https://watersheds.ca/contact/) - Do you have questions about The Natural Edge? If so, click on the button below: Click HERE for Natural Edge Inquiries For general inquires only, contact us below: Office: 115-40 Sunset Boulevard, Perth, Ontario K7H 2Y4 Phone: 613-264-1244
- [Climate Change Toolkit](https://watersheds.ca/climate-change/) - Learn more about Climate Change Shoreline properties are located on the frontline of climate change as many environmental functions and processes are pronounced at this critical area for biodiversity and the water cycle. Shoreline properties exist in the riparian area (within 30m of the shoreline), which is a vital region for ecosystem and environmental resilience
- [Freshwater, Plants, and People Program](https://watersheds.ca/fpp-program/) - We all have school experiences that we still remember because of the positive impact they had in sparking our interest and fostering our passions. To make this possible for the next generation of environmental stewards, Watersheds Canada delivers Ontario-curriculum linked programming for grade 1-6 English as a learned language and new Canadian students at two
- [Nature Discovery Backpack lending library (Sudbury)](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/nature-discovery-programming/nature-discovery-backpacks/sudbury/) - French and English backpacks are available to borrow each summer from all thirteen Greater Sudbury Public Library (GSPL) branches thanks to a partnership with Watersheds Canada, Junction Creek Stewardship Committee (JCSC), Atikameksheng Anishnawbek First Nation, and the Greater Sudbury Public Library. Over 50 Ontario-curriculum linked Backpacks are available for families and adults to borrow across
- [Canada’s freshwater future. Your legacy.](https://watersheds.ca/legacy/) - Watersheds Canada cares about your legacy giving plans. Plans for a waterfront property or a cottage getaway secure precious days of swimming and relaxing. Plans for boats and kayaks achieve dreams of exploring lakes and rivers. Plans to teach grandchildren how to catch fish from the dock, or find turtles near the shore, create life's
- [Gift of Securities](https://watersheds.ca/gift-of-securities/) - Everyone must dispose of stock at one time or another. When you make a gift of securities to Watersheds Canada, you put that stock in knowing you are supporting our organization in defending Canada’s lakes and rivers from climate change and over-development. Your support will be celebrated through action-based programs that restore shorelines, create habitat,
- [How to Include a Gift in Your Will ](https://watersheds.ca/how-to-include-a-gift-in-your-will/) - Here is all the information you need to draft or update your Will to include a legacy gift for Watersheds Canada: Legal Name: Watersheds Canada Charitable Registration #: 863555223 RR0001 Address: 115-40 Sunset Blvd., Perth, Ontario, K7H 2Y4 Suggested wording for a residual gift: “To pay Watersheds Canada the residue (or share of the residue)
- [A Gift of Life Insurance](https://watersheds.ca/a-gift-of-life-insurance/) - You can name Watersheds Canada as the beneficiary of your life insurance policy. If you do not have a current life insurance policy, you might consider purchasing one and transferring its ownership to a charity. When you transfer ownership, the premium you pay is treated as a donation and you will receive a donation receipt
- [Property Donation](https://watersheds.ca/property-donation/) - Watersheds Canada team received an Ontario Trillium Foundation grant (Resilient Communities Fund) to conduct a waterfront land and property donation feasibility study. The study helps Watersheds Canada give waterfront property owners and their families new charitable giving options to ensure their legacy properties are protected for generations to come by donating them to our charity.
- [Nature Discovery Kit (Haliburton and Peterborough, Ontario)](https://watersheds.ca/kit/) - In partnership with Haliburton Outdoors 4 Youth Club and The Land Between, Watersheds Canada launched the free Nature Discovery Kit project in summer 2021. These kits decreased financial, geographic, experiential, and knowledge-based barriers for youth to participate in citizen science, species identification, and environmental stewardship. Each kit included field equipment and activities for youth and
- [Canonto Lake – In-Water Structures Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/canonto-lake/) - 2018 In-Water Structures Project – Canonto Lake Canonto Lake is located in the township of North Frontenac, northeast of the town of Ompah, Ontario with a lake perimeter of 17.4 kilometres, a maximum depth of 21.4 metres and an average depth of 3.8 metres. Located in the Mississippi River watershed, the lake is fed from
- [White Lake - In-Water Fish Structures](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/white-lake/) - White Lake In-Water Fish Structures Existing fish habitat sites, suitable for the addition of woody debris (10 foot brush bundles, tied and anchored to cinder blocks) were carefully selected so that they would not interfere with boaters, which was an important consideration given White Lake, Ontario has a mean depth of 10 feet and has
- [Olmstead-Jeffrey Lakes Brush Bundle Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/olmstead-jeffrey-lakes/) - 2021 In-Water Structures Project – Olmstead-Jeffrey Lakes Olmstead and Jeffrey Lakes are located in Renfrew County, southeast of the Village of Cobden, Ontario. Located in the Upper Muskrat River Catchment of the Muskrat Watershed, Olmstead and Jeffrey Lakes empty into the Muskrat River which then empties into the Ottawa River in the City of Pembroke.
- [Farren Lake Fish Habitat Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/farren-lake-fish-habitat-project/) - 2022 Farren Lake Brush Bundle Project Members of the Farren Lake Property Owners Association in Ontario and their families knew fish homes were disappearing on their lake and that they had to take action. Families who had been living on the lake for decades have seen an increase in shoreline development and the subsequent removal
- [Dalhousie Lake Fish Habitat Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/dalhousie-lake/) - Dalhousie Lake Fish Habitat Project The goal of this project was to make fish habitat improvements in Dalhousie Lake, Ontario by naturalizing shorelines and providing fish habitat. In fall of 2014, two walleye spawning beds were enhanced, 20 fish habitat structures in the form of tree/brush bundles were placed in the lake, and six shoreline
- [Christie Lake Fish Habitat Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/christie-lake/) - Christie Lake Fish Habitat Project Cottage development along Christie Lake, Ontario has resulted in the loss of in-water structures due to cottagers removing and “cleaning up” their shoreline properties. This project created brush/tree bundles and sunk them in waters greater than 12 feet deep to provide fish habitat without impeding boat traffic. These in-water structures
- [Sharbot Lake Walleye Spawning Bed Restoration](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/walleye-projects/sharbot-lake/) - 2017 Sharbot Lake Walleye Spawning Bed Restoration Another successful walleye spawning bed restoration project was completed in the fall of 2017 on Sharbot Lake, in Frontenac County, Ontario in partnership with the Sharbot Lake Property Owners Association (SLPOA). Watersheds Canada received approval and funding from Fisheries and Oceans Canada to proceed with the fish habitat
- [White Lake - Walleye Spawning Bed Enhancement](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/walleye-projects/white-lake/) - White Lake Spawning Bed Project White Lake, located west of Arnprior, Ontario, was the setting of a fisheries habitat enhancement project led by Watersheds Canada staff and Lanark County Stewardship Council members during the week of October 5th, 2015. The project received funding through the Department of Fisheries and Oceans to improve the overall health
- [Pugnose Shiner Landowner Engagement and Shoreline Habitat Restoration Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/pugnose-shiner/) - Pugnose Shiner Landowner Engagement and Shoreline Habitat Restoration Project From 2020-2022, Watersheds Canada and Quinte Conservation focused on landowner engagement and action to help enhance and restore local Pugnose Shiner populations and habitat quality. This two-year voluntary education and action project helped shoreline property owners in the Quinte watershed protect the last remaining habitats of
- [Ardoch Lake Walleye Spawning Bed Enhancement Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/walleye-projects/ardoch-lake/) - 2017 Ardoch Lake Walleye Spawning Bed Enhancement Project Located in the Township of North Frontenac, Ontario, Ardoch Lake is fortunate to have a very active lake association, the Malcolm and Ardoch Lakes Landowner’ Association (MALLA), whom have been monitoring and enhancing walleye spawning beds on both Malcolm and Ardoch Lakes since 2008. The organization is
- [Past PFOS events](https://watersheds.ca/past-planning-for-our-shorelands-events/) - November 28, 2023 - "One Shoreland at a Time: Restoring the Ribbon of Life" To protect Canada's freshwater ecosystems and increase the resiliency of waterfront communities in the face of climate change, nature-based solutions and community-led action are needed. Join Watersheds Canada staff as they explore programs and toolkit resources that you can use to
- [Fish habitat restoration project request](https://watersheds.ca/fish-partner-form/) - Does your lake's fish habitat need to be enhanced? In-water woody debris is valuable lake habitat for fish to spawn, feed, hide, and rest. Brush bundles benefit perch, bass, sunfish, and pike. Your lake group can restore your lake's habitat by building brush bundles! Watersheds Canada is now accepting
- [Natural Edge Inquiries](https://watersheds.ca/natural-edge-inquiries/) - ** Site visits are now available for summer 2024! Fill in the form below to get more information.**
- [Newsletter Sign-up](https://watersheds.ca/newsletter-sign-up/) - Subscribe to get the latest news from Watersheds Canada! Hear about upcoming microgrants, volunteer opportunities, project updates, education resources, and more in our monthly e-newsletter. By providing your email, you agree to receive electronic communications from Watersheds Canada. You can unsubscribe at any time via a link provided in each communication. For more information, you
- [Freshwater Stewardship Engagement Toolkit](https://watersheds.ca/ofccb/freshwater-stewardship-engagement-toolkit/) - Freshwater Stewardship Engagement Toolkit The two-year Ottawa Faith Community Capacity Building program provides faith communities with the tools and resources they need to identify a freshwater stewardship need in their community and take action using the Freshwater Stewardship Engagement toolkit and a microgrant program. This program is possible thanks to generous funding from the Ottawa
- [About Watersheds Canada](https://watersheds.ca/about-watersheds-canada/) - Every Shoreland Matters. Every Action Counts. What is Watersheds Canada? Watersheds Canada is a federally incorporated non-profit organization and registered Canadian charity (863555223 RR 0001). We are committed to providing programs to communities across the country that work to engage and help shoreline owners enhance and protect the health of lakes and rivers. Vision People
- [Youth Engagement - toolkit resources](https://watersheds.ca/ofccb/youth-engagement-toolkit-resources/) - Youth Engagement Engaging youth will help educate and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards and provide diverse perspectives and new insights on your project! Also, read youth leaders' testimonials and learn how to organize and manage a youth-led action project. Youth Voices Outreach Manual How to organize an inter-faith youth group retrieved from Faith
- [Shoreline Cleanups - toolkit resources](https://watersheds.ca/ofccb/shoreline-cleanups-toolkit-resources/) - Shoreline Cleanups Take action and contribute to shoreline conservation efforts by leading a cleanup with your community! Preserve the health and beauty of Canada’s freshwater by picking up litter and tracking what you find. Checklist for Solo and Small Team Shoreline Cleanup by Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup poster Great Canadian Shoreline
- [Invasive Species - toolkit resources](https://watersheds.ca/ofccb/invasive-species-toolkit-resources/) - Invasive species are aggressive and can degrade ecosystems by outcompeting native species. Learn how to recognize and manage invasive species of terrestrial and aquatic plants, invertebrates, and fish to help protect species at risk and critical habitat using our newly curated Invasive Species Management Toolkit! Invasive Aquatic Plant Species: A Quick Reference Guide by
- [Indigenous Water Education - toolkit resources](https://watersheds.ca/ofccb/indigenous-water-education-toolkit-resources/) - Indigenous Water Education Explore stewardship actions rooted in traditional knowledge and understand different cultural perspectives on the protection and preservation of water! Learn about Water Walks, the Sacred Water Circle, Indigenous water governance, and why water is sacred. Sacredness of Water by Faith & the Common Good Take a Sacred Pause - A brief guide
- [Green Audits and Retrofits - toolkit resources](https://watersheds.ca/ofccb/green-audits-and-retrofits-toolkit-resources/) - Green Audits and Retrofits Energy Benchmarking helps raise awareness and knowledge of your building’s energy use, while an energy audit consists of an inspection survey with an energy analysis for your building. These help in making practical and cost-effective energy-efficient decisions! Ways to Save Energy “Do-It-Yourself” Faith Building Energy Audit Guide by Greening Sacred Spaces
- [Stormwater Management - toolkit resources](https://watersheds.ca/ofccb/freshwater-stewardship-engagement-toolkit/stormwater-management-toolkit-resources/) - Stormwater Management Stormwater originating from precipitation can cause flooding and increased surface runoff. Discover how to manage stormwater and harvest rainwater for irrigation using techniques such as rain gardens and rain barrels! The Story of Stormwater by Green Communities Canada ''Rain Smart Neighbourhoods'' webinar handout by Watersheds Canada and REEP Green Solutions Make Your Home
- [Fish Habitat - toolkit resources](https://watersheds.ca/ofccb/freshwater-stewardship-engagement-toolkit/fish-habitat-toolkit-resources/) - Fish Habitat Enhance fish habitat with native plantings, woody debris piles (brush bundles), rock piles, and more! Help protect freshwater fish populations by restoring key aquatic habitat features like food sources, cool water, shelter and protection, and spawning areas. Improving Fish Habitat by LandOwner Resource Centre Fish Habitat Enhancement Toolkit Guide WEB In-water Structures -
- [Community Science - toolkit resources](https://watersheds.ca/ofccb/freshwater-stewardship-engagement-toolkit/community-science-toolkit-resources/) - Community Science Become a community scientist and contribute to research and conservation efforts by documenting species that live near you! Plan a BioBlitz event, participate in species monitoring programs, or record and share wildlife observations in online databases. Become a Community Scientist handout by Watersheds Canada Become a Community Scientist poster by The Land Between
- [Community Gardens - toolkit resources](https://watersheds.ca/ofccb/freshwater-stewardship-engagement-toolkit/community-gardens-toolkit-resources/) - Community Gardens Community gardens are beautiful and beneficial for your community and surrounding wildlife! Create a native wildflower garden, edible garden, rain garden, or wildlife-friendly pollinator garden to create habitat, promote biodiversity, and protect and beautify the land. Blog Posts (Community Gardens) by Watersheds Canada Community Gardening 101 by FoodShare Community Garden Toolkit by Housing
- [The Natural Edge](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/the-natural-edge/) - The Natural Edge Does Your Waterfront Property have a Natural Edge? Waterfront properties are among the most beautiful – and most valuable – places to live. With the serene water, the clear night skies, and fishing and swimming right out the backdoor, they’re the perfect place to live, relax, and enjoy with friends and family.
- [Upcoming PFOS events](https://watersheds.ca/upcoming-planning-for-our-shorelands-events/) - There are currently no upcoming events. You can watch past webinars, download and share resources from our online toolkit, or visit Planning for our Shorelands to learn how we are addressing complex problems facing waterfront communities through an ecosystem-based approach in land use decision-making. Don't want to miss out on our next event? Sign up for
- [Testimonials](https://watersheds.ca/natural-edge-testimonials/) - The Natural Edge Program is possible because of generous funding support from the Ontario Trillium Foundation and Daniel and Susan Gottlieb Foundation. Wonderful community partners make it possible for the Natural Edge Program to be delivered far beyond Eastern Ontario! To see if the program is offered in your area, please visit our partners webpage.
- [Testimonials](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/love-your-lake/love-your-lake-testimonials/) - Love Your Lake is coordinated by the Canadian Wildlife Federation and Watersheds Canada. "Woefully ignorant of the impact our shoreline had on the wildlife we so enjoy at our beloved cottage. We thank you for for this excellent shoreline property report. We are committed to assuming improved stewardship for our shoreline and property." "Thank you
- [Love Your Lake](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/love-your-lake/) - Healthy Shorelines for Healthy Lakes Property owners undoubtedly love their beautiful shoreline properties. Fond memories with family and friends are formed during special times on the water. Legendary fish fries, epic paddling adventures, amazing bonfires, and stunning displays of stars are many of the great benefits of owning a shoreline property. But did you know that the
- [Videos](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/resources/videos/) - Videos Natural Edge Program Protect your lake by restoring a natural shoreline! Not sure how? Learn more about our Natural Edge Program by watching this video! Fish Habitat Enhancement This “how to” video features an in-water brush bundle project undertaken by the Lanark County Stewardship Council in partnership with the Lanark Fish and Game Conservation
- [Pine Lake Brush Bundle Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/pine-lake/) - 2019 Pine Lake Brush Bundle Project Watersheds Canada received funding from the LUSH Charity Pot which allowed for an In-water Fish Habitat Enhancement project to be completed. The chosen location was Pine Lake, about 60 minutes west of Perth in the Township of North Frontenac, Ontario. This lake was previously identified as having been impacted
- [Mississippi Lake Brush Bundle Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/mississippi-lake/) - Mississippi Lake 2017 Brush Bundle Project One of the largest inland lakes in South-Eastern Ontario, Mississippi Lake is less than an hour’s drive from our Nation’s Capital. That being said, it has a high level of development pressure. Mississippi Lake is known for its recreational cool and warm water fishery, particularly: Walleye, Northern Pike, and
- [Mazinaw Lake – In-Water Structures Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/mazinaw-lake/) - 2018 In-Water Structures Project – Mazinaw Lake Famous for its 100 metre granite cliff, Mazinaw Lake is situated in portions of North Frontenac and Addington Highlands Townships, north of the town of Kaladar. With a lake perimeter of over 49 kilometres and a maximum depth of 144.8 metres, it is one of the deepest inland
- [Kashwakamak Lake Brush Bundle Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/in-water-structures/kashwakamak-lake/) - 2019 Kashwakamak Lake Brush Bundle Project Watersheds Canada received funding by the LUSH Charity Pot which allowed for an In-water Fish Habitat Enhancement project to be completed. Kashwakamak Lake is located about 90 minutes west of Perth, Ontario in the Township of North Frontenac. Underwater woody debris is a healthy and important component of lake
- [Waddle Creek - Brook Trout Restoration](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/cold-water-restoration-projects/waddle-creek/) - 2018 Waddle Creek - Brook Trout Restoration Waddle Creek is a cold water creek located in Lanark Highlands Township within Lanark County, northwest of Perth, Ontario. Waddles Creek is a reach of Eastons Creek which flows into the Clyde River which drains into the Mississippi River. Waddle Creek is one of five cold water streams
- [Long Sault Creek Restoration Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/cold-water-restoration-projects/long-sault-creek/) - 2016 Long Sault Creek Restoration Project As part of Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s Recreational Fisheries Conservation Partnerships Funding Program for 2016, Long Sault Creek, located northwest of Perth, Ontario, was the location of a 1km cold water creek restoration. Long Sault Creek is one of five cold water streams within the Mississippi Valley Watershed and
- [Pauls Creek Restoration Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/cold-water-restoration-projects/pauls-creek/) - 2017 Pauls Creek Restoration Project Watersheds Canada is the proud recipient a three year grant (2016-2018) from Fisheries and Oceans Canada Recreational Fisheries Conservation Program Partnership. Pauls Creek is a cold water creek located in Lanark Highlands Township within Lanark County, northwest of Perth, Ontario. Pauls Creek flows directly into Dalhousie Lake which drains into
- [Twin Sister Lakes Walleye Spawning Bed Restoration Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/walleye-projects/twin-sister-lakes/) - Twin Sister Lakes Walleye Spawning Bed Restoration Project As winter started to make a presence in Ontario, Watersheds Canada completed the last fish habitat project of 2017 on Twin Sister Lakes, north of Marmora. With funding from Fisheries and Oceans Canada, as well as the Ontario Community Environment Fund, two historical walleye spawning beds, one
- [Mary Jane’s Creek Restoration Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/walleye-projects/mary-janes-creek/) - 2019 Mary Jane's Creek Walleye Spawning Bed Enhancement Watersheds Canada received funding from Cabela’s Canada Outdoor Fund and the LUSH Charity Pot for the Mary Jane’s Creek walleye spawning bed restoration project. This creek is found near Westport, Ontario and was chosen for its potential to increase the Walleye spawning habitat available downstream of the
- [Howes Lake – Cole Creek Restoration Project](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/walleye-projects/howes-lake-cole-creek/) - 2016 Howes Lake – Cole Creek Howes Lake is a spring fed lake located in the township of South Frontenac, just north of Verona, in Frontenac County, Ontario. It is long lake with a surface area of 153.8 ha and connects with Verona (Rock) Lake that is currently stocked with walleye fingerlings. It has a
- [Past FSC resources](https://watersheds.ca/past-fsc-resources/) - ''Garlic Mustard - New insights into the ecology and management of an old adversary'' handout ''The Threat of Grass Carp to the Great Lakes'' handout ''Water soldier (Stratiotes aloides) Eradication Efforts in Ontario'' handout ''Salting our Freshwater Ecosystems'' handout ''Connected Waters'' webinar handout ''Creating Healthy, Natural Habitats for Freshwater Fish'' webinar handout ''Plastic pollution in
- [Thank You](https://watersheds.ca/thank-you/) - Thank You For Your Support
- [Past FSC webinars](https://watersheds.ca/past-fsc-webinars/) - "Wildlife Photography Near You - Finding beautiful animals in your own backyard" Alejandro Prescott-Cornejo, Founder (APC Wildlife Photography) and Marketing Associate (Mongabay) - recording "Plastic pollution in the Laurentian Great Lakes - What we know and how we can act" Eden Hataley, Ph.D. Student in the Rochman Lab, Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto
- [Thank you for protecting Canada's freshwater!](https://watersheds.ca/thankyou/) - Find out how you can get involved Watersheds Canada has been working on freshwater issues for over 20 years and we have learned a lot about what people and local groups need in order to keep their freshwater healthy. Along with supporting and collaborating with other organizations, we develop programs and pilot them in our
- [Download a "Guide to Preparing a Shoreline Naturalization Planting Plan"!](https://watersheds.ca/download-planting-plan/) - You will receive access to the resource after you complete the below form. By providing your email, you agree to be added to Watersheds Canada online mailing list and receive occasional electronic communications. You can unsubscribe at any time via a link provided in each communication. For more information, you may contact us at info@watersheds.ca
- [Download "A Regulatory Guide to Achieving Environmental Net Gain at the Waterfront"!](https://watersheds.ca/download-net-gain-document/) - You will receive access to the document after you complete the below form. By providing your email, you agree to be added to Watersheds Canada online mailing list and receive occasional electronic communications. You can unsubscribe at any time via a link provided in each communication. For more information, you may contact us at info@watersheds.ca
- [Download "The Science Behind Vegetated Shoreland Buffers" document!](https://watersheds.ca/download-the-science-of-shoreland-buffers/) - You will receive access to the document after you complete the below form. By providing your email, you agree to be added to Watersheds Canada online mailing list and receive occasional electronic communications. You can unsubscribe at any time via a link provided in each communication. For more information, you may contact us at info@watersheds.ca
- [A Green Guide to Cottage Care](https://watersheds.ca/green-cottage-care-guide/) - You will receive access to the guide after you complete the below form. By providing your email, you agree to be added to Watersheds Canada online mailing list and receive occasional electronic communications. You can unsubscribe at any time via a link provided in each communication. For more information, you may contact us at info@watersheds.ca
- [Lake Links 2022](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2022/) - At this year’s workshop, we learned how associations have recognized threats on their lakes and rivers, and what steps they have taken to address them. As well, we met the 5th recipient of the Gord Rodgers Memorial Award, Barbara King. This event was generously funded by Cataraqui Conservation, Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority, Rideau Valley Conservation
- [Lake Protection Workbook](https://watersheds.ca/lake-protection-workbook/) - The “Lake Protection Workbook: A Self-Assessment Tool for Shoreline Property Owners” is an educational tool that helps property owners make improvements to their shorelines and it provides information about lake protection. This project was produced by the Lake Links Planning Committee with collaboration and review from many organizations including: Cataraqui Conservation, Friends of the Tay
- ["Sustainable Waterfront Planning Through Reconciliation" webinar](https://watersheds.ca/planning-for-our-shorelands/reconcilitation-workshop-resources/) - "Sustainable Waterfront Planning Through Reconciliation" webinar To make informed decisions around waterfront development proposals, stormwater management plans and environmental impact studies are often used to communicate the impacts of development from a western science perspective. But how about Indigenous science? To further the efforts of the Ontario Professional Planners Institute's Indigenous Planning Perspectives Task Force, the Planning For
- [Download the Building Resilient Shorelines Guide!](https://watersheds.ca/download-building-resilient-shorelines-guide/) - You will receive access to the booklet after you complete the below form. By providing your email, you agree to be added to Watersheds Canada online mailing list and receive occasional electronic communications. You can unsubscribe at any time via a link provided in each communication. For more information, you may contact us at info@watersheds.ca * required
- [Download the Shoreline Habitat Creation Manual!](https://watersheds.ca/habitat-creation-manual-download/) - You will receive access to the booklet after you complete the below form. By providing your email, you agree to be added to Watersheds Canada online mailing list and receive occasional electronic communications. You can unsubscribe at any time via a link provided in each communication. For more information, you may contact us at info@watersheds.ca *required field
- ["Planning for our Shorelands: A resource to help conserve the Ribbon of Life in Ontario’s Municipalities"](https://watersheds.ca/planning-for-our-shorelands/pfos-a-resource-to-help-conserve-the-ribbon-of-life-in-ontarios-municipalities/) - Planning for our Shorelands: A resource to help conserve the Ribbon of Life in Ontario’s Municipalities Planning for our Shorelands is a collaborative project bringing together expert planners, scientists, and lake stewards from across Ontario. Its objective is to provide meaningful best-management practice resources and ‘shoreland networking’ opportunities for those who influence Ontario’s lakes and
- ["Planning Tools for Shoreline Protection: The Community Planning Permit System" webinar](https://watersheds.ca/planning-for-our-shorelands/pfos-cpps-webinar/) - "Planning Tools for Shoreline Protection: The Community Planning Permit System" webinar This webinar was originally recorded on November 17, 2021 for the Freshwater Stewardship Community webinar series. Shoreline protection in municipalities is best achieved through appropriate land use planning tools. In Ontario, the community planning permit system (CPPS) is a land use planning tool that
- [Download the Fish Habitat Enhancement Toolkit!](https://watersheds.ca/download-the-fish-habitat-enhancement-toolkit/) - You will receive access to the Fish Habitat Enhancement Toolkit after you complete the below form. By providing your email, you agree to be added to Watersheds Canada online mailing list and receive occasional electronic communications. You can unsubscribe at any time via a link provided in each communication. For more information, you may contact
- [Download the Native Plant Care Guide!](https://watersheds.ca/download-native-plant-guide/) - You will receive access to the booklet after you complete the below form. By providing your email, you agree to be added to Watersheds Canada online mailing list and receive occasional electronic communications. You can unsubscribe at any time via a link provided in each communication. For more information, you may contact us at info@watersheds.ca *required field
- [Nature Discovery Backpack lending library (Perth)](https://watersheds.ca/pbackpack/) - Watersheds Canada, in partnership with YAK Youth Services and Friends of the Tay Watershed, launched a Nature Discovery Backpack library in 2021. Thirty Ontario-curriculum linked Backpacks were available for students in grades 7-12. Each Backpack included all necessary activities and field equipment, such as a Water Rangers tiny test kit, aquatic dip net, field notebook,
- [Lake Links 2021](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2021/) - At this year’s workshop, we celebrated 20 years of Lake Links and learned about connecting our values with the actions we take in order to protect our lakes and rivers. We revisited the Lake Protection Workbook and highlighted actions that property owners have taken. As well, we congratulated the 4th recipient of the Gord Rodgers
- [What's New](https://watersheds.ca/announcements/) - What's New at Watersheds Canada? Watersheds Canada hosts, co-hosts and promotes various events, including workshops, forums, and shoreline plantings. Here, you'll also find press releases, announcements, and more!
- [Lake Links 2020](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2020/) - Normally held each year in Perth, Ontario, Lake Links 2020 was hosted online. The year's theme was "Effective Engagement for Positive Action". The event ran from 10am-12pm on Saturday, October 24th. This event was generously funded by the S.M. Blair Family Foundation, Cataraqui Conservation, Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority, Rideau Valley Conservation Authority, and Federation of
- [Fish Habitat Enhancement Toolkit](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/fish-toolkit/) - Fish Habitat Enhancement Toolkit In partnership with the Lanark County Stewardship Council, Watersheds Canada is proud to announce the creation and distribution of a free Fish Habitat Enhancement Toolkit. Generously funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation, the Fish Habitat Enhancement Toolkit will provide grassroots organizations and community groups with project guides, updated protocols, and
- [Lake Links 2012](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2012-outreach/) - 11th Annual Lake Links Workshop: Climate Change - How to Build Resiliency in our Lakes The 11th Annual Lake Links Workshop, Climate Change - How to Build Resiliency in our Lakes, was held at the Perth Civitan Hall on Saturday, October 20th, 2012. Over 100 attendees, including landowners, environmental group representatives, municipal staff members, and lake association
- [New App for Algae](https://watersheds.ca/blog/new-app-for-algae/) - New App for Algae EASTERN ONTARIO, August 24, 2015 — Algae and aquatic plant observations can now be made on your smart phone. The People, Aquatic Plants and Healthy Lakes Project has just released an Android app for lake and river users to report any algae or aquatic plants that they observe on their waterbody.
- [Lake Links 2011](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2011/) - Lake Links 2011 On Saturday October 29, 2011 at the Perth Civitan Hall over 160 participants gathered for a timely discussion on: The Lake Capacity Model, watershed planning tools and successful lake development case studies. View the Event Summary. View the Information Package, including the poster, agenda, and additional workshop information. View or download the guest speakers' presentations: Joy Steritt,
- [Gottlieb Lake Stewardship Grant](https://watersheds.ca/stewardship-grant/) - Daniel and Susan Gottlieb Lake Stewardship Grant Program Watersheds Canada, in partnership with the Daniel and Susan Gottlieb Foundation, provides financial support to volunteer groups for projects that have a positive impact on the health of our lakes. This Lake Stewardship Granting Program provides up to $500 per association for education and action projects that
- [Lake Links 2019](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2019/) - At the 18th Annual Lake Links workshop, we learned about the many citizen science initiatives available. Keynote speaker, Kat Kavanaugh of the Water Rangers, spoke on: Enhancing, Restoring & Exploring: Applications for Citizen Science on Your Lake. Watersheds Canada is one of the many organizations that make Lake Links possible each year. Representatives from Rideau
- [Lake Links 2017](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2017/) - “Beyond the Shoreline: Science to Stewardship” Saturday October 21st, 2017 from 8:30 am-4:00 pm Perth Civitan Hall, 6787 County Road 43, Perth, Ontario. The 16th annual workshop explored the inseparable connection between lakes and upland areas. We learned about how lake health is impacted by EVERYTHING that lies beyond the shoreline. Scientists, lake associations, and
- [Lake Links 2020 evaluation survey](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2020/evaluation/) - Loading…
- [Blog](https://watersheds.ca/blog/)
- [Link Links 2019](https://watersheds.ca/lakelinks2019/)
- [Walleye Spawning Bed Enhancements](https://watersheds.ca/our-work/habitat-programs/walleye-spawning-bed-enhancements/) - Walleye Spawning Bed Enhancement in Ontario Walleye, also known as pickerel, are a highly prized sports fish and an important part of the biodiversity in many waters of Ontario. If you have walleye in your lake or river, you may be able to help strengthen their populations by enhancing walleye spawning beds. This "how to"
- [Lake Links 2018](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2018/) - “Our Lake, My Responsibility - Our Reward" Saturday October 20th, 2018 from 8:30 am-3:15 pm Perth Civitan Hall, 6787 County Road 43, Perth, Ontario. The 17th annual workshop examined the importance of good property level decisions, provided details of an active lake stewardship program, and offered input from local experts. To view the 2018 agenda click
- [Contact: The Natural Edge](https://watersheds.ca/contact-the-natural-edge/)
- [Lake Links 2014](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2014/) - Lake Links 2014 In preparation for the 2014 Lake Links workshop in Perth, a survey was conducted to learn about the experience of lake associations in preparing and implementing their lake plans. The theme of the workshop was 'Lake Communities in Action' and the responses from the survey provided significant insight about the benefits, challenges,
- [Lake Links 2015](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2015/)
- [Lake Links 2016](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2016/)
- [Lake Links 2013](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2013/) - Lake Links 2013 Workshop The Lake Landscape – From Political to Practical The 2013 Lake Links Workshop was held in Perth, Ontario, on Saturday, October 19th. View or download the Workshop Details. About the 2013 Lake Links Workshop – What’s it all about? This year’s workshop focused on strategies for community engagement. Representatives from local
- [Plant Search Results](https://watersheds.ca/plant-search/)
- [Plant Search Post](https://watersheds.ca/plant-search-post/)
- [Plant List](https://watersheds.ca/plant-list/) - You don't have anything on your list yet. Click "Back" to browse our plant database and click on "Add to My List" from any plant to start building your customised plant list. When you're done, come back to this page and you can save, edit and print your list.
- [Plant Add List](https://watersheds.ca/plant-add-list/)
- [add plants](https://watersheds.ca/add-plants-2/)
- [Lake Links 2009](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2009/) - Lake Links 2009 Ontario's lakes are facing more and more challenges because of increased development and greater use. It is vital that we understand our impacts on the health of our lakes and learn how to monitor and reduce those impacts. The theme of the 8th Annual Lake Links Workshop, held on Saturday, October 24,
- [Lake Links 2008](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2008/) - Lake Links 2008 The 7th Annual Lake Links Workshop was held on October 25th, 2008 at the Perth Lions Hall at the Perth Fairgrounds. Over 75 participants from various lake groups throughout the region learned about the effects of artificial lighting on aquatic systems and explored the Lakeshore Capacity Assessment tool that can be used
- [Lake Links 2007](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2007/) - Lake Links 2007 The 6th Annual Lake Links Workshop was held on October 20th, 2007 at the Perth and District Collegiate Institute in Perth, Ontario. With representation from over 16 government agencies (municipalities, provincial and federal organizations), non-government and volunteer organizations, along with representation from 22 lake associations, there were over 60 participants in attendance.
- [Lake Links 2010](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2010/) - Lake Links 2010 Bringing Lake Links back to its roots, the focus of the 9th Annual Lake Links Workshop, held on October 30th, 2010 at the Perth Civitan Hall, was on networking and information sharing. The theme ‘Celebrating our Advances’ was the backdrop for learning more about each other, including projects, successes and challenges, and
- [Newsletter Thank You](https://watersheds.ca/newsletter-thank-you/) - Thank You You have been added to our Newsletter Mailing List
- [Thank You](https://watersheds.ca/contact/thank-you/) - Thank You! We have received your message and we'll be in touch soon.
- [Thank You](https://watersheds.ca/blog/thank-you/) - Thank You Your comment has been received and is pending approval.

## Events

- [Lake Links 2019](https://watersheds.ca/lake-links-2019/) - 2019 Lake Links Workshop Join us for the 18th Annual Lake Links workshop to learn about the many citizen science initiatives available to you. Join keynote speaker, Kat Kavanaugh of the Water Rangers, for this year’s theme: Enhancing, Restoring & Exploring: Applications for Citizen Science on Your Lake. A full schedule will be available closer to the event. Lake

## Plant

- [Purple Coneflower](https://watersheds.ca/plant/purple-coneflower/)
- [Wild Columbine](https://watersheds.ca/plant/wild-columbine/)
- [Showy Tick Trefoil](https://watersheds.ca/plant/showy-tick-trefoil/)
- [Fireweed](https://watersheds.ca/plant/fireweed/)
- [Indian Paintbrush](https://watersheds.ca/plant/indian-paintbrush/)
- [Common Milkweed](https://watersheds.ca/plant/common-milkweed/)
- [Butterfly Milkweed](https://watersheds.ca/plant/butterfly-milkweed/)
- [Yarrow](https://watersheds.ca/plant/yarrow/)
- [Woodland Sunflower](https://watersheds.ca/plant/woodland-sunflower/)
- [Ten-Petaled Sunflower](https://watersheds.ca/plant/ten-petaled-sunflower/)
- [Wild Bergamot](https://watersheds.ca/plant/wild-bergamot/)
- [Black-Eyed Susan](https://watersheds.ca/plant/black-eyed-susan/)
- [Boneset](https://watersheds.ca/plant/boneset/)
- [White Turtlehead](https://watersheds.ca/plant/white-turtlehead/)
- [Blue Vervain](https://watersheds.ca/plant/blue-vervain/)
- [Blue Flag Iris](https://watersheds.ca/plant/blue-flag-iris/)
- [Swamp Milkweed](https://watersheds.ca/plant/swamp-milkweed/)
- [Spotted Joe-Pye Weed](https://watersheds.ca/plant/spotted-joe-pye-weed/)
- [Northern Bayberry](https://watersheds.ca/plant/northern-bayberry/)
- [Nodding Onion](https://watersheds.ca/plant/nodding-onion/)
- [Giant Hyssop](https://watersheds.ca/plant/giant-hyssop/)
- [Tall Cinquefoil](https://watersheds.ca/plant/tall-cinquefoil/)
- [Silverberry](https://watersheds.ca/plant/silverberry/)
- [Bebb Willow](https://watersheds.ca/plant/bebb-willow/)
- [Indian Grass](https://watersheds.ca/plant/indian-grass/)
- [Canada Wild Rye](https://watersheds.ca/plant/canada-wild-rye/)
- [Big Bluestem](https://watersheds.ca/plant/big-bluestem/)
- [Prairie Cord Grass](https://watersheds.ca/plant/prairie-cord-grass/)
- [Switch Grass](https://watersheds.ca/plant/switch-grass/)
- [Plantain-Leaved Sedge](https://watersheds.ca/plant/plantain-leaved-sedge/)
- [Red Pine](https://watersheds.ca/plant/red-pine/)
- [Winterberry](https://watersheds.ca/plant/winterberry/)
- [Lowbush Blueberry](https://watersheds.ca/plant/lowbush-blueberry/)
- [Common Blue Violet](https://watersheds.ca/plant/common-blue-violet/)
- [Prairie Thistle](https://watersheds.ca/plant/prairie-thistle/)
- [Blue Lobelia](https://watersheds.ca/plant/blue-lobelia/)
- [Flat Topped White Aster](https://watersheds.ca/plant/flat-topped-white-aster/)
- [Wild Black Currant](https://watersheds.ca/plant/wild-black-currant/)
- [Alderleaf Buckthorn](https://watersheds.ca/plant/alderleaf-buckthorn/)
- [Beaked Hazel](https://watersheds.ca/plant/beaked-hazel/)
- [Bladdernut](https://watersheds.ca/plant/bladdernut/)
- [Bog Rosemary](https://watersheds.ca/plant/bog-rosemary/)
- [Canada Yew](https://watersheds.ca/plant/canada-yew/)
- [Common Spicebush](https://watersheds.ca/plant/common-spicebush/)
- [Fly Honeysuckle](https://watersheds.ca/plant/fly-honeysuckle/)
- [Hairy Honeysuckle](https://watersheds.ca/plant/hairy-honeysuckle/)
- [Kalm St. Johnswort](https://watersheds.ca/plant/kalm-st-johnswort/)
- [Labrador Tea](https://watersheds.ca/plant/labrador-tea/)
- [Leather Leaf](https://watersheds.ca/plant/leather-leaf/)
- [Large Cranberry](https://watersheds.ca/plant/large-cranberry/)
- [Low Sweet Blueberry (Lowbush Blueberry)](https://watersheds.ca/plant/low-sweet-blueberry-lowbush-blueberry/)
- [Mountain Fly Honeysuckle](https://watersheds.ca/plant/mountain-fly-honeysuckle/)
- [Mountain Holly](https://watersheds.ca/plant/mountain-holly/)
- [Shadblow Serviceberry](https://watersheds.ca/plant/shadblow-serviceberry/)
- [Shellbark Hickory](https://watersheds.ca/plant/shellbark-hickory/)
- [Shrubby Cinquefoil](https://watersheds.ca/plant/shrubby-cinquefoil/)
- [Shrubby St. John's wort](https://watersheds.ca/plant/shrubby-st-johns-wort/)
- [Small Cranberry](https://watersheds.ca/plant/small-cranberry/)
- [Smooth Blackberry](https://watersheds.ca/plant/smooth-blackberry/)
- [Smooth Wild Rose](https://watersheds.ca/plant/smooth-wild-rose/)
- [Steeplebush](https://watersheds.ca/plant/steeplebush/)
- [Swamp Black Currant](https://watersheds.ca/plant/swamp-black-currant/)
- [Velvetleaf Blueberry](https://watersheds.ca/plant/velvetleaf-blueberry/)
- [Virgin's Bower](https://watersheds.ca/plant/virgins-bower/)
- [Large-Tooth Aspen](https://watersheds.ca/plant/large-tooth-aspen/)

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://watersheds.ca/category/uncategorized/)
- [Blog](https://watersheds.ca/category/blog/)
- [Natural Edge](https://watersheds.ca/category/natural-edge/)
- [Lake Links](https://watersheds.ca/category/lake-links/)
- [Stewardship Grant Program](https://watersheds.ca/category/stewardship-grant-program/)
- [Announcements](https://watersheds.ca/category/announcements/)
- [Planning for our Shorelands](https://watersheds.ca/category/planning-for-our-shorelands/)
- [Education](https://watersheds.ca/category/education/)

## Tags

- [Natural Edge](https://watersheds.ca/tag/natural-edge/)
- [Bats](https://watersheds.ca/tag/bats/)
- [Bat Boxes](https://watersheds.ca/tag/bat-boxes/)
- [Bat Houses](https://watersheds.ca/tag/bat-houses/)

## Plant Type

- [Wildflower](https://watersheds.ca/themes/wildflower/)