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Can we learn to co-exist?

In News by couchiching

Rivers are the arteries of life in a landscape, yet in the city we treat them more like rain gutters. North Orillia is fortunate to have a rare cold water stream supporting Brook Trout in its midst, but it is gradually declining in health.  We believe there’s a way to …

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If you go away this Winter don’t forget our top tip

In News by couchiching

Now that the weather is turning colder many of us are turning south. A lot of people enjoy spending, at least some part of, winter in warmer climates. Can you blame them? It always feels so freeing when you can walk outside without the process of hats, boots, mitts and parka first.

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Take Pride in our Region this Earth Day

In News by couchiching

Earth Day is a great time to celebrate the wonders of nature that make this planet special. Our landscape defines us as Canadiansand Earth Day marks a fantastic time on the calendar to look at our landscape and reflect on what we see.

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Stamping out Your Carbon Footprint

In News by couchiching

When brainstorming methods to improve your ecological footprint, the common examples such as recycling, turning the lights off, and carpooling come to mind. There are many other approaches, however, which will help you become more environmentally cautious.

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‘Tis the season for giving back

In News by couchiching

Everywhere you look there are sparkly lights, holiday events and Christmas shoppers. I think Orillia must be one of the most generous communities around – one reason why I love living here.

Notes from the Field: Scout Valley

In Nature Reserves & Easements, News by couchiching

This summer drought has dried up may creeks around the region, and highlighted the importance of protected headwaters. Mill Creek originates in the wetland above Scout Valley and then winds it way through the forest and downhill to join up with Ben’s Ditch.

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Protecting our lake’s lifelines

In Carden Alvar, News, Water by couchiching

Headwaters are like the foundation of a building, and if they are compromised, so is the entire watershed. If the headwater stream stays cold year-round, it is of primary importance because it provides the larger, lower portions of the river with a steady base flow of clean water.

We have a group of volunteers testing these headwaters through a Water Quality Project.