We have launched our seventh annual Passport to Nature program and 17th annual Carden Challenge!
The Passport to Nature program is a series of events throughout the year that help connect people to nature and the many protected areas in our region.
“Our team of volunteers and nature specialists have put together a great line-up,” said Passport to Nature Committee Chair Kathy Hunt. “While some of the activities will be online presentations and downloadable activities, they are all designed to get people inspired about being out in nature.”
Whether you want to learn about forest fungi, different kinds of reptiles, or what those tracks in the snow are, the leaders are keen to share their expertise. You can also join a guided bicycle or hiking tour, and families can have fun creating a homemade nature journal or being a nature detective.
Thanks to the outstanding and generous support of our sponsors, such as Cuisinart, Sojourn Outdoors, Northern Ethical Investments and John Madden of Edward Jones, it’s all free! Additional donations that are made when people register help the Conservancy do even more for nature in our region.
In addition to the Passport program, the Carden Challenge is back for its 17th year. The Challenge is a fundraising event, similar to a walkathon, but instead, teams count as many species as possible in 24 hours. On May 28 – 29, participants will be getting some exercise while staying within an 8km radius of their home. All money raised from this event supports efforts to protect and save the Carden Alvar, a globally rare landscape, just 30 minutes from Orillia. Everyone is welcome to take part – you do not need to be an expert in identifying species, but it is a great opportunity to learn. A love of nature is a must!
The Couchiching Conservancy protects thousands of acres of wilderness in the region, and manages over 13km of trails and footpaths. The Nature Reserves are protected by the community for all communities, from humankind to insects. There is no cost to visit the Reserves, but donations are appreciated. In 2020, over 85% of support that powered the Conservancy came from the community.