We’re excited to begin construction on a wildlife eco-passage to help protect local animals and restore wildlife movement across habitats. Volunteer support is crucial — and we’re looking for help starting Wednesday, June 4th at 10:00 AM.
Why This Matters
Wildlife road mortality is a serious issue in Ontario. Roads can act as deadly barriers for animals trying to move between feeding, nesting, and breeding areas. Species such as turtles, snakes, foxes, and amphibians are especially vulnerable.
This eco-passage will:
- Guide wildlife safely along fencing to designated road crossings
- Reduce collisions between vehicles and animals
- Reconnect movement between corridors that are essential for healthy ecosystems
- Create a long-term solution that benefits biodiversity and the safety of both wildlife and people
This is more than just installing fencing — it’s about building resilience into our landscape and protecting the species we share it with.
Work Schedule & Location
- Start Date: Wednesday, June 4
- Time: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (flexible hours; come and go as needed)
- Location: 3811 Monck Road, Ramara
- Parking: Roadside parking on the gravel shoulder, marked with cones
- Facilities: Note: There are no bathrooms on site
Work will continue throughout the week, with no shifts on the weekend (June 8–9). Additional dates will be announced weekly based on progress and weather.
What Volunteers Will Be Doing
Whether you’re experienced or brand new to this kind of work, your help is valuable. Tasks will vary but may include:
- Clearing vegetation using powered and manual tools
- Digging trenches for fencing (about 1 foot deep)
- Installing fence posts (manual and gas-powered post pounders)
- Securing fencing material to the posts
- Assisting with layout and safety setups
Training and guidance will be provided on site.
What to Bring
To stay comfortable and safe, please bring:
- Refillable water bottle – a refill station will be available
- Work gloves – bring your own if possible (limited extras available)
- Safety glasses – extras will be provided if needed
- Snacks/lunch – there are no food vendors on site
Required Safety Gear
Safety gear is mandatory. Please bring the following if you have them — if not, we will provide limited extras:
- 🥾 Steel-toed boots – limited slip-on toe covers are available; wear sturdy lace-up footwear
- ⛑ Hard hat – extras available on site
- 👕 High-visibility vest – required and will be provided for all volunteers
Sign Up to Volunteer
To help us plan properly, please email Alysha at alysha@couchconservancy.ca and let her know:
- If you have steel-toed boots
- If you have a hard hat
- What day(s)/time(s) you plan to join us
Alysha is maintaining a volunteer schedule and gear inventory — so your reply ensures we’re fully prepared to support everyone safely and efficiently.
Final Notes:
- All volunteers will sign a waiver on site.
- Safety and emergency protocols will be shared before work begins.
- This is outdoor, physical work — dress for the weather, wear long sleeves and pants, and prepare for bugs and sun exposure.
We’re so grateful to have your support on this meaningful project. Whether you can help for one day or several, your time contributes directly to improving the health and safety of our local environment. Let’s build something that lasts — together.