The concept of a land trust came to this region in the early 1990s when a handful of motivated people were looking for new ways to preserve wilderness areas.
Introducing kids to nature is good for the future
Our most memorable childhood experiences, those that shape us, take place in the company of a trusted adult. Given the highly protective, restrictive nature of children’s outdoor experiences in today’s world, the presence of an involved adult is key. In essence, these adults act as the gatekeepers of children’s access to the natural world.
Exploring and learning on the alvar
Each year hundreds of people head to the Carden alvar in droves. They are drawn by the landscape and species, but also by two special events hosted by The Couchiching Conservancy featuring the alvar and taking place in late May and early June – Carden Challenge and Carden Alvar Nature Festival.
Bird Watching: Baltimore Oriole
Baltimore Orioles are some of the earliest returning migrants, making their presence known early in May. One of the most spectacularly coloured birds we have the pleasure of hosting each spring – the brilliant orange and black colours of the Baltimore Oriole.
Conservation action made possible by volunteer team
With involvement in more than 40 natural properties and a very small paid staff, The Couchiching Conservancy would be in a tough spot if not for a small army of dedicated volunteers. Many of those volunteers make up property teams which help us look after the lands under our care.
Carden Wildflowers: More than just alvar aesthetics
As a Conservation Assistant completing fieldwork at the Carden Alvar Natural Area with the Couchiching Conservancy, I’ve had the opportunity to observe several wildflowers unique to this globally-rare alvar environment. They impact the various species of wildlife that call Carden home, and are worth appreciating.
Nature Deficit Disorder – we can fix this!
As parents, we are constantly bombarded with all the things that we must be doing wrong. Blame and finger pointing is prevalent. There is even a trendy new label for this crisis of disconnect and inactivity – “Nature Deficit Disorder” – and the reported long-term effects of this syndrome are frightening.
But, here is the good news: we can fix this. We can turn it around. It is not too late.
Volunteers recognized for outstanding contributions
A strong and dedicated group of volunteers brings a fresh perspective and a different sort of energy to the Couchiching Conservancy. Their contributions multiply the resources of the organization in so many ways: by increasing our capacity we can undertake new initiatives in conservation and preservation; our profile in the community is enhanced; our properties are maintained and protected for future generations and volunteers bring new insights and skills to the work we do.
Five things you need to know about the renovation
Keep informed on the office renovation! Grant’s Woods is closed to the public as of May 19, 2015 and we will send a notice to our members and supporters through our e-newsletter once we are open again.
Bird Watching: Ospreys, a large bird of prey
No matter where it is I travel, one bird I can usually count on seeing is the Osprey. Ospreys are one of the most widespread birds in the world and can be found on all continents except Anarctica. They are not difficult to identify as they are one of the largest birds of prey in North America with a wingspan of about five feet.