Spring is a time of renewal – and a powerful reminder that nature needs us, too. As forests green up, birds return, and trails come alive again, there are so many ways to reconnect with the land and make a real difference right here in our region. At The Couchiching …
The Couchiching Conservancy Protects the Blackwell Brady Clark Nature Reserve, Strengthening Wildlife Corridors Near Washago
The Couchiching Conservancy has permanently protected the Blackwell Brady Clark Nature Reserve, a 30-hectare (74-acre) property located just 1.44 kilometres west of Washago, Ontario. This newly secured reserve is a significant step toward connecting two of the region’s most important natural corridors: the Matchedash Wildlands and the Black River Wildlands. …
Field Notes: Whitney Wetland Eco-passage Summer Updates
With the Summer in full swing, many reptiles are mating and nesting near lakes, rivers, and wetlands—which means that the roads adjacent to these areas are an even more perilous place than usual. When roads are built beside or bisecting natural areas, wildlife must either cross them, or risk remaining …
Move From Radio To Couchiching Conservancy A Wild Ride (As originally published in Orillia Matters)
I’m a middle age woman who has just switched careers at 45. It’s terrifying. I worked in media for close to twenty years. I got up at 3:30am, arrived at work to read news headlines, celebrity gossip and stories from around the world before going on air at 5:30. I’d …
The Couchiching Conservancy furthers land protection efforts near Hillsdale thanks to donors
The Couchiching Conservancy has increased land protection thanks to two donors, Sandy Agnew and Lynne Melnyk. The 39.5-acre property, 9km north of Hillsdale, was originally protected under an easement agreement in 2004 and has now been donated outright to the Conservancy. An easement is a legal entity that allows land …
Unveiling of the Deverell-Morton Nature Reserve
On July 13, over 30 people gathered together to celebrate the unveiling of the Deverell-Morton Nature Reserve. At 417-acres, the property is connected to Wolf Run Alvar and North Bear Alvar making a stronger connected corridor of wilderness. We are so grateful to the Deverell-Morton families, our supporters and volunteers …
Orillia Horticultural Society Donates Arboretum to The Couchiching Conservancy
The Orillia Horticultural Society has donated the Sid Pomeroy Arboretum on Division Road West to The Couchiching Conservancy. It will now be called, “Cedar Grove Nature Reserve”. The 7-acre property, located at 1422 Division Road West, connects to nearby Grant’s Woods Nature Reserve by a river flowing through both properties …
Mitchell Bruce Nature Reserve Secured Through Generous Donation
In a significant conservation milestone for the Washago area, the Couchiching Conservancy announced today the protection of 85-acres adjoining Alexander Hope Smith Nature Reserve. The property was donated by Leslie and Irene Bruce who have strong ties to the area, and is named in honour of their late son Mitchell …
Amongst the Trees
As we set off on our adventure to the Adams Nature Reserve, the air was crisp with the first hints of autumn’s arrival. The afternoon sun cast a golden glow down on the changing leaves, painting the forest in a palette of fiery reds, golden yellows, and rustic oranges. The …
Soak up the rest of summer with our events and activities
Are you or your family members looking for unique adventures to get outside and enjoy the remaining weeks of precious summer weather? Then take a look at the events and activities offered by the Couchiching Conservancy through their Passport to Nature program. There are two in-person Passport to Nature events …