The Otonabee Region Conservation Authority (Otonabee Conservation) is marking its 60th anniversary of providing environmental services to area municipalities and residents with the launch of “Step into Nature ~ Watershed Explorations”.
“We’re really looking forward to sharing our conservation story and highlighting the individuals, and community partners who have made incredible contributions to a conservation legacy,” said Andy Mitchell, Chair of the Board. “Celebrating Otonabee Conservation’s 60th anniversary is a great opportunity to showcase how a healthy natural environment supports thriving communities.”
The early conservation pioneers – among them the late Christine Nornabell, David N. McIntyre, Bill Davidson and Edward Horton – championed Ontario’s Conservation Authorities Program as offering the new approach to natural resources management based on the watershed as the ecological area of focus. When a number of local municipal councils agreed to become involved, this spirit of cooperation lead to the establishment of the Otonabee Region Conservation Authority in 1959.
As Dan Marinigh, Chief Administrative Officer for Otonabee Conservation explains, “Step into Nature ~ Watershed Explorations”, offers a variety of new, self-directed and environmentally-themed activities to enjoy and participate in throughout the year.”
Marinigh encourages residents throughout the Otonabee Region watershed to get outdoors and explore, discover, capture and celebrate 60 years of conservation. The “Step into Nature ~ Watershed Explorations” involves five distinct but connected activities including geocaching, a photo and student art contest and a handy list of 60 fun things to do and explore.
It’s all connected through the new Watershed Map App that Marinigh describes as “a guide to touring the Otonabee Region watershed and discovering some unique natural features and special spaces of 11 conservation and wildlife areas.” The new Map App provides location information, a description of activities and facilities offered at the areas, and useful links to further information. “A variety of mapping tools are available to record your adventure and build upon your explorations. While you’re there, take a photo and enter it in the Photo Contest!” says Marinigh.
Andy Mitchell was also pleased to announce that on July 9th – Otonabee Conservation’s birthday – day use entry into the Warsaw Caves Conservation Area will be free of charge.
Finally, back by popular demand is Discovery Days – the annual series of demonstrations and workshops will once again be hosted at local Conservation Areas!
For the details, please visit the Celebrate 60 Years page!