Learn to conserve in celebration of World Wetlands Day

Learn to conserve in celebration of World Wetlands Day


Celebrate World Wetlands Day (Feb. 2) by learning how wetlands improve the quality of our lives through an exciting and educational presentation by the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA) - at no charge!

LSRCA encourages schools, youth and community groups to take an active role in caring for our environment, and preserving our natural resources.

"It is important that we educate our youth about the Lake Simcoe watershed and how wetlands enhance our quality of life, not only by helping to ensure safe water, but also through the provision of healthy habitats for human recreation and wildlife," explained LSRCA Chief Administrative Officer Gayle Wood. "Providing exciting learning opportunities about our natural environment is a crucial step to encourage conservation."

LSRCA now offers two curriculum connected presentations for watershed residents; Wetland Wonders, for primary and junior grades, and the new Discover Your Watershed for Grades 7 and 8.

World Wetlands Day originated at the Convention of Wetlands in Ramsar, Iran, 1971, to recognize the importance of wetlands and to formulate a treaty for international cooperation in their conservation.

Wetlands have a vital role in a healthy environment and are among the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet. In Canada, they are home to about 600 plant, mammal, amphibian, reptile, fish, bird and insect species and have a crucial role in the water cycle. Wetlands store and purify surface water, help replenish groundwater resources and can reduce the damaging effects of floods.

The Lake Simcoe watershed is recognized as having one of the highest concentration of wetlands, in Southern Ontario, off the Canadian Shield.

LSRCA encourages groups within the Lake Simcoe watershed, who are interested in booking a presentation at no charge, or to learn more about the presentations offered, to contact Lori McLean at (905) 895-1281 (ext. 242) or e-mail to l.mclean@lsrca.on.ca

Presentations can be modified to suit individual needs.

For more information on the Lake Simcoe Conservation Authority, its Conservation Areas, or education programs, call (905) 895-1281 or visit www.lsrca.on.ca