The Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA) has received $100,000 from Ontario’s Great Lakes Local Action Fund to help protect, restore, and conserve the Nottawasaga River, Georgian Bay, and the Great Lakes.
The Nottawasaga River, which originates near Orangeville and flows 150 kilometres north into Georgian Bay at Wasaga Beach, provides vital habitat for trout, salmon, and many native fish species. However, urban development, agriculture, and climate change continue to threaten water quality and cold-water habitats in the watershed.
With this funding, NVCA and its partners will complete restoration work along cold-water streams, the main Nottawasaga River, and sensitive coastal wetlands. Projects include planting 3,250 native streamside trees, restoring wetland and stream habitats, installing livestock fencing, and removing invasive species such as phragmites. Volunteers will also help monitor the abundance of Lake Sturgeon, a species at risk.
“This initiative empowers communities to take meaningful action to improve water quality and restore vital aquatic habitats,” says Todd McCarthy, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks.
NVCA Aquatic Biologist Sarah Campbell added that the restoration work is “community driven,” with support from partners such as Nottawasaga Futures-South Simcoe Streams Network, Friends of the Mad River, and Saugeen Ojibway Nation.
Volunteer opportunities are available from July to November.
For details on how to get involved, click here.
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