This year, the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority is sending a “shout out” to environmental heroes throughout the watershed.
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Laurier Woods Conservation Area is a 240-acre gem within North Bay boundaries. It is uniquely co-owned and co-managed by NBMCA and a not-for-profit group called Friends of Laurier Woods.
The Friends was established in 1989 and together with Nipissing Naturalists Club championed a petition with over 2,000 signatures to persuade the City to accept that this land should be preserved in its natural state.
The Friends worked hand in hand with NBMCA and the City to purchase land in 1996, 2001, 2009, and most recently a 100-acre parcel in 2011 The Friends raised $85,000 from more than 150 local donors for this. Chris Mayne assisted with this campaign.
Friends of Laurier Woods have raised funds to facilitate these purchases and have worked diligently to ensure not only the protection of this unique wetland complex but also 6.5 km of safe walking trails.
They host educational hikes and events, bird-watching events, and facilitate passive recreation and education so that awareness and protection of Laurier Woods’ key features are heightened.
Their volunteers oversee much of the maintenance of the trails within Laurier Woods Conservation Area in cooperation with NBMCA lands staff Troy, Adam and Layne.
As part of NBMCA’s 50th anniversary is proud to acknowledge Friends of Laurier Woods as Watershed Heroes!
Who is an environmental hero? A youth, adult, educator, organization, or business which has contributed to the preservation, protection, improvement of the environment in our watershed.
At the end of year, NBMCA will present an award to one hero in each of the five categories as the 2022 Environmental Hero of the Year. NBMCA is inviting you to submit the name of someone who deserves recognition as a watershed hero online here.
Email: [email protected] or call 705-474-5420.
