Editor's note: This article has been updated to correct the date of the Walk for Wetlands. The walk will take place Saturday, not Friday as originally stated.
A local naturalist has formed a new group to raise awareness about the importance of wetlands, and two upcoming events are intended to do just that.
As his concerns about the state of wetlands continued to mount, Bob Bowles decided it was time to start Orillia Wetland Watchers, backed by “great support from very intelligent people” who have joined the group.
“We have a problem with people, especially politicians, not understanding what wetlands are and how important they are,” he said. “I watch the erosion of these special habitats, and it’s not just because people don’t care; they just don’t understand.”
While wetland is in the name, the group is drawing attention to all natural heritage features, including woodlands and greenbelts.
“It’s about more than just wetlands. We need all of these features to clean our air and water,” Bowles said.
Orillia Wetland Watchers has organized two events to raise awareness and educate people about wetlands.
The first is a Walk for Wetlands. It will take place Saturday. Members of the public are encouraged to meet in front of the Orillia Opera House at 11 a.m. The group will then walk to the Orillia City Centre.
“It’s a quiet, respectful walk for the wetlands we’ve lost,” Bowles said.
A description on the Facebook event page states the goal is to “send a message to Mayor (Steve) Clarke and council that they need to keep their ‘hands off wetlands.’”
Orillia Wetland Watchers has also teamed up with the Orillia Fish and Game Conservation Club for a Family Day snowshoe excursion Monday at the George Langman Sanctuary on Bass Lake Sideroad.
Those interested in the free event can show up between 1 and 3 p.m. They will learn about the wetlands and wildlife in that area. They can also enjoy a bonfire and refreshments provided by the conservation club.
Depending on the weather, snowshoes might not be needed. If they are, participants are encouraged to bring their own if they have them. Snowshoes will be available for those who don’t have their own.
The event could be postponed if there is freezing rain or extreme cold. Keep an eye on the Facebook event page for details.
For more information on Orillia Wetland Watchers, check out the Facebook group.
