LANARK COUNTY, October 8, 2020 — The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) supports Lanark County’s commitment to plant one million trees through its landowner tree planting program. The RVCA’s program has helped landowners in watershed municipalities plant trees for over 27 years with technical advice, site preparation and planting of native seedlings. The program also offers substantial subsidized costs.

Climate and the environment are highlighted as Lanark County’s top five priorities this term and are an important part of its Climate Action Plan, which launched this past January. As part of the plan, the County launched its One Million Tree program which aims to plant one million trees over the next ten years.

“Each year the RVCA plants around 90,000 trees in Lanark County and that fits right in with the One Million Tree Program. RVCA’s programs are a great way to get more trees in the ground,” said Kurt Greaves, Lanark County’s Chief Administrative Officer. “Tree planting is a proven way to sequester carbon out of the atmosphere, which dovetails perfectly with our Climate Action Plan.”  

To participate, landowners need a minimum of one acre (0.4 hectares) and be willing to plant at least 1,000 trees. RVCA forestry staff will meet with landowners (following COVID-safe directives) to create a planting plan specific to the site’s conditions and the landowner’s wishes. And, in the spring, RVCA will prepare the land, plant healthy, native tree seedlings, and will help maintain the new, growing forest. The average cost for this full-service planting program is usually $3/tree, but landowners in the RVCA watershed typically only pay $0.15/tree ($120/acre) because RVCA’s funding partners pay the rest.

If you are interested in planting in 2021, now is the time to set things in motion with a free site visit.

“We’ve planted more than 6.6 million trees in the watershed since 1983 and are looking to plant more,” said Dan Cooper, RVCA’s Director of Conservation Lands and Stewardship. “We are happy to support Lanark and its member municipalities’ goal to plant one million trees and assist landowners who are looking to reforest their idle land. We are here to help.”

For those interested in planting one or two trees, watch for the 2021 spring tree give-away. Last June, the County and RVCA hosted a free tree-giveaway that saw over 1,200 trees distributed to keen planters of all ages. Watch for details on the Lanark County and RVCA social media feeds next spring.

To plant this coming spring, book your free site now. Contact Dan Cooper at 613-692-3571 or 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1124 or .

-end-

For more information:

Dan Cooper
Director, Conservation Lands and Stewardship
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-3571 or 1-80-267-3504 ext. 1124

RIDEAU RIVER WATERSHED (Westport, Perth, Smiths Falls, Kemptville, Ottawa and all the wonderful watershed communities along the way), October 2, 2020 — Members of the Rideau Valley Conservation Foundation (RVCF) celebrated 50 years of conservation at its September 23 Annual General Meeting. Since 1970, the RVCF has dedicated itself to raising funds that support important conservation efforts throughout the Rideau River watershed. Efforts include conservation land acquisition, tree planting, outdoor education, water quality monitoring, infrastructure improvements at conservation areas and so much more.

“We are very proud of the work we do,” said RVCF Chair Jason Kelly. “Since 1994, we have raised over $6.6 million for our conservation work and we are guardians to over 525 hectares of important natural spaces. We are inspired and look forward to continuing the good work that keeps our watershed healthy and resilient.”

And while the COVID-19 pandemic has put a damper on RVCF anniversary celebrations, it has shone a light on the ongoing need to protect natural lands — a cause that the RVCF holds very close to its heart.

“More than ever, we need natural spaces for our health and wellbeing. Local conservation lands provide safe and accessible trails and outdoor learning opportunities — places for physical, mental and spiritual rejuvenation,” said Mr. Kelly.

To achieve this aim, the Foundation’s 2020 fundraising campaign looks to grow the Steve Simmering Conservation Land Endowment fund, which ensures our local, conservation lands are protected, improved and held safely in public hands for future generations to enjoy. Established in 2010 in memory of Steve Simmering, an active outdoorsman and vice chair of the RVCF, the endowment has been slowly growing and supporting the Rideau Valley’s vibrant and vital outdoor spaces. So far, RVCF has received over $30,000 in donations of the $125,000 it seeks to raise. The RVCF looks to find new supporters so it can continue important conservation efforts.

If you love your local conservation lands and green spaces, please consider donating to the Steve Simmering Endowment Fund. Every dollar donated contributes to excellence in conservation for the benefit of generations to come. Visit www.rvcf.ca to donate or for more information.

The RVCF wants to thank its partners, supporters, donors, staff, and its board of director members over the past 50 years for their help, dedication, and support,” says Mr. Kelly. “Truly, we couldn’t have done it without you. We look forward to successful conservation work in the future.”

RVCF’s Highlights

• Founded in 1970
• Raised more than $6.6 million in support of conservation work
• Proud custodian of over 525 hectares (1,299 acres) of conservation land
• Celebrates and acknowledges over 330 watershed donors
• Supported planting 6.6 million trees to date
• Funds conservation area infrastructure work such as the boardwalk and pedestrian bridges at the Chapman Mills Conservation Area
• Supports conservation projects such as the Hutton Creek Marsh Restoration Project
• Provides subsidies to schools for outdoor education programs
• Launched Steve Simmering endowment Fund in 2010 to protect vital conservation lands
• Accredited member of Imagine Canada’s Standards Program since 2017
• Joined Imagine Canada’s Ethical Code Program in 2010
• Proud member of Ontario and Canada Land Trust Alliances

- end-

For more information:
Diane Downey, Executive Director
Rideau Valley Conservation Foundation

RIDEAU LAKES / WESTPORT, October 1, 2020 – Foley Mountain Conservation Area is a popular fall destination. Known for its breathtaking views and scenic hiking trails, Foley Mountain continues to welcome guests for much needed outdoor fun.

“Fall is an exceptionally popular time to experience Foley Mountain,” said Rebecca Whiteman, Foley Mountain Conservation Area Supervisor. “And while we continue to welcome guests, we want everyone to be prepared for a safe and enjoyable experience.”

What does that mean? Well, during these Covid-19 times here are a few things to know before making the trip out:

• Practice physical distancing rules.
• Wear a mask at viewing locations such as the popular Spy Rock and anytime when physical distancing is not possible.
• Follow directional signs on trails and yield to oncoming trail users when necessary.
• Come equipped with water and hand sanitizer (outhouses are open).
• Pay $7 day pass using credit card or coins (bills are NOT accepted) at the pay machine or purchase your pass online using the PayByPhone App when you arrive on site (visit rvca.ca/foley-mountain for details). Staff will not be accepting cash payment on site.
• You may be turned away if park capacity has been reached. Be sure to have alternate plans in the surrounding area if you are making a special trip.
• As visitors leave the park, others will be allowed to enter. Please limit your visits to allow others an opportunity to enjoy these parks.

Staff will be onsite during busy weekends to limit the number of visitors in the park and those gathering on viewing platforms. The Spy Rock viewing area will be limited to 25 people and masks are strongly recommended.

“Our guests continue to grow in number. We want to remain open, but want everyone to be as safe as possible,” says Whitman. “Everyone’s cooperation is greatly appreciated.”

To learn more about Foley Mountain Conservation Area, visit www.rvca.ca/foley-mountain or follow the Foley Mountain Facebook page at @foleymountain.

- end -

For more information:
Rebecca Whitman
Foley Mountain Conservation Area Supervisor
613-273-3255

RIDEAU, GOULBOURN AND WEST CARLETON, September 28, 2020 — Tired of looking at empty fields, don’t know what to do with idle farmlands or marginal land? Why not fill them with healthy, native trees! Sign up now and take advantage of RVCA's subsidies to convert idle land into tomorrow’s forests.

“RVCA’s tree planting programs come with significant subsidies that will help landowners plan, prepare, plant, and maintain their new forests,” said Dan Cooper, Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) Director, Conservation Lands and Stewardship. “What better way to transform fallow land into future woodlands.”  

Typical costs for the RVCA’s full-service tree-planting program are $0.15/tree ($120/acre). The RVCA and its planting partners cover all additional costs. Landowners interested in having one acre or more (0.4 hectares) planted in trees should meet with RVCA staff to start planning now.

“We've been planting trees since 1983 and, in total, we’ve planted more than 6.6 million trees. We are looking to plant more!” said Cooper. “Helping landowners meet their reforestation needs is our goal — our tree planting programs are low-cost and full-service!”

Idle and unproductive land can eventually establish new forests by natural succession, but this takes many, many years. A faster way is to opt for RVCA’s tree planting programs. They will help move the process along by planting healthy, native tree seedlings suited for the specific site.

Once signed up, landowners can expect an RVCA forestry expert to meet with them to discuss their specific needs. Staff will assess the site and create a unique, individualized planting plan. You can bet RVCA will plant the right tree in the right place to ensure the best chance of survival and growth.

To plant this coming spring, book your free site now. Contact Dan Cooper, RVCA Director, Conservation Lands and Stewardship at 613-692-3571 or 1-800-267-3504, ext. 1124 or  .

-end-

For more information:
Dan Cooper
Director, Conservation Lands and Stewardship
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-3571 ext. 1124

OUTDOOR EDUCATION INTERPRETER

Foley Mountain Conservation Area

Supply List

$18 - $20/hour

The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is the lead inter-municipal agency working to address river-related environmental issues and concerns within the Rideau Valley watershed. It’s our job to make sure that the water is looked after by everyone in today’s society so that tomorrow’s generations inherit a clean, healthy, functioning watershed. We also provide residents with close-to-home natural areas and programs that are accessible and affordable. We currently own and maintain a network of nine Conservation Areas and an additional 4,500 acres of environmental land.

You would be working at Foley Mountain Conservation Area located just outside of Westport, ON. There is no public transportation to the worksite. Candidates should ensure they have reliable transportation prior to applying..

ON-CALL THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

Work schedule is on an as-needed basis, Monday through Friday with occasional evenings/weekends.

You will assist with the planning, delivery and evaluation of outdoor environmental education programs for children and adults of all ages from preschool to post-secondary studies. Program participants include school groups, Foley Mountain Forest School students, and community groups. Interpreters will mainly be working in an outdoor environment facilitating programs in all kinds of weather conditions. You will also act as a resource person in the Interpretive Centre and you will assist visitors by answering questions about the park and programs, selling park passes, monitoring for valid park passes, and maintaining the cleanliness and safety features of our park facilities.

As the ideal candidate, you have:

• A post-secondary diploma or degree in education, early childhood education, environmental studies, natural science, outdoor recreation or a related program. A Teacher’s certificate and strong knowledge of the natural world are considered strong assets.
• Experience with the Forest School model as well as play-based learning, risky play, loose parts, inquiry-based learning, and a child centered learning environment.
• Previous experience planning and delivering programming for children in an educational or recreational setting in English and/or French.
• A valid G2 or better driver’s license and driving record deemed acceptable by the RVCA.
• The successful candidate will be required to provide an affirmative “Vulnerable Sector Check”.
• Standard First Aid & CPR certification is an asset.
• Bilingualism is considered a strong asset.
• If you enjoy working in the great outdoors, have an enthusiastic attitude towards working with children and have a strong commitment to the environment and the protection of land and water resources, please send us your resume and cover letter. This is an ongoing inventory and qualified candidates will be contacted for assessment as needed.

Human Resources, Rideau Valley Conservation Authority

P.O. Box 599, 3889 Rideau Valley Drive, Manotick, Ontario, K4M 1A5 Fax: (613) 692-0831
e-mail:

Visit us on the web at www.rvca.ca

The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is an equal opportunity employer. The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome all applications; however, we will contact only those candidates selected for consideration.

We are committed to providing accommodations for people with disabilities. If you are selected for an interview and you require an accommodation, we will work with you to meet your needs.

(WCS-LW - 52/2020) September 2, 2020 — Watershed conditions in the Rideau Valley Watershed have returned to “Normal’ under the Ontario Low Water Response Program.

With significant precipitation during the last month, the amount of rainfall received throughout the watershed is at or above average values for this time of year. As a result of this precipitation, stream flows and water levels are now at or above average values for this time of year. Looking ahead, the seven-day weather forecasts suggests we’ll continue to receive more rain.

Parks Canada continues to closely monitor the water levels throughout the Rideau Canal system inside the Rideau Valley watershed. Water levels in the reservoir lakes, located in the upper reaches of the Rideau Valley watershed, are either normal or above normal (i.e., Christie Lake) for this time of year and are expected to decline but this will depend on rainfall amounts received in the coming weeks. Rideau River flows downstream of Big Rideau Lake are now near normal. Water levels in the Rideau River below Smiths Falls are within navigable ranges for this time of year.

Conservation Authority staff continue to monitor conditions and communicate with water managers throughout the watershed. Updates to this message will be issued as conditions warrant.

More resources:

• Ministry of Environment and Climate Change: https://www.ontario.ca/page/managing-your-water-well-times-water-shortage
• Ontario’s Low Water Response program: https://www.ontario.ca/page/low-water-response-program
• RVCA website: www.rvca.ca
• Hourly and daily streamflows and water levels: https://www.rvca.ca/watershed-monitoring-reporting/reporting/streamflow-water-levels

"Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is a partnership of municipalities within the Rideau Valley watershed created under the Conservation Authorities Act to deliver a range of programs in watershed management and natural resource conservation."

Baxter Forest School offers an alternative education in which children spend most of their time outside, playing and learning through experiential, hands-on activities that promote curiosity in an active and authentic learning environment. Students will receive the benefits of repeated and regular visits to a natural area, in a play and inquiry-based education setting.

PLEASE READ our Forest School Frequently Asked Questions for more information.

Location:  7498 Carter Road,  Kars, ON, South of Ottawa — Google map

Sign Up for Spring Forest School:

Please complete the Registration Request Form to be added to our registration list. Upon completion of the form, we will send you a registration package, including the program handbook and other necessary documents. PLEASE NOTE that filling out this form does not necessarily guarantee a space in the program but begins the registration process.

NEW Program Option for Youth (Ages 10-13)

Baxter is excited to welcome a new age group opportunity for older students from 10-13 years old for a forest school session to develop new skills, independence, teamwork, and responsibility while playing, exploring and problem solving in the outdoor environment.

Program Details

• Program sessions offered for ages 4-6, 6-10 and 10-13. Children must be the minimum age for the group by January 1, 2024.
• Cost per child is $55/full day or $30/half day plus HST.
• Payment is due upon registration. All prices below include HST.
• We will do our best to accommodate your requests but reserve the right to alter the schedule based on demand. 

Spring Forest School Sessions (Registration Open!)

Want to try forest school before registering? Email  to inquire about a trial forest school day available for your child. 

Our Community Partners

Low Water? We’re on it! 
Did you know that RVCA monitors low water conditions? Watershed condition statements are issued to keep municipalities and the public up to date on low water conditions. With changing weather patterns, low water levels are happening more often. The Rideau River Water Response Team, co-ordinated through the RVCA, is made up of member municipalities, selected government agencies and others. They review precipitation and streamflow information and, when needed, issue low water condition statements for the watershed. The team tracks low water impacts and would like to hear from anyone who may be experiencing difficulties with wells or any other low water issues, you can email them at . To see the most recent watershed condition messages, visit our website www.rvca.ca/watershed-conditions. Messages also appear on our Facebook page (@RideauValleyConservationAuthority) and on Twitter (@RideauValleyCA). Contact BRIAN for more information at .

If you enjoyed this story, why not read the rest of the Around the Rideau newsletter, or better yet, subscibe and the next edition will be waiting for you in your inbox! Subscribe here. 

(WCS-LW - 4/2020) August 5, 2020 — This statement is to advise that the low water status in the Rideau River watershed is being downgraded to “Minor” from “Moderate” severity under the Ontario Low Water Response Program because of recent precipitation.

Significant rain over the last week pushed 30-day rainfall totals above what is normal for the time of year at most climate monitoring sites in the region. However, the average 90-day rainfall measured at climate stations in and around the watershed is below 80 per cent of normal for this time of year which represents “Minor” low water severity. Looking ahead, the seven-day weather forecast suggests we may receive between 5 and 10 mm of rain across the watershed.

Stream flow values for all waterways are much closer to normal for this time of year compared to a few weeks ago. For example, the measured flows for the Rideau River at Carleton University and the Tay River in Perth are both slightly above 100 percent normal for this time of year. Measured flows for the smaller tributaries such as the Jock River and Kemptville Creek are still below normal for this time of year. Field observations around the watershed indicate that ecological conditions are much improved compared to a few weeks ago. 

Following an early spring freshet this year, Parks Canada are closely monitoring the water levels throughout the Rideau Canal system inside the Rideau Valley watershed. 50-75% lower than normal amounts of precipitation in June and July resulted in below average level and flows conditions across the entire watershed. However, due to the recent significant rainfall received around the reservoir lakes (located in upper part of the watershed), the reservoir lake levels are near and/or above average. Due to the localized nature of the rain events, other nearby lakes located in the upper reaches of the Rideau Valley watershed, remain below normal. Rideau River flows downstream of Big Rideau Lake have been reduced to minimum. Water levels in the Rideau River below Smiths Falls are within navigable ranges but some areas are below average for this time of year.

Watershed residents and businesses are encouraged to voluntarily reduce their water usage by 10 percent. This is especially important for those who have permits for taking water from surface or groundwater sources and all residents on private, communal or municipal wells. There is less of a concern for residents of urban Ottawa because the City of Ottawa central drinking water system draws from the Ottawa River. Residents throughout the watershed should be aware of any bans or bylaws that may be in place in their municipalities regarding fires or watering bans.

Conservation Authority staff continue to monitor conditions and communicate with water managers throughout the watershed. Updates to this message will be issued as conditions warrant.

More resources: 

• Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks: https://www.ontario.ca/page/managing-your-water-well-times-water-shortage
• Ontario’s Low Water Response program: https://www.ontario.ca/page/managing-your-water-well-times-water-shortage
• RVCA website: www.rvca.ca
• Hourly and daily streamflows and water levels: https://www.rvca.ca/watershed-monitoring-reporting/reporting/streamflow-water-levels

 -end-

More Information:
Contact: Brian Stratton, RVCA Manager Engineering Services
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-6804, 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1141

"Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is a partnership of municipalities within the Rideau Valley watershed created under the Conservation Authorities Act to deliver a range of programs in watershed management and natural resource conservation."