MANOTICK, June 17, 2026 – More than 700 people came out to enjoy hands-on activities, wildlife displays, staff presentations and Birds of Prey shows on June 13 as part of the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority’s 60th Anniversary Community Day in Manotick.
The day began with a formal welcome from all three levels of government, including Carleton MP Bruce Fanjoy, Carleton MPP George Darouze and City of Ottawa Deputy Mayor Wilson Lo. Each congratulated the RVCA on 60 years of conservation, collaboration and partnership to promote a thriving Rideau Valley watershed.
Throughout the day, visitors of all ages enjoyed close-up looks at a painted turtle hatchling, tadpoles, crayfish, leeches and benthic invertebrates.
Younger guests spent time fishing for toy fish and ducks at the stream monitoring station, dressing up as septic and regulations inspectors, and spinning the drinking water trivia wheel to win a treat.
Whether visitors were completing a nature scavenger hunt, following a story trail, learning about water quality, purchasing native wildflowers for their shoreline or checking out the latest septic tech, there was something for everyone.
James Cowan from the Canadian Raptor Conservancy drew large crowds as he showed off a Great Horned Owl, Golden Eagle, American Kestrel and more.
RVCA staff also led engaging presentations about their work to help conserve endangered butternut trees and other species at risk across the watershed.
And no one went hungry, as Fries for Charity was on site all day in support of the Rideau Valley Conservation Foundation, which also ran a snack shack.
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More community events are still to come as the RVCA continues to celebrate all year long. On Saturday July 4, RVCA will sponsor a free beach day at its three public beaches. Baxter Conservation Area will also host a free yoga event in September, and in October RVCA’s forestry team will host a guided hike at Mill Pond Conservation Area near Lombardy. For more details on upcoming events visit www.rvca.ca/adventure. Thanks to everyone who came out to celebrate 60 years of conservation with us! -30- |
