News from Ontario’s Niagara Parks Commission
(A brief from NAL – If you have never hiked down the gorge of the lower Niagara River through the Niagara Glen, do it if you are physically able to walk down those goorge stairs to the rocky trails below. If you can do it, you will experience one oof the last areas along the Niagara River corridor that is as natural as it was when the first European explorers cast their eyes on it. Thanks to the Niagara Parks Commission for preserving it.)
Exploring the trails in the Niagara Glen. Photo courtesy of Niagara Parks Commission
Niagara Falls, Ontario, April 2015 – The Niagara Parks Commission is pleased to once again be partnering with Forests Ontario, as part of a province-wide free community tree planting event to be held on Saturday, May 2 from 10 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Participants will get the chance to directly support their community in a local reforestation project and learn about the benefits of trees, shade and green urban spaces. The NPC planting site is located directly across the street from the Niagara Glen Nature Centre at 3050 Niagara Parkway.
As a result of its strong partnership with Forests Ontario, NPC has greatly expanded its tree planting program. In 2014, over 30,000 new trees were planted in the Park, including the restoration of over nine hectares (24 acres) at the Legends on the Niagara Golf Course Complex. In 2015, NPC intends to plant an additional 40,000 new trees and seedlings on the over 1,300 hectares of property it is entrusted to protect.
Those wishing to take part in the event, rain or shine, are asked to bring their own shovel, gardening gloves and lots of energy! NPC and Forests Ontario will supply the rest – from the seedlings and trees, to the forestry specialists, mulch and snacks. Appropriate outdoor clothing, sturdy shoes (steel toe if possible), a hat and sunscreen are also recommended. For more information and to register, visit www.forestsontario.ca or call 1-877-646-1193.
Guided Tours of the Niagara Glen
Following the community tree planting event, free guided hiking tours of the Niagara Glen will be taking place beginning at 12:00 p.m., as part of the NPC’s annual “Naturally at the Glen,” educational outreach by the Friends of the Niagara Glen group.
Down in the Niagara Glen, overlooking the fast-flowing waters of the lower Niagara River. File photo courtesy of Niagara Parks Commission
These tours will take visitors on a search of the rare and unique spring blooms, birds and other wildlife, which are found within the magnificent Niagara Glen. Week to week the variety of blooming wildflowers within the Glen change, and spring ephemerals (flowers) such as the Red and White Trilliums, Wild Columbine and Dutchman’s Breeches will only bloom for a short period of time. Join us and have an opportunity to witness and photograph these rare and beautiful blooms and the wildlife that call the Glen their home.
Guided hikes will last approximately one to one and half hours and require proper footwear for rugged terrain. Participants are reminded to stay on marked trails and to follow proper “leave no trace” principles when in the Glen.
Project Tree Cycle Mulch Pick-Up
What better way to kick-off the spring gardening season, than to obtain wood mulch that has been prepared by NPC’s forestry team! Bring your shovel, energy and collection bags. This mulch will be available at no charge to the public, while supplies last, during NPC’s tree planting and community event being held at the Niagara Glen Nature Centre.
About Forests Ontario
Forests Ontario is the voice for our forests. Working to promote a future of healthy forests sustaining healthy people, Forests Ontario is committed to the re-greening of Ontario through tree planting efforts on rural lands and in urban areas, as well as the renewal and stewardship of Ontario’s forests through restoration, education and awareness. Visit www.forestsontario.ca or follow us @Forests_Ontario.
About the Friends of the Niagara Glen Group
The mission of the Friends of the Niagara Glen is to be a self-sustaining and motivated not-for-profit community initiative that promotes land stewardship ethics, educational experiences and sustainable outdoor recreation practices along the Niagara River corridor reserve, in concert with the mandate, mission and vision of The Niagara Parks Commission.
The group envisions an ecologically sensitive Park area kept for future generations by increasing environmental awareness and stewardship practices through community involvement. New members are always welcome to join. For more information, please visit www.niagaraparks.com/friends-of-the-glen.
About The Niagara Parks Commission
NPC is committed to a vision of Ontario’s Niagara Parks as one that Preserves a rich heritage, Conserves natural wonders, and Inspires people world-wide. Founded in 1885, The Niagara Parks Commission is an Operational Enterprise Agency of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport. Its mission is to protect the natural and cultural heritage along the Niagara River for the enjoyment of visitors while maintaining financial self-sufficiency.
(Niagara At Large invites you to share your views on this post below.)
–
Niagara At Large 