News from Jane Hanlon, Greening Niagara and the Friends of the Greenbelt Foundation
Niagara, Ontario, April 2015 – Niagara residents are invited to join the first Jane’s Walk in St. Catharines on May 3rd at Richardson’s Creek in Martindale. The walk will be led by Greening Niagara, a local non-profit organization focused on environmental education and community action projects. Residents will learn about recreational opportunities in St. Catharines, along with issues relating to urban encroachment on natural areas.
Renowned urban author and activist, Jane Jacobs, inspired many in her writing and her impact is still felt today. Jane’s Walk is a movement of free, citizen-led hikes in communities throughout the world. The walks allow residents to tell stories about the communities they live in, connect with their neighbours, and learn more about their town.
“The Jane Jacob’s Martindale guided walk will look deeply into the competition for viable land with urban encroachment,” says Jane Hanlon, Executive Director of Greening Niagara. “This has been a challenge sighted in the Food and Farming: Action Plan 2021, and a growing concern to farmers.”
With support from the Friends of the Greenbelt Foundation, the Jane’s Walk will give residents a chance to explore and learn more about their city, and the transition between urban development and Greenbelt areas.
“In addition to our class 1 farmland, Niagara is home to some of Canada’s most diverse natural landscapes including wetlands, waterfalls, and wildlife habitat,” says Robin Garrett, Niagara’s Regional Director for Friends of the Greenbelt Foundation.
The Jane’s Walk is the first of three guided walks in May to highlight diverse areas within Niagara’s Greenbelt. The walk is free to attend, and locally made rhubarb squares will be served as a snack.
The walk will be held on May 3rd from 10 am to 11:30 am.
Those interested in participating in the Jane’s Walk, or any of the other guided walks, can visit Greening Niagara’s website or call (289) 434-0474 for details of where to meet.
About Greening Niagara:
Greening Niagara is the largest grassroots organization working to create a large and lasting impact on the region’s environment through educational programs and tools that help individuals to make lifestyle changes that reduce carbon emissions and contribute to healthier, economically stronger communities.
A non-profit organization, Greening Niagara collaborates with municipalities, businesses, school boards, faith-based organizations, volunteers, and other community-based non-profits and charities to assist observable change through local initiatives.
About the Friends of the Greenbelt Foundation:
Ontario’s Greenbelt is the solution for fresh air, clean water, healthy local food, recreational opportunities, and a thriving economy with good jobs. At nearly 2 million acres, it’s the world’s largest permanently protected greenbelt, keeping our farmlands, forests, and wetlands safe and sustainable. The Friends of the Greenbelt Foundation works to help keep farmers successful, strengthen local economies, and protect natural features. Join us in 2015 as we celebrate 10 years of success for the Greenbelt! Learn more at: greenbelt.ca or find us on Twitter and Facebook.
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