Welcome to the Watersheds Canada Resource Library!
Here you will find a comprehensive collection of free educational resources dedicated to helping rural shoreline property owners, families, municipalities, lake groups, and educators protect their lakes and restore natural habitat. Explore guides, best practices, case studies, lesson plans, and tools to become a freshwater protector. All resources are freely shareable so please include them in a newsletter, on social media, or printed for a community booth!
Funding support thanks to Peterborough K.M. Hunter Charitable Foundation, and S.M. Blair Family Foundation.
Water Soldier Eradication Efforts in Ontario webinar with Robert McGowan
This is a handout from our webinar, "Water soldier (Stratiotes aloides) Eradication Efforts in Ontario". The document discusses the eradication efforts of the invasive aquatic plant Water Soldier in Ontario. It explains how to help prevent its spread, including using the 'Clean Drain Dry' method, disposing of it on land, and reporting sightings. The document also provides information on the Water Soldier Working Group's monitoring projects and grant opportunities. Additionally, it includes identification and biology information about Water Soldier, as well as a management plan to prevent its introduction and spread in Ontario.
Water quality handout – Water Rangers and Watersheds Canada
The document is about testing the water quality in the Tay River using Water Ranger's tiny test kits. The kits have real scientific tools inside, and by using them, students become community scientists. The test kits include a thermometer, test strip container, and other tools to check the water's temperature, pH, and other factors. The workshop was made possible by various supporters and partners.
Water – Change is Upon Us
This personal reflection from past executive director Barbara King discusses what is responsible for the inaction seen sometimes in the current environmental landscape. Read it to hear of her personal reflections and experiences with the power of change, and what she feels is missing.
Water, Water Everywhere!
After the drought in 2016, which saw hot summer days and very little precipitation, the change in the following year was resounding. 2017 brought intense precipitation and a variety of changes for our freshwater, from increases in our mosquito and black fly populations to explosions in the growth of native species. This personal reflection from Melissa Dakers tells of this time, and ties in the changes she saw to what the implications were for waterfront property owners.
Waterfowl on the Shore
The wellbeing of waterbirds is naturally intertwined with the health of shoreline and riparian ecosystems. Familiarize yourself with some common species and learn about the positive impact of naturalized shorelines on their populations in this blog post from a past intern of Watersheds Canada.
Watershed Explorers webinar by Kailey Setter
This is a handout from our webinar, "Watershed Explorer: Family-friendly activities to help you explore your watershed". This document provides resources from the Canadian Wildlife Federation, including lesson plans, educational materials, and conservation projects for kids. It also connects families with the outdoors through the WILD Family Nature Club. The document explains what a watershed is and provides handouts for activities such as hosting a BioBlitz and packing a Nature Discovery Backpack. Additionally, it offers resources for citizen science programs and a Watershed Explorer for family-friendly activities.
Watersheds Canada 1-pager Handout
Watersheds Canada understands the importance of preserving shorelines and water quality. They provide practical ways to restore deteriorating shoreline conditions and improve water quality. The organization offers various programs, including the Natural Edge Program, Fish Habitats Program, and Love Your Lake. These programs aim to protect, enhance, and restore freshwater fish habitats and promote sustainable waterfront development.
Watersheds Canada lesson 1 – Shoreland Health Q&A Teller Activity
The importance of site-preparation for pollinator gardens cannot be overstated. To prepare a site, eliminate existing undesirable vegetation, eradicate weeds, remove plant debris, and ensure a clean surface for seed to soil contact or transplants. Tilling should be avoided as it kills ground nesting insects and damages soil structure. Two effective site preparation methods are smothering and solarizing, which are chemical-free and can be up to 90% effective at eradicating weeds.
Watersheds Canada lesson 2 – Let's Shine a Light on Light Pollution lesson plan
The impacts of artificial light on wildlife behavior, human health, and the environment are explored through field observations, research, and educational activities. The effects of light pollution on freshwater resources, migratory birds, aquatic ecosystems, and human health are analyzed and discussed. Strategies for reducing light pollution, enhancing dark-sky-friendly outdoor lighting, and protecting freshwater habitats and water quality are presented. By raising awareness and promoting responsible practices, individuals can make a positive impact on the environment and their communities.