February 17, 2023

Junior scientist Denith Wickramarachchi examines a preserved Micropterus dolomieu specimen during a River Institute program held at RRCA's Cooper Marsh Conservation Area in South Glengarry.

This March break, the River Institute and the Raisin Region Conservation Authority (RRCA) are hosting a series of free family workshops at Cooper Marsh Conservation Area. From March 13 to 15, children and their parents or caregivers will be able to drop in at the Marsh’s Visitors Centre between the hours of 9 am and 12 pm to join in a variety of fun, hands-on educational activities suitable for all ages.

“Participants will get an introduction to fish sampling and identification using field equipment and a variety of preserved local specimens, learn practical lab skills such as how to use a microscope, pipette, and dichotomous key to identify aquatic macroinvertebrates, and engage their inner geologist by examining rock and mineral specimens and identifying them using hardness, acid tests, and other methods,” says Lexy Harquail, Environmental Educator and Biologist with the River Institute. “We’ll also venture out on guided snowshoe hikes around Cooper Marsh Conservation Area, find out about the ecological and hydrological importance of wetlands, and learn winter tree identification.”

RRCA’s Conservation Areas frequently host education programs offered through a partnership with the River Institute’s environmental education team.   

“This is a great opportunity for families to learn about our local environment and biodiversity while spending time together in nature,” says Lisa Van De Ligt, RRCA’s Communications and Stewardship Team Lead. “Pairing the River Institute’s award-winning education programs with RRCA Conservation Areas such as Cooper Marsh – one of the province’s most significant coastal wetlands – means that local residents and students have access to outstanding environmental education opportunities.”

The River Institute will also be joining the RRCA during a World Wetlands Day celebration at Cooper Marsh on Saturday February 25, 2023, from 10 am to 2 pm. The free public event is hosted by the RRCA and the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne’s Environment Program, and will feature guided snowshoe tours, educational displays and activities, traditional Mohawk food, and more. 

For more information visit rrca.on.ca or contact (613) 938-3611 or info@rrca.on.ca. Learn more about the River Institute’s education programs at education.riverinstitute.ca or by contacting (613) 936-6620 or info@riverinstitute.ca