July 21, 2023
Dr. Frederick W. Schuler and Aleta Karstad searching for mussels at Cooper Marsh Conservation Area in South Glengarry.
From bats and mussels to wild edibles and even plein air painting, the Raisin Region Conservation Authority (RRCA) is offering a round of free educational workshops at Cooper Marsh Conservation Area this summer.
“We’re delighted to have a great mix of activities to offer to the community this season thanks to several community partners,” says RRCA Communications Specialist, Vincent Pilon. “These workshops are perfect for nature enthusiasts, residents curious to learn more about Cooper Marsh and our local environment, or families looking to spend time in nature together while absorbing new knowledge.”
The series kicks off with Bats of Cooper Marsh, an evening workshop at 8:00 p.m. on August 10 led by local bat expert and River Institute scientist, Dr. Brian Hickey. On August 28 from 9:30 am to 12:00 pm, participants will shift their gaze down to the Marsh’s ponds and channels with the River Institute’s Kate Schwartz and dynamic naturalist duo Dr. Frederick W. Schuler and Aleta Karstad to search for and learn about the native Unionid mussel species, eastern Ontario’s largest invertebrate animals. Participants will also have the option to blend nature with art in company with Aleta Karstad as she paints in oils on-location at the Marsh.
The series’ finale during the afternoon of September 29 will have participants joining staff from the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne and the RRCA to learn about the various wildflowers, shrubs and trees at Cooper Marsh, including how to identify and deal with invasive species, how to harvest and prepare fruit from wild edibles, and various traditional plant uses by local Indigenous peoples. Participants will also get to leave their mark on Cooper Marsh for years to come by planting trees at select spots within the provincially significant wetland.
“While these fantastic workshops are offered free of charge, space is limited,” says Pilon. “We encourage everyone to sign up as soon as possible to secure their spots.” To register, or to learn more about the workshops, visit rrca.on.ca or contact (613) 938-3611 or info@rrca.on.ca.
Located a few minutes’ drive from South Lancaster, the 663-acre Cooper Marsh is part of the larger Charlottenburgh Marsh – one of the most significant wetlands in Ontario. The RRCA actively maintains, enhances, and restores this natural area, which welcomed close to 50,000 visitors last year.