April 25, 2025
Participants at an educational workshop at the RRCA's Cooper Marsh Visitors Centre watch intently as the River Institute's Dr. Brian Hickey examines a live bat prior to release.
Raisin Region Conservation Authority (RRCA) staff are looking forward to welcoming residents, tourists, students, and nature enthusiasts at the Cooper Marsh Visitors Centre, which reopens for the season on May 2. The educational and interpretive centre is nestled within the popular RRCA Conservation Area in South Glengarry and will be open Wednesdays to Sundays, 9 am to 5 pm.
“All Cooper Marsh visitors are encouraged to drop in at the Centre to learn about local wildlife, observe specimens under a microscope, log their plant and animal observations, and enjoy various exhibits and activities,” says Lisa Van De Ligt, RRCA’s Communications and Stewardship Team Lead. “Our nature interpreter can also help upgrade your nature hike by providing you with field guides, binoculars, insect collection kits, pond dipping kits, and other items from our free lending library.”
From June to August, RRCA staff offer weekend guided walks through the Marsh. The conservation authority also looks forward to hosting educational programs and workshops for school groups in partnership with the River Institute, including the Eco Friends camp taking place in late July. Although camp registrations are now full, a waiting list can be accessed at rrca.on.ca/Events.
“Cooper Marsh has something to offer to everyone,” adds Van De Ligt. “Visitors can explore nature trails, observe and photograph wildlife, enjoy a picnic, take a self-guided tour, and even help monitor biodiversity through our citizen science initiatives.”
Located at 20020 County Road 2 in South Glengarry, on the picturesque north shore of the St. Lawrence River, Cooper Marsh Conservation Area is a home to a rich variety of plant and animal species. The 673-acre wetland is part of the larger Charlottenburgh Marsh – one of the most significant coastal wetlands in Ontario. The RRCA actively maintains, enhances, and restores this natural area, which also features viewing blinds and towers, and an 11-kilometre system of boardwalks and nature trails. The Marsh typically welcomes over 40,000 visitors each year.
The beach and campground at RRCA’s Charlottenburgh Park near Summerstown are also set to open on May 16. The marina at Gray’s Creek Conservation Area reopens on April 29. For more information, visit rrca.on.ca/Cooper Marsh or contact (613) 938-3611 or info@rrca.on.ca.