May 25, 2026

RRCA staff are offering free guided walks every weekend from June to August.

Visitors looking to enhance their outdoor adventures at Cooper Marsh Conservation Area can once again take advantage of the free lending library available inside the Marsh’s Visitors Centre, along with guided weekend walks offered by the Raisin Region Conservation Authority (RRCA) throughout the summer season.

“Nature enthusiasts of all ages can use our lending library to borrow a variety of tools and resources at no charge,” says Claudia Munafo, Public Information Coordinator with the RRCA. “Items include binoculars, field guides, pond dipping kits, insect collection kits, and more. Simply drop by the Visitors Centre – open Wednesday through Sunday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm – to check out the lending library.”

The RRCA is also offering guided walks every Saturday and Sunday from June to August. Visitors can meet outside the Visitors Centre at 10:00 am for a 40-minute guided tour of the Marsh. The walks provide an opportunity to learn more about the Marsh’s history and ecological importance, including the critical habitat it provides for birds, fish, amphibians, insects, and plants.

“The guided walks and lending library give visitors additional ways to connect with nature and participate in citizen science initiatives,” adds Munafo. “Visitors can also use their mobile phone to photograph and share wildlife observations with the RRCA and researchers helping monitor biodiversity within the Marsh through a public database accessible at rrca.on.ca/CitizenScience.”

Located along the scenic north shore of the St. Lawrence River just west of South Lancaster, Cooper Marsh Conservation Area spans 673 acres and forms part of the larger Charlottenburgh Marsh – one of Ontario’s most significant coastal wetlands. The RRCA continues to actively protect, restore, and enhance the area, which features viewing blinds, observation platforms, boardwalks, a picnic area, and nature trails enjoyed by approximately 40,000 visitors annually.

The Cooper Marsh Visitors Centre offers an educational and interactive space with taxidermy displays, a microscope station, interpretive exhibits, and more. The Centre also hosts student programming in partnership with the River Institute, including the popular Eco Friends Camp held each summer. For more information, visit rrca.on.ca/CooperMarsh or contact (613) 938-3611 or info@rrca.on.ca.