Upcoming events.
Credit River Water Ceremony
Credit River Water Ceremony
All are welcome to participate in a monthly traditional Anishinaabe ceremony on the edge of the Credit River to honour the Spirit of Nibi (water). The ceremony will begin with a smudge; we will pray for the water, sing to the water, and feed the water.
Please visit the Credit River Waterwalk website for more information including protocol and directions.
Hungry Hollow Invasive Species Pull
Get Involved
Join the Credit Valley Conservation to help make the Hungry Hollow SNAP neighbourhood more sustainable and ready for a changing climate. This event is part of the Hungry Hollow Sustainable Neighbourhood Action Plan (SNAP).
Help control the spread of invasive species in the Hungry Hollow Ravine. Participants will remove invasive species that are impacting the survival of native plants and animals. These actions help restore habitat for our native wildlife to survive and allow a more diverse ecosystem to thrive.
Local Top Trees Tour
Learn About the Trees in Your Neighbourhood
Join the Credit Valley Conservation for a free walking tour of the Tree Arboretum in Georgetown and browse the trees CVC will be planting this year as part of our neighbourhood tree giveaway.
Tree planting expert Sara Maedel will lead a walk through the tree gallery and introduce you to some of our favourite native trees. Design expert, Melanie Kramer, will help you uncover which trees will grow well in your yard.
Learn more about The Arboretum by Trees for Halton Hills at 65000trees.ca.
Halton Hills Community Tree Planting
Get Involved
Join Credit Valley Conservation to plant native trees and shrubs in Tanners Woodlot. Trees help fight climate change by storing carbon dioxide and providing natural cooling on hot summer days. They also create habitat for local wildlife and add beauty to your community.
Glen Williams Community Association Tree Planting
Fight Climate Change and Add Beauty to Your Community
Join Credit Valley Conservation to we plant native trees and shrubs in Glen Williams Park. Trees help fight climate change by storing carbon dioxide and providing natural cooling on hot summer days. They also create habitat for local wildlife and add beauty to your community.
Blueback
Presented by Halton Hills EcoFilm Fest
Blueback
Mia Wasikowska, Radha Mitchell, and Eric Bana star in a story about an intimate mother–daughter relationship, forged by the women’s keen desire to protect the inhabitants of the pristine blue oceans on the Australian coast where they live.
With images of beautiful blue vistas demanding to be seen on the big screen, Robert Connolly (Balibo, TIFF ’09; Paper Planes, TIFF ’14) returns to the Festival with a story about a young woman’s connection to the ocean and an inherited mission of environmental advocacy.
While marine biologist Abby (Mia Wasikowska) is out on a boat examining the slow destruction of coral reefs, she’s called back home with the news that her mother has had a debilitating stroke, which has left her unable to speak. Abby begins reflecting on her childhood and the immense influence her mother, Dora (Radha Mitchell), had on her worldview. Through flashbacks, we meet the teenage Abby, played by newcomer Ilsa Fogg, who captures confidence and curiosity, taking a deep interest in protecting the bay where they live. In between amusing encounters with a local fisherman (Eric Bana), she maintains a bond with a groper fish affectionately named Blueback, who becomes a reminder of all the wonders the ocean has to offer and a path to healing a rift between Abby and her mother.
With this latest film, Connolly continues his pursuit of key human concerns by training his lens on issues of the environment. Blueback is acutely focused on the preservation of oceans and habitats that have become victim to encroaching land developers. Dora never lies to Abby about how difficult this battle is, but their story finds the mother–daughter team in a personal fight that acknowledges just how much power every one of us actually has.
Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students
Watch the trailer.
Night Matters Webinar
Webinar: Night Matters - Celebrating World Migratory Bird Day
Learn about the impact of light pollution on migratory birds with Kyle G. Horton, Ph.D., Assistant Professor at Colorado State University. Register to engage in the conversation.
World Migratory Bird Day
Save insects, save birds.
Join us at Shelagh Law Parkette in Glen Williams to celebrate the awe-inspiring phenomenon of bird migration and the critical role insects play in the survival of these remarkable travelers.
Explore the fascinating relationships between native plants, insects, and birds through guided bug crawls with Credit Valley Conservation Technician Natalie Rudkins.
Learn how to use apps like iNaturalist and Seek to help identify plants, insects and birds, and contribute to community science projects.
Connect with the Glen Williams Community Association and Bird Friendly Halton Hills to learn about plantings in the parkette and how you can make your yard more bird friendly.
Pick up your pre-ordered native shrubs and window marking kits.
This is a drop in event. We hope to see you there!
Big thanks to the Glen Williams Community Association for co-hosting this event with us.
Credit River Water Ceremony
Credit River Water Ceremony
All are welcome to participate in a monthly traditional Anishinaabe ceremony on the edge of the Credit River to honour the Spirit of Nibi (water). The ceremony will begin with a smudge; we will pray for the water, sing to the water, and feed the water.
Please visit the Credit River Waterwalk website for more information including protocol and directions.
Bees, Butterflies and Beneficial Insects
Get All Abuzz about Beneficial Insects
Get beneficial insects, or what we affectionally refer to as bennies, working for you to control pests and pollinate your vegetables and flowers.
Join the Credit Valley Conservation for a free workshop to learn about the benefits of bennies and how to attract them to your rural property. Discover funding programs to help you get started.
This workshop is intended for rural landowners in the Credit River Watershed. Search for your address on our Watershed Look-up Map tool to determine if your property is in the watershed.
Annual Bike Swap
Halton Hills Bike It - Annual Bike Swap
This is a great recycling initiative that gets used bikes and trikes into the hands of those who need them while also raising cash for our local food banks. Donated bikes, trikes and cycling equipment will be accepted by volunteers April 24, 25, and 26, 5 - 7 p.m. at the Robert C. Austin Operations Centre parking lot. Donations also accepted the morning of the sale (April 27, 8 - 11 a.m.).
Prices
Kids bikes: $10 and up
Youth bikes: $20 and up
Premium youth bikes and adult bikes priced individually
All bikes sold as is. Proceeds from all sales will be donated to local food banks.
Bird Friendly Symposium
Halton Hills Bird Friendly Symposium
Fly into action this Earth Week with Bird Friendly Halton Hills. Connect with local bird lovers, learn about our Nature Canada certification, and help make our community more bird friendly.
Common Ground
Presented by Halton Hills EcoFilm Fest
Common Ground - saving the planet one acre at a time.
From the filmmakers of ‘Kiss the Ground’ (Netflix) comes the follow-up documentary ‘Common Ground’, winner of the Tribeca Film Festival. Common Ground is an important new documentary film featuring Laura Dern, Jason Momoa, Woody Harrelson, Ian Somerhalder, Donald Glover, Rosario Dawson, Mark Hyman, Gabe Brown, and many others. Directed by Josh and Rebecca Tickell, Common Ground provides hope for future generations with concrete ways to fix a broken planetary system. The film explores how regenerative agriculture can help heal the soil, our health and the planet.
Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students
Watch the trailer.
Tackling the Problem of Agricultural Pesticide Use to Protect Bugs and Birds
World Migratory Bird Day 2024 Lecture: Tackling the Problem of Agricultural Pesticide Use to Protect Bugs and Birds
Presented by Nature Canada.
You are invited to join Nature Canada and Dr. Christy Morrisey to discuss the impact of pesticide use on birds and insects across agricultural landscapes. This year’s 2024 World Migratory Bird Day Conservation Theme aims to bring awareness to the negative consequences of widespread pesticide use on bird and insect populations. Protecting insects will help protect birds by increasing the available food sources they have access to along their amazing migratory journeys. This Zoom webinar is free and everyone is welcome! We can’t wait to see you there!
About our Guest Speaker:
Dr. Christy Morrissey, PhD, is a Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Saskatchewan. Her research focuses on the effects of environmental contamination on birds, insects, rivers and wetlands. Christy has over 23 years of experience working on issues related to agricultural pesticides and other chemicals and the use of birds as indicators of environmental health. She is working on the Living Lab and related projects to implement nature-based solutions to improve sustainable agricultural production in the Prairies. Dr. Morrissey has published over 90 highly cited journal articles and book chapters and in 2020 was named to the Royal Society College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists. Her work has also been featured broadly in the national and international media and documentaries (CBC, National Geographic, Nature of Things, The Messenger etc).
22 Minute Makeover
Town of Halton Hills 22-Minute Makeover
On Monday, April 22, schools and businesses are encouraged to head outside to clean up where you spend your day. Register by emailing Clean up the Town, to arrange for free bags and gloves. Thank you Superior Glove Works located in Acton for donating the clean-up gloves!
Willow Park Earth Day Celebration
Willow Park Earth Day Celebration
Presented by Willow Park Ecology Centre.
You're invited to join the community in celebrating Earth Day by appreciating nature and the environment at Willow Park Ecology Centre.
Spend Earth Day giving back to the planet through activities such as gardening and trails renewal, park clean-up and habitat care plus a nature-themed scavenger hunt! Refreshments and gardening gloves provided (or bring yours). You’ll leave feeling connected and grounded!
Suitable for student volunteer hours. Everyone is welcome to join this free event by registering through their website.
CVC Tree Planting
Tree Planting Event
On Sunday, April 21, 9:30 a.m. to noon, join Credit Valley Conservation for a community tree planting event in Hungry Hollow, access through Craig Crescent entrance. For more information and to register, visit Credit Valley Conservation's events page.
Community Clean Up
The Town of Halton Hills Community Cleanup
On Saturday April 20, help clean-up the community! Organizations, groups, families, and individuals are invited to form a cleanup group or join a group to pick up trash along trails, parks, ravine and anywhere else that needs cleaning.
The Town of Halton Hills will pick up the trash bags when you are finished! Participants are asked to register so that we do not duplicate or clean-up efforts.
Register by emailing Clean up the Town, to arrange pick-up of free bags and gloves, and let us know if you would like to lead a cleanup crew!
Bird Friendly Spring Sale
🌿🐦 Bird Friendly Halton Hills Spring Sale is Here!
Native Shrubs & Grasses: Enhance your garden with plants like Smooth Serviceberry, White Cedar, Spicebush, and more, which provide crucial shelter and food for local and migratory birds. Our selection is offered at significantly reduced prices to encourage community participation.
Feather Friendly Window Marking Kits: Prevent bird collisions with window marking kits. Annually, millions of birds die from window strikes; you can make your windows safe and save lives.
Pre-order by May 2nd for Pick Up May 11th: Orders can be picked up on World Migratory Bird Day, Saturday Morning, May 11th, at Shelagh Law Parkette, Glen Williams.
THIRST for justice
Presented by Halton Hills EcoFilm Fest
Thirst for Justice
Focuses on three battles for clean water—on the Navajo Reservation, in Flint MI, and at Standing Rock—united in the belief that Water Is Life. Armed only with facts and their illnesses, extraordinary citizens take on industry and government, risking arrest to protect clean water.
THIRST FOR JUSTICE follows Janene Yazzie as she searches for the source of contamination in her son's school's water in Sanders, Arizona. She suspects drinking uranium-contaminated water from the 1979 Church Rock dam spill caused her ovarian cancer. Armed with a geiger counter she begins investigating radioactive waste on the Navajo Nation and finds areas hotter than evacuation zones in Chernobyl
When the epic movement for water justice ignites in Standing Rock, Janene is compelled to join. There she meets Flint water activist Nayyirah Shariff and their struggles converge. Janene travels to Flint, where she sees first hand the similarities between what's happening in this inner-city and the Navajo experience. The sacredness of water flows through the film, with the water ceremonies and teachings from water carriers, like Mary Lyons and other Water Protectors.
Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students
Watch the trailer.
Spring Equinox Gathering
Equinox Gathering
Presented by Willow Park Ecology Centre
Equinox reflection and meditation fireside event! Celebrate life’s sustaining earth, connecting to each other gathered around a warming fire. FREE event, accepting donations.
Bird Friendly Communities - Conservation in Local Practice
Halton Hills Lecture Series: Bird Friendly Communities - Conservation in Local Practice
Presented by the Halton Hills Public Library. Learn more about the lecture series and upcoming lectures.
Join Brendon Samuels, a PhD candidate in the Department of Biology at Western University, for a conversation about the various initiatives for the betterment of healthy bird populations that are ongoing in municipalities participating in Nature Canada's Bird Friendly Cities program.
Municipalities are on the frontlines of conserving birds and biodiversity in Canada. Many of the problems facing wild bird populations already have solutions – practices that can be mobilized at a local level through grassroots organizing, knowledge translation, environmental stewardship, and policy change.
Join us to learn about the various initiatives for the betterment of healthy bird populations that are ongoing in municipalities participating in the Bird Friendly Cities program by Nature Canada.
Brendon Samuels, the local Bird Team coordinator for London, Ontario will share his experiences and provide suggestions of practical ideas that can help people to understand and coexist with birds, reduce key threats, and link bird conservation with climate action.
Brendon Samuels is a PhD candidate in the Department of Biology at Western University in London, Ontario, where he works at the Advanced Facility for Avian Research on research into strategies for preventing bird-window collisions. He also acts as the coordinator of the London Bird Team under the Bird Friendly Cities Program by Nature Canada and is the research coordinator for the Fatal Light Awareness Program (FLAP) Canada. When not at work, Brendon can usually be found tending to his naturalized garden and pet parrots.
It’s Maple Time! Family Event.
It’s Maple Time! Family Event
Presented by Willow Park Ecology Centre
Together with your family join in activities to experience and learn about the tradition of Maple Syrup making in Canada. Visit the stations to engage with our volunteer and staff leaders in steps of the process including tapping trees, cooking down sap and games to understand how we get thick syrup from runny water! See you for a fun afternoon in the park with us! $5/person, children under 4 free. Have a great March Break!
Credit River Water Ceremony
Credit River Water Ceremony
All are welcome to participate in a monthly traditional Anishinaabe ceremony on the edge of the Credit River to honour the Spirit of Nibi (water). The ceremony will begin with a smudge; we will pray for the water, sing to the water, and feed the water.
Please visit the Credit River Waterwalk website for more information including protocol and directions.
Forest Meditation
Forest Meditation
Presented by Chantal Garneau of BecomingPresent.earth
Saunter through the Bruce Trail in Glen Williams and learn some nature inspired meditation practices to facilitate a connection to yourself and the natural world.
Forest Meditation is a unique experience that blends forest bathing, mindfulness, and a philosophy of interconnectedness. Prepare to feel relaxed and energized at the same time.
All are welcome, no experience necessary.
Fairy Lake Water Quality Study Public Open House
The Town of Halton Hills is seeking public feedback on the Fairy Lake Water Quality Study Update. You can comment via an online survey and/or the public open house.
To learn more about Fairy Lake, the study and how to get involved visit the Fairy Lake Let’s Talk Page.
Public Open House
A public open house is scheduled for Tuesday February 20, 2024 from 6 - 8:30 p.m. at the Acton Legion (15 Wright Ave).
During the event, the consultant, along with Town and agency representatives, will be present to address any questions.
Local community organizations will also be invited to share information on other initiatives and projects.
Public Survey now to March 1st
The Town designed a survey for residents to provide feedback on the Water Quality Study Update. It offers opportunities to comment on management options and recommendations, along with providing input on recreational priorities. In order to prioritize management recommendations and identify those for implementation, it is important to understand the community's priorities. Please click here for more information.
Family Day Scavenger Hunt
Family Day Weekend Scavenger Hunt FREE, Self-guided
Presented by Willow Park Ecology Centre
Enjoy winter fun with all your senses!
Immerse your family in the healing power of nature along Silver Creek by visiting us in Norval for a FREE self-guided activity anytime between Sat. - Mon. dawn to dusk.
Get your family Scavenger Hunt Game Card from the Display Box on the Kiosk, off the footbridge. Participate: bring a pencil and explore the park circling your findings on the game card, keep the card for another day!
Take photos to share on social media!
Donations to support resources for children’s programs and community events are welcome and can be shared through the donation button on their website.
A Mom declared: "we're a happier family when we spend time together outdoors!" Happy Family Day Weekend!
Willow Park Ecology Centre can be accessed from their parking lot on Mary Street in Norval. For gps type in Mary St. Norval.
Great Backyard Bird Count
Great Backyard Bird Count
Looking for something to do outdoors over the Family Day Weekend? Consider participating in the Great Backyard Bird Count from February 16-19!
Launched in 1998, this community science project encourages people from around the world to come together to watch, count and report as many birds as they can find to help bird scientists better understand global bird populations. Learn more about it here.
New to watching and counting birds? No Problem! From February 1—19, stop by the Acton Branch (17 River Street) or Georgetown Branch (9 Church Street) of the Halton Hills Public Library to pick up a Great Backyard Bird Count Kit to help you get started.
Each kit includes:
• How To Participate
• Bird Count Tally Sheet
• Halton Hills Winter Bird ID Guide
• Library Resource List
• Local Birdwatching Locations
Credit River Waterwalk Feast and Fundraiser
Join us for an afternoon of solidarity with the Credit River Waterwalkers, an Anishinaabe led group that walks to honour and pray for Nibi (water) so there will be healthy rivers, lakes, and oceans for future generations and our ancestors.
Your Afternoon Includes:
✍️ Silent Auction: Engage in a silent auction featuring a curated selection of handcrafted and donated items in honour of our waters. (a great opportunity to source unique holiday gifts)
💧Water Teachings: Mary Anne Caibaiosai, lead waterwalker, will share Anishinaabe water teachings highlighting the cultural and spiritual significance of water.
🎶 Songs and Stories: Bring your drums and shakers (if you have them), sing along and feel the beat as we celebrate the spirit of Nibi (water) together, and listen to stories from the 2023 waterwalk.
🍲 Harvest Meal: Enjoy a communal harvest meal, a feast that celebrates the local produce and the culinary delights of our region.
🍵 Local Teas and Ciders: Enjoy the comforting flavours of locally brewed ciders provided by Heartwood Farm and Cidery.
Ticket Information:
We believe in inclusivity and the power of community support. Therefore, we offer 'pay what feels good' tickets to ensure that anyone who wishes to has the opportunity to participate. Your generosity is greatly appreciated and will directly fund the efforts of the 2024 Credit River Waterwalk.
Reserve Your Spot:
Seats are limited, and the river's call is clear. Secure your ticket today and be part of a movement that honours our waters and weaves a tapestry of hope for the future.
🌟 Join us in sowing seeds of change and celebrating the spirit of the Credit River. Together, we walk for the water.
Silent Auction Sneak Peek:
Forest Meditation Community Event
Forest meditation
Saunter through the Bruce Trail in Glen Williams and learn some nature inspired meditation practices to facilitate a connection to yourself and the natural world.
Forest Meditation is a unique experience facilitated by Chantal Garneau that blends forest bathing, mindfulness, and a philosophy of interconnectedness. Prepare to feel relaxed and energized at the same time.
All are welcome, no experience necessary.