As we approach Earth Day (April 22nd), it is important to remember that this should be more than just one day that we take to focus on the state of our environment. There are many programs and activities that can help throughout the year. We are pleased to share information about one such program run by The Lake Huron Centre for Coastal Conservation. This is a non-profit charitable organization founded in 1998, with the goals of protecting and restoring Lake Huron’s coastal environment and promoting a healthy coastal ecosystem. It is a grassroots organization that develops and supports projects and initiatives lake-wide.
‘Watching’ Georgian Bay Shoreline Photo by C. Looker
One of their projects is the “Coast Watchers Community Volunteer Program”. If you walk along the beach once a month, once a week, or once a day, and see changes happening on your beach then you are already a Coast Watcher!
For the first time this summer, two “Friends of Nancy Island and Wasaga Beach Park” members will be walking sections of Wasaga Beach and reporting their weekly observations to the Coastal Centre. Information reported will include: wave height, wind speed, weather data, occurrences of birds or fish on the shore, observations of people and animals using the beach or shoreline.
This program helps to increase awareness of coastal changes on our beaches. It will help the Coastal Centre to organize coastal cleanups when needed, to monitor water quality, and to work with municipalities on beach management practices.
For more information please visit: www.lakehuron.ca
More Than Just a Beach... 