Maitland Conservation Foundation hosts appreciation luncheon
BRUSSELS—On June 19, the Maitland Conservation Foundation (MCF) hosted its annual donor appreciation luncheon at the Brussels Four Winds Barn.
Guests received updates on projects the MCF is raising funds for this year and a brief overview of the ongoing Forest Health Study, which concentrates on an aquatic health study in the conservation authority’s waterways.
The Maitland Conservation Foundation’s Inspired by Nature fundraising campaign aims to protect and improve water quality and quantity in the Maitland Valley.
Watershed Ecologist Erin Gouthro emphasized the importance of conservation and reforestation efforts, particularly on farms, and discussed the interconnectedness of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. They highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to inform conservation and management efforts, considering marine ecosystems’ unique characteristics and components.
Keynote speaker Kate Proctor, a professional farmer and environmental advocate, shared her insights on water quality and ecological integrity.
“I do not believe that we inherit the land from our ancestors. We borrow it from our children,” Proctor said. “And we are inspired by nature. The efforts of the Maitland Conservation Foundation are vital to bringing nature back within the watershed as provincial funding has dwindled over the years.”
Proctor added, “In between 2015 and 2020 our watersheds lost 500 acres of forested land, with the programs that we have in place, that would take 600 years to restore the natural areas needed across the watershed, including the flood plains river valleys and stream buffers.”
Proctor spoke about the importance of planting trees in natural spaces to improve water quality, reduce erosion, and provide habitat for wildlife.
“Having a variety of trees on our property increases biodiversity, and provides birds and wildlife with habitat and corridors to travel,” said Proctor. “The trees, as we know, store carbon and help reduce the effects of climate change. Trees in natural spaces are also very important for humans, providing recreational spaces and improving mental health.”
Healthy trees can help reduce wind and water erosion. Proctor said they have many windbreaks and grass waterways on their farm, which helps the sediment settle out.
“They also help with flood control and managing the water,” she said. “So as we all know, especially those of us who work with the land, the flooding events that we’re seeing now are seeming to be a lot more severe. So having more trees and more natural vegetation helps control that. The roots intercept nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.”
Proctor finished by recommending people look into the story of Edmund Zavitz, who “rescued Ontario from the ravages of increasingly more powerful floods, erosion, and deadly fires,” a biography in his book Two Billion Trees and Counting: The Legacy of Edmund Zavitz said. “Wastelands were taking over many hectares of once-flourishing farmlands and towns. Sites like the Oak Ridges Moraine were well on their way to becoming a dust bowl and all because of extensive deforestation.”
Proctor said, “So if you’re interested in reforestation, I think it’s important to look back on history and not take for granted our natural areas that we have now.”
For more information on MCF or to donate, visit https://mvca.on.ca/foundation/maitland-conservation-foundation/.
Cory Bilyea, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Wingham Advance Times
