It has been a busy spring filled with exciting events and initiatives! We are proud to work alongside many dedicated community partners. We would like to highlight some of the schools in Oakville that have taken on inspiring projects to increase biodiversity and promote environmental awareness. Student volunteers and leaders have actively participated in a variety of environmental initiatives, including pollinator garden stewardship, tree planting and maintenance, seedball making, educational talks, nature walks, and interactive games. We are incredibly grateful to the following schools for participating in environmental initiatives that create positive change, Abbey Park High School, Dr. D.R. Williams Public School, École du Chêne, Forest Trail Public School, St. Mildred’s, Appleby College, MacLachlan College, Garth Webb High School, Munn’s Public School, Oakwood Public School, Sheridan College, Sunningdale Public School, and Gladys Speers Public School . In addition to Oakville schools, we also had the pleasure of collaborating with the incredible youth volunteers from Human Nature Projects Ontario , who represented various schools across the GTA and brought enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to our initiative. Through their involvement in these environmental projects, all participants have contributed to positive change in our local green spaces and overall biodiversity. From engaging in educational talks to participating in garden stewardship, each effort has helped raise environmental awareness and enhance local biodiversity. This increase in biodiversity allows ecosystems to support a greater variety of insects, small mammals, and other wildlife, helping to maintain ecological balance. Promoting environmental awareness is essential for effectively engaging community members in the importance of protecting local biodiversity. Our Bring Monarchs Back (BMB) initiative has generated significant interest, empowering educators and students to learn more about the value of native biodiversity and the impact of their projects.

By Deborah Everest-Hill