Written by Denise Deby.
One of the wonderful things about living in Ottawa or Gatineau is that it’s not hard to reconnect with nature. There are hidden, and not-so-hidden, green spaces all around us.
The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society-Ottawa Valley chapter (CPAWS-OV) is helping people get to know some of these areas better.
If you didn’t know (I didn’t!), Ottawa is home to the Lac Deschênes Important Bird Area. On Thursday, April 25, 2013, Alexander MacDonald of Nature Canada will speak about this area at CPAWS-OV’s Nature Night, 7 p.m. at the Mountain Equipment Co-op Community Room. Lac Deschênes is actually a lake within the Ottawa River right in the city, and it’s an important stop for migrating birds. (Here’s a link to the Lac Deschênes Important Bird Area website if you’d like to find out more.)
On Sunday, April 28, 2013, you can test your new knowledge or just enjoy a walk outdoors at CPAWS-OV’s monthly “Get Outside” Hike which will explore Mud Lake and the Lac Deschênes bird area. It starts at 10 a.m. (See website for details.)
Both events are free with donations appreciated ($5 suggested for the hike).
CPAWS-OV runs regular Nature Nights and Nature Hikes, usually every month. Groups can also contact them to arrange guided hikes.
I also see that CPAWS-OV is having its Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, May 2, 7:00 p.m. at Ottawa City Hall. At 7:45 p.m., special guest Clive Doucet will talk about the Capital to Capitol voyageur canoe trip that travelled 1800 km from Ottawa to Washington, D.C. last year to raise awareness about the need to protect waterways. Should be inspiring.
Green Living Ottawa 