Written by Denise Deby.
Two events this weekend are a reminder of how we are a part of nature and how much we need to be a part of protecting the environment on which we depend.
On Saturday, Aug. 16, the Ottawa Riverkeeper hosts Ottawa’s first Interprovincial Swim between Parc des Cèdres, Aylmer/Gatineau and the Lac Deschenes Sailing Club in Ottawa.
Ottawa Riverkeeper, in partnership with Swim Ottawa, organized the 4 km, 2-hour swim to highlight the need for governments and agencies on both sides of the Ottawa River to collaborate in keeping the river healthy. (The Ottawa River falls under the jurisdiction of two provinces, four conservation authorities, several provincial and federal agencies and over a hundred municipalities over its 1,271 km length.)
The swim supports Riverkeeper initiatives, particularly the purchase of water quality test kits for its Riverwatch Program. Donations are accepted at giveeffect.org or at 613-321-1120.
On Sunday, Aug. 17, CPAWS-Ottawa Valley and MEC Ottawa are holding the MEC Big Wild Challenge. It’s a run/walk along several trail loop options in Gatineau Park. Organizers promise an active day with “plenty of fun streams to cross, rocks to climb, natural obstacles to maneuver around, and amazing views over the Outaouais region” as well as entertainment, snacks and prizes. Funds raised go towards CPAWS’ campaigns across Canada to protect at-risk wilderness.
For more information and registration go to http://action.cpaws.org/site/TR/Events/BigWildChallenge?sid=1002&type=fr_informational&pg=informational&fr_id=1070, or contact Amy at CPAWS. The run starts at Gatineau Park parking lot P7B at 9:00 a.m., with pre-run sign-up at 8:30 a.m., and costs $20.
Green Living Ottawa 