Chance to participate in shoreline naturalization

Watersheds Canada | May 25, 2016

Watersheds Canada, formerly Centre for Sustainable Watersheds, is looking for landowners in the Cataraqui Watershed to take part in their renowned Natural Edge program.

In spring 2016, Watersheds Canada, in partnership with Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority, received funding from the Great Lakes Guardian Community Fund to naturalize waterfront properties in the Cataraqui watershed. The program provides an Ecological Toolkit to landowners where they receive a planting of native trees, shrubs, groundcovers, and grasses along the water’s edge, as well as, a planting of a native wildflower garden, two bird boxes and two bat boxes.

Chloe Lajoie, Watersheds Canada’s Natural Edge Coordinator, explains: “Native species have adapted to regional environmental conditions and are preferred by local wildlife for shelter and food. Planting along shorelines helps to enhance local ecosystems and stabilize shorelines from erosion, and it improves water quality by filtering runoff.”

The program provides a free site visit with landowners to discuss shoreline concerns, provide recommendations and assess planting conditions. A personalized planting plan is created, which includes photos of selected planting areas and ideal plant species. Plants are ordered, delivered, planted and mulched and owners are provided with information, which outlines how to ensure the new vegetation thrives, as well as follow-up and support. Participating landowners are asked to contribute only 25 per cent of the total costs for their site.

“All advice is optional,” Lajoie adds. “The goals and wishes of the landowner drive the plan, and we work with landowners to complete projects that are economically feasible on a case-by-case basis. Watersheds Canada coordinates the ordering, delivery and planting, along with tools, materials and labour to complete the project. Landowners can participate in the planting, but it is optional and voluntary.”

This year, Watersheds Canada is seeking participants anywhere within the Cataraqui watershed, whether they are on a lake or river or have a creek running through their property.

“Our goal is to raise awareness and to take steps on waterfront properties to help reduce negative effects on the environment,” said Barbara King, ED. “If you have property in a highly developed area or know you have shoreline erosion issues, this is a great way to make improvements that will help water quality and habitat.”

Any landowner within the Cataraqui watershed who is interested in a free site visit should contact Chloe Lajoie at Watersheds Canada, 613-264-1244 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..