Gardening is a leisure past
time experienced by many throughout the watershed. From the sandy
beaches in Lambton Shores to the waterfront of the St. Clair River near
Chatham, this is a natural area that is enjoyed by all and should be
conserved for future generations. One way to maintain the natural beauty
of the area is to eliminate the spread of invasive species in the
watershed.
Invasive Species are a constant threat to the health and conservation of
the environment. These species spread aggressively through their
introduced environment choking out native plant and animal species and
causing a monoculture that limits biodiversity in the area. These
invasive plant species are commonly grown in local gardens without
knowledge of their aggressive tendencies.
The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority (SCRCA) has received funding
to work with nurseries, pet stores and gardeners to promote invasive
plant awareness and encourage the use of native plant species in our
watershed. The SCRCA is also working to monitor the occurrence and
spread of invasive species inland, within the tributaries, and along the
shores of Lake Huron and adjoining water bodies.
The SCRCA will monitor the occurrence and growth of invasive plant
species along three beaches in Lambton Shores as well as several
different inland drains and tributaries throughout the watershed. We
will also work to encourage the use of native plant species in gardens
by speaking with local nurseries and gardeners to learn more about their
views on native plants. We will also provide information through
brochures and handouts to help limit the spread of invasive plants in
gardens by offering alternatives.
On this page you will find several links to useful informational sites
including our
List of Native Plant Retailers in Southwestern Ontario, and our
List of Suggested Websites on native and invasive plant species in
our watershed. If you are an avid gardener or enjoy gardening in any way
please take our
Gardener’s Survey.
The natural environment is important for many reasons and with this
project we hope to maintain the health and wellbeing of our watershed
for future generations to enjoy.
|
|
|
|
