Media Release                                                                                                                                                          October 9, 2009

 

MAKING  SHORELINES  NATURAL  AGAIN

 

            Natural healthy well-vegetated shorelines are one of the Rideau’s best defences in protecting water quality.   The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) has a new program that helps waterfront property owners establish or enhance natural shorelines.  The program provides site visits by experienced biologists, extra muscle for the actual replanting and know-how to plan and order any plants you need.  And, best of all, the program has grants of up to $1,000 for approved shoreline naturalization projects. 

 

            Here’s why it is important.  Natural shorelines (often called the Ribbon of Life) are critical to keeping our local streams, rivers and lakes clean and healthy.    They act like natural filters catching and holding all kinds of nutrients and contaminants running into the water from the upland area.   They are the water’s best protection against erosion and provide free valuable habitat for birds, fish and other wildlife.   If you enjoy swimming, fishing or spending time along healthy rivers, streams and lakes, natural shorelines are your best friends.

 

            The RVCA’s Shoreline Naturalization Program is going very well but we are always interested in helping with more projects.   The Program provides information about the value and benefits of naturally-vegetated healthy shorelines.   Simple cost-effective advice and hands-on guidance to waterfront landowners is also available.

 

            Who is eligible?

 

To find out more or to set up a site visit, please contact Andrea Klymko, Shoreline Stewardship Technician, at 613-692-3571 (-800-267-3504) ext 1173 or andrea.klymko@rvca.ca.    Your shorelines and your lake will thank you for it.

 

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More information:                  Andrea Klymko

                                                Shoreline Stewardship Technician

                                                613-692-3571 or 1-800-267-3504 ext 1173

                                                andrea.klymko@rvca.ca