Planting with Partners in Stratford (UTRCA weekly, September 30, 2022)

The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) recently partnered with the City of Stratford’s Energy and Environment Committee to plant native grasses along the Avon River. The planting is at the corner of John Street and TJ Dolan Drive, at the end of the recently completed accessible pathway.

In June, 200 Big Bluestem and 200 Little Bluestem were planted with plans for 100 more plants to go in the ground this fall. The long range plan is to plant along the entire 300 metre length of the pathway.

In addition to serving as a biodiversity demonstration site, the grasses are pollinator-friendly, help filter runoff from the road, and improve aesthetics.

This project builds on previous work around Lake Victoria, including a 60 metre long shoreline stabilization project in 2021, south shore protection projects in 2018 and 2020, and cribwalls installed along the north shore in 2017 and 2019. The UTRCA works with many partners on these projects, including: the Avon River Environmental Association, City of Stratford, City of Stratford Energy and Environment Committee, The Green Hair Spa, and the Rotary Club of Stratford.