Perth South Tree Power returns!
Perth South Tree Power Returns! The Township of Perth South and the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) have once again partnered to make native trees available and affordable for residents. The Perth South Tree Power program launched in 2021 and has been extremely well-received each year, with trees selling quickly. Tree orders for this year will open online on Tuesday, August 19 at 9 am. The trees will [...]
Annual Pittock Staff BBQ and Awards
Annual Pittock Staff BBQ and Awards On a sunny afternoon at Pittock Conservation Area (PCA) on July 24th, our amazing team came together for the annual Staff Social BBQ—a well-deserved celebration of hard work, dedication, and team spirit. The event featured a classic summer menu of juicy hamburgers, sizzling hot dogs prepared by master chefs Steve and Elijah, and a sweet treat of ice cream topped with fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. It [...]
Debris Cleared and Sluice Gate Closed at RT Orr Dam in Stratford (media release, July 31, 2025)
For Immediate Release July 31, 2025 Debris Cleared and Sluice Gate Closed at RT Orr Dam in Stratford Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) staff have now safely cleared the debris that had prevented the sluice gate at Stratford’s RT Orr Dam from closing. With that sluice gate now closed, Lake Victoria will begin to refill. How quickly the reservoir fills, and normal recreational activities can resume, will depend [...]
Lake Victoria Drawdown in Stratford (media release, July 29, 2025)
For Immediate Release July 29, 2025 Lake Victoria Drawdown in Stratford During the storm on Thursday, July 24, a sluice gate at the RT Orr Dam in Stratford was operated automatically to release water and prevent flooding of upstream buildings and roads. While the gate was only open a short time, it was long enough to draw debris under the gate so that it could not be closed completely. [...]
Protecting drinking water in the summer: Source Water Tips for the Summer!
Protecting Drinking Water in the Summer: Source Water Tips for the Summer! As summer temperatures rise, so does our water usage — from watering gardens and lawns to splashing in backyard pools. While enjoying all that the season offers, it is important to remember that our actions can directly impact the safety and quality of our drinking water. The hot weather can increase the risk of contamination, especially near [...]
From Myth to Moth: The Fascinating Polyphemus
From Myth to Moth: The Fascinating Polyphemus Upon arriving at work in early July, many Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) employees were delighted to see a beautiful Polyphemus moth (Antheraea Polyphemus) by the entrance to the Watershed Conservation Centre. This moth belongs to a group called Saturniidae, known as giant silk moths. It is one of the largest moths in North America, with a wingspan of about 15 [...]
Oxford Clean Water Program
Oxford Clean Water Program The Oxford Clean Water Program provides financial assistance to landowners in Oxford County to implement water quality protection practices including erosion control structures, wetland creation, tree planting, decommissioning of unused wells, and more! Visit the Clean Water Program website for a full list of eligible projects. Oxford County provides funding for projects delivered through local Conservation Authorities. Some projects are eligible for stacking with other [...]
Green Stormwater Infrastructure Project at Maglin Site Furniture
Green Stormwater Infrastructure Project at Maglin Site Furniture The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) partnered with Maglin Site Furniture in Woodstock to use green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) features to alleviate stormwater issues on the east side of their building. GSI uses natural elements to manage stormwater (rainwater and urban runoff) close to its source. A rain garden measuring 58 metres long and 4 metres wide was installed to [...]
London Environmental Network (LEN) Sustainability Social
London Environmental Network Sustainability Social On July 3rd, the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) hosted the first event in a new series of London Environmental Network gatherings called Sustainability Socials. The series is designed to connect change makers, inspire collaboration, and advance local sustainability efforts. Each Sustainability Social spotlights a unique theme, offering space for idea exchange, resource sharing, and community building across sectors. The first event was [...]
Indigenous Solidarity and Awareness Network Event
Indigenous Solidarity and Awareness Network Event On June 18, the Indigenous Solidarity and Awareness Network - Oxford held its second of four Reconcili-ACTION events at Ingersoll Town Hall. Supported by Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) staff and funded through the Oxford Community Foundation’s Stevenson Fund, the series features Indigenous Elders and knowledge holders speaking about environmental health, ecological justice, and Indigenous Ways of Knowing. This second session, [...]