Avon River Fish Study
Avon River Fish Study On Monday, August 17, staff from the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) and members of the city of Stratford’s Energy and Environment Committee gathered along the Avon River just east of the St. Vincent Street dam to do a fish study. They conducted some electrofishing exercises to collect and record the fish species that were found in that section of the river. This is the first time UTRCA has been able to survey this section of the river. Water levels are normally too high for electrofishing, but the temporary lowering of the John Street [...]
Eastern Hog-nosed Snake (Heterodon platirhinos)
Eastern Hog-nosed Snake (Heterodon platirhinos) The Eastern Hog-nosed Snake is one of Ontario’s most unique snake species and certainly worthy of attention. From their unique snouts to their dramatic displays, these little critters are packed with interesting traits and behaviors. This species's most distinguishing feature is its upturned nose, which gives this species its name. Those snouts are more than just a cute feature - they are vital to the snake’s burrowing abilities. This harmless, heavy body snake can reach lengths of 50 to 115 centimetres. Its colour and patterns are highly variable, from plain brown or [...]
Thames River Regulated Area Map Update
Thames River Regulated Area Map Update The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) is updating regulated area maps along the Thames River using improved scientific data, technology, and mapping tools to more accurately identify natural hazards and regulated features. The updates include the following study areas: Delaware Study Area – from the western limits of the City of London to the UTRCA watershed boundary near Delaware. South Thames Study Area – from Pittock Dam in the City of Woodstock downstream to the City of London’s eastern limits Regulated area maps help keep people and property safe by identifying areas [...]
Stewardship Staff Site Visits Underway
Stewardship Staff Site Visits Underway With winter wheat harvest now complete, Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) stewardship staff have been busy conducting site visits and assessing potential erosion control projects across the watershed. The post-harvest period provides an excellent opportunity to identify and address issues related to water runoff, soil erosion, and field drainage. With fields more accessible and erosion-prone areas easier to observe, staff are busy working with landowners to develop solutions before the next growing season. Now is also an ideal time to coordinate erosion control planning with planned drainage improvement projects. When new field tile [...]
2026 Annual Pittock Staff BBQ and Awards
2026 Annual Pittock Staff BBQ and Awards On a sunny July 30th afternoon, our amazing staff team came together for the annual Staff Social BBQ at Pittock Conservation Area (PCA). It was a well-deserved celebration of hard work, dedication, and team spirit. Also on hand were Tracy Annett, Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) General Manager, along with other staff. Their support and kind words reinforced how valued the Pittock team is throughout the UTRCA. But this social wasn’t just about good food—it was also an opportunity to reflect on the important work being done at PCA. We held an [...]
Endangered Kidneyshell Mussels Return to Medway Creek
Endangered Kidneyshell Mussels Return to Medway Creek Hundreds of endangered Kidneyshell mussels have returned to Medway Creek, marking an exciting milestone in the effort to restore a species that was once lost from the Thames River watershed. DFO Research Scientist Todd Morris holds a Kidneyshell Mussel Freshwater mussels are often called the "livers of the rivers" because they naturally filter water, remove particles from the water column, and help maintain healthy aquatic ecosystems. Their presence benefits fish, aquatic insects, and countless other species that depend on clean water. The Kidneyshell release this July brought together partners from [...]
Capturing Conservation Through Photography
Capturing Conservation Through Photography As a student in the Honours Bachelor of Photography program at Sheridan College, I had the opportunity to complete my internship with the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA). Throughout my internship, I photographed a wide variety of subjects while learning about the important work happening behind the scenes. From Conservation Areas and recreational activities to wildlife and environmental units, every day brought a new experience. One of the biggest ways I grew during my internship was stepping outside of my comfort zone. I had little experience creating videos before this internship, but I gained confidence in filming and creating social [...]
Buckthorn Replaced with Native Trees and Shrubs in Ellice Swamp
Buckthorn Replaced with Native Trees and Shrubs in Ellice Swamp If you’ve ever had the opportunity to visit the vast expanses of forests, swamps, marshes, and remnant bog habitats of Ellice Swamp just north of Stratford, you’ll understand what a special place it is. At approximately 1,100 hectares, Ellice Swamp is the largest remaining natural area and wetland in the Upper Thames River watershed. It is recognized as a significant groundwater recharge zone and Environmentally Sensitive Area in Perth County, and much of it is designated as Provincially Significant Wetland by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. The swamp [...]
New Boardwalk installed at Shakespeare Conservation Area
New Boardwalk installed at Shakespeare Conservation Area Visitors to the Shakespeare Conservation Area will be able to use a new boardwalk, recently installed by Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) staff. Shakespeare Conservation Area (CA) is located 8 km east of Stratford and just north of the Village of Shakespeare. This small CA features a dam and pond, a pavilion and day use area, and a short woodland trail. The dam and pond are on a small tributary of the Avon River and the pond is popular with anglers. The dam is earthen with a drop inlet spillway [...]
The Upper Thames Phosphorus Reduction Program is Now Open and Accepting Applications
The Upper Thames Phosphorus Reduction Program is Now Open and Accepting Applications The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) is excited to announce that Year 3 of the Upper Thames Phosphorus Reduction Program is now underway, with funding available to help farmers and landowners implement practical projects that reduced phosphorus, improve soil health, protect local waterways, and strengthen farm operations. This year introduces new funding categories as well as higher cost-share opportunities for those implementing multiple Best Management Practices. Funding opportunities include: Manure Management (up to $50/acre) Cover Crops (up to $30/acre) Reduced Tillage/No-Till (up to $30/acre) Crop Fertility [...]