UTRCA offering free, family-friendly Nature Nearby program (media release, November 12, 2021)
The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) invites families to get outside and take part in a free Nature Nearby program on Saturday, November 20th. UTRCA staff are offering this fun educational program in three locations on the same day – Mitchell, St. Marys, and Stratford.
This new program is the result of a partnership with the Mitchell, St. Marys, and Festival City (Stratford) Rotary Clubs. The theme for the outings will be “The Busy Little Squirrel,” with activities geared toward families with children 8 years of age and younger.
If you’re interested in getting your family outside to spend time in nature, follow these links:
- St. Marys – Saturday, November 20, 9:30 – 11 am, Sparling Bush
- Stratford – Saturday, November 20, 9:30 – 11 am, TJ Dolan Natural Area
- Mitchell – Saturday, November 20, 12:30 – 2 pm, West Perth Wetlands
There are many mental and physical health benefits that come from spending time in nature. According to Conservation Ontario, “Stepping into nature has been proven to provide health benefits such as: increased energy and immunity, increased weight loss and fitness, increased Vitamin D production, and reduced risk of diabetes, heart attacks, and cancer. A daily walk in nature can be as effective in treating mild cases of depression as taking an antidepressant.”