'Wild Routes' documentary to be launched at conservancy's AGM

NEWS RELEASE
COUCHICHING CONSERVANCY
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The Couchiching Conservancy is pleased to invite the public to its annual general meeting.

The AGM is the conservancy’s most significant annual event, offering a chance to review achievements, elect board members, and engage in meaningful conversations about conservation efforts. With over 250 attendees each year, the event brings together members, volunteers, donors, and supporters to celebrate successes and discuss the future of land protection in the region.

• Date: Saturday, March 29, 2025
• Time: 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.- doors open at 1 p.m.
• Location: Hawk Ridge Golf Club (1151 Hurlwood Lane, Severn)

FEATURED SHORT DOCUMENTARY – “Wild Routes”

This year’s event will feature an exclusive screening, a short documentary by staff biologist Toby Rowland. The film follows Toby’s immersive three-day trek by foot and kayak through the Minesing to Matchedash region, offering a first-hand look at how wildlife navigate their environment.

“Ever since I first heard about the conservation corridors envisioned by Ron Reid, I’ve wondered what it would take for an animal to actually traverse those distances," says Rowland.

"These corridors outline the most important areas of connectivity, linking nature reserves, provincial parks, Simcoe County Forests, and private lands that provide essential habitat. Walking and paddling these routes allowed me to see firsthand the barriers wildlife encounter, from fences to highways, noise, and light pollution,” says Rowland.

The documentary provides insights into how wildlife move across landscapes, the obstacles they face, and what conservation efforts can do to protect these critical corridors.

The AGM is also an opportunity for supporters to renew memberships, join as new members, and take part in the voting process. Membership ensures continued support for vital conservation work across the region.

Pre-reading materials, including the AGM agenda, slate of board candidates, audited financial statement, annual report, and minutes from the last AGM, are available online and printed copies will be available at the meeting.

This event is free and open to the public. For more details, please visit https://couchichingconserv.ca/.

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