
For families and 10- to 13-year-olds
Junior Ecology Leaders Program
There are many special natural lands and protected areas right in and around our community. This program introduces newcomers to the local natural world, its plants and animals and habitats. Children study local ecology, learn about environmental issues in Hamilton and area, and participate in work to help the environment. Nature walks and activities, environmental games and crafts all help participants to understand and value the importance of Canada's natural environment.
Royal Botanical Gardens and other community partners are offering a four-day nature awareness and leadership program for new Canadian children between ages 10 and 13.
When and Where: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; busing is provided each day; details are provided upon registration
Session 1 - Tuesday to Thursday, August 4 to 6; RBG Centre; Friday, August 7; Parks Canada Discovery Centre
Session 2 - Monday to Wednesday, August 17 to 19; RBG Centre; Thursday, August 20; Parks Canada Discovery Centre
Who: New Canadian 10- to 13-year-olds who can communicate orally in English and are interested in learning about the outdoor world.
DETAILS AND AN APPLICATION FORM
Flyer (download)
Application form (download)
or at SISO from Lindon Barrett, 905-527-2049, ext. 529 lbarrett@sisohamilton.org or a SWISH team member.
To apply, please fill out the application and drop it off or fax it to the the Globe office: The Globe, 24 Main Street West, Hamilton. Fax 905-527-7342. Attention: Lindon Barrett
Newcomer Explorers of Nature
These free afternoon programs are for newcomers of all ages. Come with your family and learn more about the special nature of our area. Spend quality time with your children and visit the nature sanctuaries of Royal Botanical Gardens, learn about the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve that runs through our city, hike on the Bruce Trail and even try a truly Canadian activity paddle a canoe!
Saturday, August 24, 1 to 5 p.m.;
Canoeing in Cootes Paradise Marsh
Enjoy paddling a canoe in our wetland, and find out about our work to restore this special nature area.
REGISTER BY AUGUST 21.
Saturday, October 17, 1 to 5 p.m.;
Cootes Paradise Nature Sanctuary
Enjoy an autumn afternoon outdoors and see fall colours and migrating birds as you hike along our trails. Learn how local lands are being protected in the Niagara Escarpment Biosphere Reserve and Ontario Greenbelt.
REGISTER BY OCTOBER 13.
Saturday, December 19, 1 to 5 p.m.;
RBG Nature Interpretive Centre
Welcome winter’s arrival with a woodland hike and outdoor activities. Learn how local animals survive at this time of year, and find out how to keep warm in wintery weather. If there’s snow, we’ll even go snowshoeing.
REGISTER BY DECEMBER 14.
Download flyer
To register, contact Lindon Barrett at 905-527-2049, ext. 529 or email lbarrett@sisohamilton.org. You must book your seats in advance (registration deadline five days before each program).
Numbers are limited to the first 50 who sign up, and the program location varies from month to month. Dress for the weather. Proper footwear advised as the trails are rough in spots. Transportation provided the bus leaves SISO (Liuna Station office) at 1 p.m.
Be a Canadian Steward of Nature
Help to create homes for birds and butterflies, right here in your neighbourhood.
You and your entire family can enjoy a fun experience with other members of your community while taking care of nature. Participate in a community project coordinated by the Hamilton Naturalists’ Club to bring nature to Hamilton’s north end.
Special Ecoleaders’ volunteer days are being held on:
• Saturday, August 15; 1 to 3 p.m.
Plant and take care of the trees and wildflowers
• Saturday, September 19; 1 to 3 p.m.
Tag monarch butterflies as they head off on their migration to Mexico
Meet at SISO’s Liuna Station offices at 1 p.m. for a
10-minute walk to the Land’s Inlet site. Sign up by
August 10 or September 14.
Download flyer
Please register with Lindon Barrett at 905-527-2049, ext. 529 or email lbarrett@sisohamilton.org if you plan on participating. Please indicate the number of children and adults who will participate.
Families are welcome. Dress for the weather, and wear clothes that can get a bit muddy. Equipment provided. Meet at SISO at the start time noted. The project site is a short walk away.

Program Partners
Ecoleaders is an environmental education program for newcomers offered by Royal Botanical Gardens and the Settlement and Integration Services Organization. This program is funded by the Hamilton Community Foundation and is also supported by Parks Canada Discovery Centre, Hamilton Naturalists’ Club and Bay Area Restoration Council.
Summer, 2009
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