WINGS OF CHANGE

Consider the Monarch Butterfly and the troubles they must contend with throughout North America. Illegal logging, use of pesticides and herbicides, habitat loss and the misunderstanding of milkweed (its only host plant) have led to its demise.

Thankfully, concerned groups have taken up the cause. In the fall of 2014, a newly formed community group, “Butterfly Gardens of Saugeen Shores” spearheaded by naturalists’, Melitta Smole, Stew Nutt and Kerry Jarvis was formed. They were determined to make a difference with their ambitious plans of creating butterfly garden friendly pods throughout Saugeen Shores to help save the Monarchs. Their purpose was to provide a food source for Monarchs and other pollinators – enhance the visitors experience in Saugeen Shores and educate people on the plight of Monarch butterflies and native gardening.

By the end of 2015, Butterfly Gardens of Saugeen Shores had planted over 1,400 native plants in 13 different pods. The largest pods are along the Lake Huron shoreline in the newly created Captain Spence Path in Southampton. Other pods were created at: Saugeen First Nation, MacGregor Point Provincial Park, Perkins Park, and the Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre. All of these pods have been certified and registered as Monarch Way Stations. Lending a hand is something Canadians do well. In year one of this project, over 60 volunteers contributed over 1,720 hours to assist our troubled Monarchs. (Story and photographs by Kerry Jarvis)

Join Kerry Jarvis as he showcases some very special gardens throughout Saugeen Shores.

A34 – SUNDAY, MAY 29 – 1:30 pm – SAUGEEN SHORES BUTTERFLY TRAIL This workshop will start with a walk along the Captain Spence Path in Southampton, where Butterfly Gardens of Saugeen Shores planted over 1000 native plants! Planting native plants and providing shelter, water and food are key ingredients in attracting birds, insects, mammals, reptiles and amphibians to your property. You’ll learn about the “magic plants” that are magnets for birds, butterflies, caterpillars and mammals and the hidden secrets in successful gardening.

 REGISTER FOR A34 – SAUGEEN SHORES BUTTERFLY TRAIL – ONLINE – NOW

http://www.huronfringebirdingfestival.ca

Registration inquiries: 519-389-6231 birdfest@rogers.com

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