| Green Space
Green Space efforts are concentrated on increasing the beauty, habitat potential and public use of parks and playgrounds. The Environment Network works very closely with local municipalities and their departments providing technical advice and administrative services.
In Collingwood, we have been working closely with municipal Green Space staff over the past few years in order to establish an Integrated Pest Management Policy for the municipality. In April 2001, the municipal council adopted a one-year interim policy. This policy can be viewed by linking to Town of Collingwood. This policy provides staff with guidance and technical information on how to deal with pests in a safe and effective manner. As a rule, parks and playgrounds will not be sprayed in order to ensure safe, healthy areas for us to enjoy and for our children to play. All measures will be taken to avoid using chemical sprays when dealing with pests unless the situation cannot be corrected without chemical intervention. In the event that a chemical solution is required, a very strict process is followed by Town Staff to ensure the proper amount of chemical is used, safe application procedures are followed and proper restrictions of public access follows the application.
The Environment Network is actively promoting a reduction in pesticide use for cosmetic purposes through the Pesticide Free, Naturally! campaign. We are distributing Action Kits to residents in order to raise awareness on the pesticide issue. The Action Kit includes information on how to have a healthy lawn without chemicals, pesticide poisoning, human health effects, pesticides and your pet and kids activities. If you would like one of our Pesticide Free, Naturally! Action Kits click here. Or if you would like someone to come and speak to your organization or group please click here.
One of the projects that The Environment Network is most proud of is the Optimist Harbourview Park Regeneration Project. The natural environment of the park has been enhanced for humans and wildlife as a result of the partnership with The Environment Network, the municipal Green Space Committee and the Collingwood Optimists.
Entranceways, scenic overlooks, new pathways and wildlife corridors have been planted with trees, shrubs and wildflowers. This park was once a landfill and it now hosts an arboretum operated by the Collingwood Horticultural Society.
In 1994 The Environment Network was proud to be able to add to ENVIROPARK by providing the XeroScape Garden surrounding Collingwood’s most popular children’s playground. (See Education for details on this incredible learning/play experience for children.) The XeroScape Garden is a garden which demonstrates to visitors how landscaping can be achieved by using plants that are native or naturalized to the area and require little or no water other than that which falls naturally.
In 1996-97 the Jack Saunders Bridge was constructed by The Environment Network through the Youth Services Program and Human Resources Development Canada. This project has created a most attractive entrance to Optimist Harbourview Park, inviting visitors to stroll along the path, over a lovely wetland and into the park.
Other projects include:
Town Sign Plantings
Ecological Garden
Millenium Overlook Park
Trail Heads and Trail Gardens
The Environment Network specializes in community involvement regarding green space projects. We strive to involve residents in developing their community through green space enhancement. Residents want to, and enjoy contributing to their community in a meaningful way. Green space projects are a great way to get involved! If you want to get your hands dirty doing something for your community, or if you are part of a service club or organization who wants others to physically see the results of your hard work get in touch with us and we can help to connect you to a worthwhile project.
Contact us for more information! |
