The Thames Bluewater Métis Council (TBWMC) has been hard at work building meaningful relationships through a series of community-based, grass-roots environmental initiatives.
Through various projects, TBWMC has shown its commitment to environmental sustainability, partnering with like-minded organizations such as the Water Rangers and Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) in its ongoing environmental initiatives.
Water Rangers have proven to be a valuable ally in the fight against climate change, by empowering local MNO citizens and providing the knowledge and tools to monitor the health of local lakes and waterways. Learn more about this great project here.
The Council also has a successful tree planting initiative. In October 2022, with support from UTRCA and the MNO Lands Resources and Consultation (LRC) branch, TBWMC started the process of connecting together two forested lots near Fanshawe Lake providing a natural pathway for animals to access the lake, while also reducing soil erosion.
“As you know, Southwestern Ontario has a deficit of forest cover and our waterways suffer from large amounts of soil erosion and fertilizer contamination,” shares TBWMC President Kathleen Anderson. “The more we can protect these natural landscapes the better for all of us, both current and future inhabitants of this area.”
The Council has recently received a $10,000 grant from Lush Cosmetics Environmental Grant. Lush Canada helps fund grassroots efforts on the frontlines of environmental justice like TBWMC’s ambitious work in challenging climate change and restoring the land to its natural state. The Métis Nation of Ontario Cultural Commission (MNOCC), as an arms-length registered charity, will help flow the funds to suitable project(s) identified by the council.
Through these powerful initiatives, TBWMC is doing its part to mitigate climate change and transform the local landscape back to its natural state; proving that there are great things on the horizon when our environment is respected and prioritized.
Those interested in participating in the hands-on protection of lands and waters are encouraged to contact the TBWMC: tbwmc.events@gmail.com.