Please note: For all travel locations we meet at the municipal parking lot to the west of the Ingersoll Arena at 9:00 a.m., unless otherwise stated. For any activities at the Lawson Nature Reserve, please go directly there.
All activities are subject to change. We will do our best to notify in advance.
Download the Activities Calendar.
Saturday, December 27 – 9:00 a.m. at LAWSON NATURE RESERVE / CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT
Started in 1900, the Christmas Bird Count is North America’s longest running citizen science project. Counts happen in over 2000 localities throughout the Western Hemisphere. Join the camaraderie – come out to the Reserve and help with the count. We work as a group – no bird identification experience necessary. Binoculars a definite asset…some may be provided. Contact Peter, 519-425-0429.
LIBRARY LECTURE SERIES – NATURE NOTES
Note: All of our Library Lecture Series take place at the Ingersoll Public Library Meeting Room
Wednesday, January 14 – 7 p.m. – WILDLIFE PHOTO RETROSPECTIVE with Terry Parker
Local Canadian wildlife photographer Terry Parker will offer a curated overview of his best career photos. With 30 years of professional experience his extensive knowledge and travels across Canada guarantees an interesting and informative showcase of our country’s natural diversity. Contact Sheila, 519-485-2645.
Wednesday, February 11 – 7:00 p.m. NORTH BY NORTHWEST – SWAN MIGRATION with Pud Hunter
Pud Hunter, long-time volunteer with the Aylmer Wildlife Management Area, will engage attendees with the amazing story of the tundra swan spring migration. Pud is an experienced wildlife professional and has much to offer not only about swans, but also fish, wildlife and ecosystems. Join us for an interesting overview and entertaining conversation. Contact, Sheila, 519-485-2645.
Wednesday, March 11 – 7:00 p.m. DESTINATION ANTARCTICA with Richard Skevington
A lifelong naturalist and member of the Woodstock Field Naturalists’ Club, Richard Skevington will join us to present an engaging talk and slideshow on his recent travels to Antarctica. Richard weaves a compelling and enlightening story that you won’t want to miss. Contact Sheila, 519-485-2645.
Saturday, March 14 /ARCHIE COULTER CONSERVATION AREA AND MAPLE SYRUP FESTIVAL
The Archie Coulter Conservation Area is a new location for our club. Located at 46900 Brouwer’s Line, just north of Springwater Conservation Area. The area stretches for 133 acres along the west branch of Catfish Creek. The area’s easily walkable 4.2 km trail provides a window into our beautiful Carolinian Zone.
March also features the Maple Syrup Festival just down the road – come enjoy great pancakes and maple syrup across from the Springwater Conservation Area. We will eat first!! On the way home, a stop at the Aylmer viewing stands to watch migrating swans and geese is also an option for those interested.
Contact Meg, 519-485-4220.
Saturday, April 18 / FINGAL WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA
This conservation area has a system of hiking trails geared to all tastes and ability levels. There are 21 km of trails altogether, through a variety of habitats. A waterfowl viewing stand allows visitors to observe a 3-acre pond. East of the pond are 9 acres of tall grass prairie encircled by a walking trail. With over 200 species of wildlife identified during breeding and migration seasons, the area is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The property is co-managed by Elgin Stewardship Council and MNR. Located at 34469 Fingal Line, Fingal. Contact Ken, 519-539-5234.
Saturday, May 16 / BIRDING at HODGES POND
Hodges Pond is a former millpond that has been transformed over the past decade through the hard work of a local project team and volunteers, with tremendous support from funding partners. The ecological enhancement started with a dam removal project in 2016 and has continued with the construction of more than a dozen wetland cells, in-stream habitat improvements, thousands of trees planted and installation of several wildlife nest structures. The waterway has been returned to a meandering, cold-water stream which now houses 14 different fish species. This loop trail provides for an easy walk through prime wetland with ample opportunity to view migrating and resident birds. This project is an ongoing partnership across Ducks Unlimited Canada, Oxford County, Stewardship Oxford, UTRCA and the MNR. Contact Sheila, 519-485-2645.
Saturday, June 6 – 9 a.m. meet at the Reserve / LAWSON NATURE RESERVE CLEAN-UP DAY
Community members are welcome to join us for clean-up activities at the Reserve, including trail maintenance, garlic mustard extraction and painting. Bring gloves, bug spray, and wear sturdy boots. This property is solely managed by volunteer hours. Helping hands are always greatly appreciated. Contact Meg, 519-485-4220.
NOTE: Additional activities may be added on an ad hoc basis as opportunities arise.
We welcome newcomers to participate in any or all our activities. We are interested in the development and preservation of nature in Oxford County.
For more information about the Club and the Lawson Nature Reserve go to: http://www.ingersollnatureclub.com
Ingersoll District Nature Club 