Volunteers pulling garlic mustard - Toronto Zoo
Plans for the International Decade Biodiversity
There’s a lot going on to celebrate the International Decade of Biodiversity, across Ontario and around the globe! Visit the links below to learn more and to take part in appreciating, conserving, and protecting biodiversity.
You can get involved! Why not take part in the Christmas Bird Count? The results help us better understand distribution and numbers of birds in the winter. Christmas Bird Counts take place on one day between December 14 and January 5. To find a count near you, visit: Bird Studies Canada
The Biodiversity Education and Awareness Network (BEAN) and its partners are holding dozens of events across the province to celebrate the International Decade of Biodiversity. Visit their Event Calendar to find out how you can get involved in your area, from helping to fight invasive species like the Garlic Mustard plant or volunteering in a White Pine seed orchard. There are lots of ways to make a difference where you live!
Get outside and visit one of Ontario’s Parks! Experience biodiversity firsthand and learn about the amazing variety of life in our province. Check out the events listing on the Ontario Parks website to find out about nature walks, outdoors adventures, and informative events that are taking place in Ontario Parks.
Want to get your hands dirty? Take part in Ontario’s Plant a Tree Challenge. Read the Tree Atlas and find out which native tree species grow best where you live. What a great way to get involved and celebrate the International Decade of Biodiversity.
The Ontario Biodiversity Council was created in 2005 to guide the implementation of Ontario’s Biodiversity Strategy. On May 17th, 2010 the council releases the first ever State of Ontario’s Biodiversity 2010 report, along with the Ontario’s Biodiversity Strategy Progress Report, 2005-2010. On June 22, 2011 the council released the renewed Ontario Biodiversity Strategy, 2011. These reports will inform and inspire activity across the province – you can read and download them on the Ontario Biodiversity Council website.
