☀️Summer Highlights

National Indigenous History Month

June is National Indigenous History Month and includes National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21. It is an opportunity to recognize and honour the history, cultures, and experiences of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples in Canada. Many people choose to wear an orange shirt on June 21 or throughout the month of June as a visible expression of their commitment to learning about Indigenous history, advancing reconciliation, and honouring survivors of residential schools.

As a land trust, we recognize that our conservation work takes place on traditional Indigenous territories. This month, we encourage our members and supporters to learn more about Indigenous histories, cultures, and teachings about caring for the land and waters that sustain us.

You can participate in several events and learning opportunities taking place in and near the Lake of Bays region:

National Indigenous Peoples Day in Huntsville
A two-day community celebration.

• June 21 – Cultural programming, live performances, and vendors at River Mill Park.
• June 22 – Education and youth programming at Muskoka Heritage Place.

Misko-Aki: Confluence of Cultures
Muskoka Discovery Centre, Gravenhurst.

This engaging exhibit explores the histories, cultures, and relationships that have shaped the Muskoka region, offering visitors an opportunity to learn more about Indigenous perspectives and the shared history of the area.

Regalia: Indigenous Pride
Parry Sound Friendship Centre, throughout the summer.

This acclaimed travelling exhibition features 30 striking portraits of powwow dancers from across Eastern Canada and explores the stories, artistry, and cultural significance of traditional regalia. Admission is free of charge. More information here.

Learn More

Many Indigenous education and cultural initiatives in the Huntsville area are supported by the Hope Arises Project. Visit their website for information about local events, learning opportunities, and resources that support a deeper understanding of Indigenous history, culture, and reconciliation.

News from Marsh's Falls Nature Reserve

A Record Bird Count

The Dr. Cathy Charles Bird Count took place on May 2 and attracted a record 23 participants. A big thank you to Rick Stronks, Kelly Stronks, Laura Gilmour, and Wendy Hill for sharing their birding knowledge with the large group.

Thirty-one species were observed, including two Broad-winged Hawks, a Common Loon flying overhead, Hairy Woodpeckers, and Black-capped Chickadees building a nest. Participants also marveled at the loud and lingering songs of the tiny Winter Wren and the Ruby-crowned Kinglet.

The annual bird count honours the memory of Dr. Cathy Charles, a lifelong Lake of Bays cottager, university professor, nature enthusiast, and generous supporter of the Lake of Bays Heritage Foundation. Before her passing in 2015, Cathy made a significant bequest to the Foundation, and the bird count was named in her memory to celebrate her love of birds and nature.

We were pleased to welcome four of Cathy Charles's classmates from her university days, who joined us to honour her memory: Ros Barden, Valerie Mackie, Pamela Bowen, and Jeanette Callahan.

Thank You, Volunteers

Our sincere thanks to volunteers, Willie Buffett, Richard Fine, Will McConnell, Kelly Stronks, and to trail coordinator Rick Stronks. Throughout the winter, they monitored the trails, helping to keep them clear of fallen branches and reporting on wildlife activity. This spring, they also assisted with the annual trail cleanup and removed trees brought down by recent weather, helping to keep the trails safe and accessible.

A New StoryWalk for Families

Last summer, a StoryWalk called A Mischief of Mice was installed at the Nature Reserve. A StoryWalk is a fun and innovative way to combine literacy, physical activity, and outdoor exploration, making it especially enjoyable for children and families.

This summer, we are excited to introduce a new StoryWalk featuring I Hear You, Forest by Kallie George and illustrated by Carmen Mok. As children journey along the trail, page by page, they will discover how the forest is alive with sounds, wonder, and quiet wisdom. The story encourages readers of all ages to slow down, listen closely, and build a deeper connection with nature.

Planning a Visit

If you would like to visit Marsh's Falls Nature Reserve, please register in advance. Upon registering online, you will receive access and parking information, along with a trail map.

Registration helps us monitor trail use, support stewardship planning, and strengthen future grant applications. Thank you for helping us care for this special place.

Fun Ways to Connect with Nature: Summer Events

Join us this summer for outdoor events led by local naturalists that celebrate the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Lake of Bays region.

🦋 Butterfly Count
Saturday, July 4 | 9:00 a.m.–Noon
Marsh's Falls Nature Reserve

Help identify and count local butterfly species while enjoying a summer morning in nature. No experience necessary. Families are welcome.

🛶 Silent Boat Rally
Saturday, July 25 | 9:00 a.m.
Dwight Beach

Paddle the beautiful Lower Oxtongue River by canoe, kayak, or paddleboard while learning about its ecology and wildlife. Includes a wildlife spotting contest and lunch beside Marsh's Falls. Registration fee: $25 per person.

🍄 Mushroom Forays
Saturday, August 22 and Saturday, August 29 | 9:00 a.m.

Join us for a walk in the woods and learn about wild mushrooms, their habitats, distinctive features, and important roles in forest ecosystems. Suitable for all ages and experience levels.

Advance registration is required for all events.

Annual General Meeting

Join us for the Lake of Bays Heritage Foundation's Annual General Meeting at the Lake of Bays Community Centre, 10 University Street, Baysville on Saturday August 15.

Coffee will be served at 9:30 a.m., followed by the meeting at 10:00 a.m. Lunch will be provided at noon. Everyone is welcome.

The meeting will be held on the second floor. An elevator is available for easier accessibility.

In addition to the annual business meeting, which includes reports from the President and Treasurer and the election of Directors, attendees will enjoy two special presentations:

The Story of Westermain Woods
Enjoy a short video exploring the history of Westermain Woods, a remarkable property recently donated to the Foundation. We are deeply grateful for this generous gift and for Joan Lehman's contribution in helping bring the property's story to life.

Conservation in Ontario is Accelerating
Jill Murray-Dimic, Director of Development at the Ontario Conservation Accelerator (OCA), will discuss how conservation efforts are gaining momentum across Ontario. Jill previously spent 17 years with the Nature Conservancy of Canada. OCA was created to address the urgency in providing societal access to nature, growth in the land trust movement, the need for tangible action towards reconciliation with Indigenous communities and the issue of climate change and loss of biodiversity.

We hope you will join us to learn more about the Foundation's work, connect with fellow members and supporters, and celebrate another year of conservation in the Lake of Bays region.

Your Support Makes It Possible

As a charitable, volunteer-driven organization, we rely on the generosity of our community to help protect the natural heritage of the Lake of Bays region.

Your donations help us conserve ecologically significant lands, protect wildlife habitat, maintain trails, and offer nature programs for all ages. Every gift, large or small, helps make this work possible.

Under the Foundation’s bylaws, a donation of $40 provides annual membership. Individuals or couples who donate $1,000 or more in a single year become Life Members, with additional levels recognized through cumulative giving.

To become a member or make a donation, please visit our website.