Animal and nature lovers in Oshawa have just received an awesome gift! GM has decided to donate their wildlife reserve to the city of Oshawa. This is an exciting development for those from near and far who will get to experience the beauty of nature in all its glory when the site becomes available to the public. It is not very often that you see major corporations chipping in to save nature but GM has gone one step further by making this very generous donation. It is also another victory for humane wildlife control groups in Oshawa that have been lobbying for more green spaces to facilitate wildlife conservation.

McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve, the land being donated, is close to Second Marsh and Darlington Provincial Park is a perfect addition to the wetlands of the province. The move will protect the area from being developed for industrial and commercial use. GM is doing more than just releasing the space into the city’s hands. The company has also pledged to help the city attain its sustainability and investment goals. The handover is GM’s way of signaling their commitment to investment in nature preservation and sustainability.

Who Really Benefits from a Move like This?

Of course, the people of Ontario can rejoice in the addition of one more space that will undoubtedly contribute to the mental and physical well-being of the thousands of visitors expected to stroll, hike or jog through its grounds annually.

But the biggest winner in a move like this is Mother Nature herself. The more green spaces people establish the more stable the ecosystem will be. The roots of greenery growing on the grounds hold the soil together and prevent soil loss. The benefits do not stop there. Green spaces like this one also help to improve the quality of the water in the lakes, rivers and streams which in turn translates into better water quality in your home and workplace.

The Value of Wetlands

Green havens like this one help to keep Durham’s wetlands thriving. This means a better chance of survival for the many species that rely on wetlands to live. Amphibians like wood frogs, the spotted salamanders and some species of fish thrive in these environments. The same is true for other animals who feed on the wetlands inhabitants. Alongside these animals, you’ll also find a wide range of plant life and microorganisms. Without the wetlands, the animals disappear, making survival difficult for their predators.

Perfect Teaching Moments

Knowledge is power and for those who enter Ontario’s hiking trails and nature centers, this power is both alluring and life-changing. You never leave the same after spending some time in the middle of Nature’s splendour. Guides are usually available to answer your questions, providing you with intriguing and important facts about the space you’re exploring.

The teaching opportunities are often used by schools to educate students about the diversity of nature as well as good conservation practices. The province’s conservation sites host over 400,000 students in environmental education campaigns throughout each year.  To top it all off, the hiking trails, picnic and camping areas and water features of these nature parks make them ideal spots to unwind.

To learn more about the importance of wildlife control and conservation, Skedaddle encourages everyone to visit one of Ontario’s beautiful provincial parks.