Media Release
For Immediate Release
Friday, February 23, 2024
Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority Celebrates Successes and Recognizes Community Contributions at 2023 Annual General Meeting
University of Guelph Ridgetown Campus, February 22, 2024 – The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (LTVCA) held its 2023 Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the University of Guelph Ridgetown Campus, marking another year of environmental stewardship and community engagement.
The meeting commenced with an insightful presentation by Peter Zuzek, owner of Zuzek Inc. Zuzek provided an update on Integrated Coastal Governance on Lake Erie. His discussion encompassed studies conducted along the Lake Erie coastline, with a focus on areas such as Rondeau Bay and Point Pelee.
Following the presentation, the LTVCA proudly presented three Volunteer Hero Awards to commend outstanding community members for their dedicated efforts. These awards are given in commendation of their dedication to the environment and their support of the LTVCA’s endeavours, the recipients included:
- The Rotary Satellite Club of Chatham-Kent, accepted by Jennifer Jacobson, for their exceptional work in restoring the C.M. Wilson Learning Centre.
- The Scouts Canada #19 Chatham Group, recognized for their longstanding commitment to volunteering, which includes activities such as tree planting, river clean-ups, and renovations at the C.M. Wilson Learning Centre.
- Gary Eagleson, honored for a remarkable 16 years of volunteer service at the Chatham-Kent and Lambton Children’s Water Fest.
Continuing the spirit of recognition, the LTVCA bestowed Conservation Awards upon individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to environmental conservation:
- Blaise Chevalier, Chatham-Kent Drainage Superintendent, was acknowledged for his collaborative efforts with the LTVCA in restoring erosion along drains through nature-based solutions and other impactful projects.
- Gary and Linda Kalita were recognized as the most generous landowners for their significant contribution of planting 2,000 trees on their property and their ongoing care and maintenance of these trees.
The official board meeting commenced with a land acknowledgement by Mark Peacock, CAO/Secretary-Treasurer, followed by remarks by Sara Emons, Board Chair, who highlighted the LTVCA’s successes over the past year. Notable achievements included the commencement of construction on the Indigenous Learning Centre at the Ska-Nah-Doht Museum, as well as the restoration of the C.M. Wilson Learning Centre. Additionally, the LTVCA celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Ska-Nah-Doht Village and Museum on August 13, 2023, welcoming over 900 visitors and acknowledging the dedication of its staff.
Amanda Blain, Communications Specialist, presented a summary of the annual report, showcasing significant milestones achieved by the LTVCA. Highlights included:
- the planting of over 71,000 seedlings across the watershed,
- restoration of nearly 5 acres of wetlands,
- establishment of almost 40 acres of tallgrass prairie,
- planting of 625 large stock trees in urban areas,
- removal of 1,500 lbs of garbage from the Thames River,
- planting of cover crops across 8,900 acres,
- and engagement of over 5,000 students in educational programs.
In a unanimous decision, the board re-elected Sarah Emons as Chair for a second term, with Trevor Thompson and Paul Tiessen elected as Vice-Chairs.
The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority extends its gratitude to all our volunteers, partners, and community members for their continued support and dedication to environmental conservation and stewardship.
For more information, please contact:
Mark Peacock
CAO/ Secretary-Treasurer
[email protected]
519-354-7310 x 224
Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority
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