Willow Park receives $6K grant

Willow Park Ecology Centre (WPEC) was awarded a $6,000 Green Grant from Wal-Mart and Evergreen for its Fish and Turtle Habitat Improvements and Floating Education Platforms. Located in the Norval, WPEC aims to restore turtle nesting sites as well as to protect the shore of the wetland pond by building a boardwalk and floating platforms for education programs. As well, WPEC will be offering recreational learning programs. Residents can now partake in a community-based Organic Vegetable and Fruit Gardens program as well as a program to increase bird habitat and bird populations with bird boxes and suitable plantings. This project includes both physical additions to the park and the creation of bird monitoring programs, outdoor recreation and gardening events, and education rsources for both schools and residents. The Willow Park Ecology Centre operates as a non-profit community partnership dedicated to maintaining the natural habitat for flora and fauna and to educate and inform about ecological and environmental issues of Willow Park. Green Grants are chosen by a review committee consisting of Evergreen staff and external experts from conservation organizations and government agencies across the country. Over $260,000 will be awarded in 2006.

Willow Park Ecology Centre (WPEC) will be offering recreational learning programs after receiving a WalMart-Evergreen Green Grant for $6,000. On hand to accept the cheque were (from left) WPEC staffer Jennifer Robinson, WPEC steering committee member Brian Thomas, Wal-Mart-Evergreen Green Grant and Stewardship Co-ordinator Sue Arndt, Councillor Mike Davis, WPEC Co-ordinator Tunde Otto-Harris, Councillor Joan Robson and Councillor Michael O'Leary.