Scugog Connections Opens its Doors to the Community
Scugog Connections, a community-based environmental action centre is open for business. The centre is a resource for local residents looking to take the small but impactful steps to ensure a sustainable quality of life on Lake Scugog. The program aims to encourage the community to play an active role in the health of their environment while promoting responsible water stewardship.
“I am confident these funds from the Ontario Trillium Foundation will give citizens the information and encouragement needed to improve our stewardship of the Lake Scugog watershed, “ says John O’Toole, MPP for Durham. “I would like to commend all of the partners for their initiative, and wish them continued success.”
Scugog Connections is a part of the Lake Scugog Environmental Management Plan (LSEMP). The new program serves as a hub for educational and outreach activities. The new centre is located in downtown Port Perry on Water Street, this central location allows for greater outreach and accessibility for residents. Over the next year Scugog Connections will be engaging with residents through workshops, awareness campaigns and stewardship projects such as tree planting and enhancing urban green spaces.
“We plan on developing the program by first by focusing on the Lake Scugog Environmental Management (LSEMP) Action Plan within the first year,” says Carlie McDonald, Program Coordinator, Scugog Connections. “Moving forward a broad range of sustainability initiatives will be incorporated into the program. These initiatives will involve a wide range of partner organizations, youth groups, students, landowners and volunteers.”
Durham Sustain Ability is leading the Scugog Connections project, and has partnered with Kawartha Conservation, the Scugog Lake Stewards, and the Durham Land Stewardship Council. The Ontario Trillium Foundation has provided a grant for $225,000, which will help fund the new Scugog Connections centre and coordinator position over the next 3 years.