Citizen Science in the Woods

Apr 27, 2017

On Saturday, May 6, enjoy the great outdoors with a spring walk in the woods and a new citizen science project offered by the Ontario Woodlot Association. The distinctive topography of the Frontenac Axis is the setting for families to take part in a half day of exploration and learning. Registration is required.

The Woods Walk will feature forester, Justin Smith, leading an examination of how the geology and the soil shaped the forest on his family’s property. The property is relatively untouched; the last timber harvest was 80 years ago, so this is a good example of a natural Frontenac Axis mixed forest. Wildflowers will be in bloom, so the group can put their heads together identifying flowers and forest plants.

In addition, the Limestone Chapter of the Ontario Woodlot Association will introduce their new “Citizen Science” project. Professional forester, Thom Snowman, will demonstrate how to set up a permanent test plot in your woods and use it to conduct a long term study of the growth characteristics of various species. This is an important step in understanding how a forest develops over time, and has applications in forest management planning and determining carbon sequestration capabilities.
Professionals will be on hand to answer questions about forestry and local resources. During lunch hour, there will be a short Annual General Meeting to discuss the program for the coming year.

The event runs from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm at 8333 Canoe Lake Road in South Frontenac.  Bring a lunch to enjoy at the lake shore. This event is free for all OWA members; a $5 donation is requested from non-members to be used for landowner kits for the Citizen Science Project.

Register in advance; due to restricted parking, the number of participants may be limited. (Carpooling please!) Contact Dave Sexsmith at 613-373-9334 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. For more on the organization, visit www.ontariowoodlot.com