Kolapore Uplands Management Area – Compartment 93 (Sawlog and Fuelwood Tender – GSC-26-02)

Kolapore Uplands Management Area – Compartment 96 (Sawlog and Fuelwood Tender – GSC-26-02)

Tender closing date: Monday November 23, 2026 at 4:00PM

For immediate release

Grey Sauble Conservation Authority (GSCA) has received a $30,000 grant from the Greenbelt Foundation to support the Green Fields, Clean Streams project, an initiative that will help rural landowners in Grey and Bruce counties protect soil health, improve water quality, and enhance their environmental stewardship. The project will engage rural landowners across the GSCA watershed through education and on-the-ground support. Funding will enable the installation of approximately 1,250 metres of exclusion fencing to keep livestock out of watercourses and the establishment of up to 500 acres of cover crops to improve soil health, reduce erosion, and enhance water quality.

The Green Fields, Clean Streams project supports the long-term health of Ontario’s Greenbelt, a working landscape that contains just 6.1% of the province’s farmland but is home to 9.6% of Ontario’s farms, highlighting its critical role in the province’s food system, environmental sustainability, and economic prosperity. Eligible landowners do not need to own property directly within the Greenbelt to access funding, reflecting the interconnected nature of watersheds and the importance of supporting stewardship efforts across the broader landscape to achieve lasting environmental benefits.

“We are grateful to the Greenbelt Foundation for its investment in stewardship across our watershed,” said Keith Reid, Stewardship Technician with Grey Sauble Conservation Authority. “This funding allows us to work directly with local landowners to implement practical projects that protect water quality, improve soil health, and support sustainable farming practices. By combining education with on-the-ground action, we’re creating lasting environmental benefits while helping landowners enhance the long-term resilience of their properties.”

GSCA is thankful for the Greenbelt Foundation’s partnership in advancing environmental health and sustainable agriculture in Grey and Bruce counties. For more information about how the Greenbelt Foundation is working to ensure Ontario’s two-million-acre Greenbelt remains protected and healthy, visit www.greenbelt.ca.

Landowners interested in learning more about this project and available funding opportunities are encouraged to contact Keith Reid at 519-376-3076 or k.reid@greysauble.on.ca.

For more information:
Grey Sauble Conservation Authority
media@greysauble.on.ca

Background:

Vision: A vibrant watershed, supported by GSCA, where ecosystems thrive, and communities are healthy, safe and prosperous.

Mission: To champion a healthy and safe watershed through innovative conservation efforts, sound planning, and inspiring education initiatives, now and in the future.

For immediate release

Grey Sauble Conservation Authority (GSCA) welcomed volunteers, project partners, Indigenous collaborators, and supporters to Bognor Marsh Management Area on September 18 to celebrate the success of the Echoes of the Marsh project and recognize the dedication of volunteers who have helped protect at-risk turtle species throughout the watershed. The event also marked the official unveiling of new educational signage featuring Indigenous language, artwork, and storytelling designed to promote turtle conservation and deepen visitors’ connections to the landscape.

The celebration recognized the many individuals and organizations who contributed to the success of the project, which was made possible through funding support from the Greenbelt Foundation. The Echoes of the Marsh initiative was developed to protect at-risk turtle species in Bognor Marsh through community stewardship, nest protection, environmental education, and the incorporation of Indigenous knowledge and language into conservation outreach.

“Bognor Marsh is one of Grey County’s most ecologically significant wetlands, and the success of this project demonstrates what can be achieved through strong partnerships and community stewardship,” said Chelsea Vieira, Environmental Educator with GSCA. “Our volunteers have dedicated countless hours to monitoring turtle nesting activity, protecting nests, engaging the public, and helping inspire the next generation of conservation stewards.”

The afternoon included remarks from GSCA staff and Board representatives, recognition of project partners and sponsors, reflections from Indigenous collaborators, a live painting and auction by local artist Sarah McComb-Turbitt, a meet-and-greet with live reptiles from Scales Nature Park, and a talk by Jenna McGuire, scientific illustrator and wildlife biologist, on turtle conservation. Volunteers were acknowledged for their ongoing commitment to protecting local turtle populations and raising awareness about the challenges these species face, including habitat loss, road mortality, and nest predation.

A highlight of the celebration was the unveiling of a six-sign educational installation, developed collaboratively by Indigenous partners and GSCA to share knowledge, foster understanding, and promote turtle conservation. The signage features original artwork by Charmaine Jenner, Indigenous language and cultural content provided by Chastity Jenner-Keeshig, and audio recordings by Anishinaabe Knowledge Keeper and storyteller, Elder John K.L. Keeshig. The installation includes a primary interpretive sign that explores turtle conservation, Anishinaabe teachings, and ways people can help turtles, as well as five additional species-focused signs that highlight turtles found, or historically found, in Bognor Marsh and the challenges they face.

Bognor Marsh spans approximately 668 hectares of wetlands, forest, springs, and trails, providing important habitat for a variety of wildlife, including Common Snapping Turtles and Midland Painted Turtles. Through initiatives such as nest protection, volunteer stewardship, educational programming, and public engagement, the Echoes of the Marsh project is helping ensure these species remain part of the landscape for generations to come.

GSCA extends sincere thanks to the Greenbelt Foundation, Indigenous partners, volunteers, educators, community supporters, and conservation advocates whose contributions made the project possible.

For more information:
Grey Sauble Conservation Authority
education@greysauble.on.ca

Background:

Vision: A vibrant watershed, supported by GSCA, where ecosystems thrive, and communities are healthy, safe and prosperous.

Mission: To champion a healthy and safe watershed through innovative conservation efforts, sound planning, and inspiring education initiatives, now and in the future.

July 2, 2026
For immediate release

Grey Sauble Conservation Authority (GSCA) is recognizing the remarkable career and lasting contributions of Water Resources Coordinator, John Bittorf, who is retiring after 40 years of dedicated service to the organization.

John began his career with GSCA as a tree planter and later joined GSCA as a Water Resources Technician. Through years of dedication, expertise, and leadership, he progressed to the role of Water Resources Coordinator, helping shape and strengthen the organization along the way. During his career, John played a pivotal role in rebuilding and expanding GSCA’s water monitoring network and flood forecasting system. His work has been instrumental in enhancing the organization’s ability to monitor watershed conditions, provide flood forecasting services, and support the municipalities and communities GSCA serves.

“John’s career is a testament to the impact one individual can have on an organization and the communities it serves,” said GSCA CAO Tim Lanthier. “His practical problem-solving skills, technical expertise, and commitment to protecting our watershed have left a lasting mark on Grey Sauble Conservation.”

Throughout his career, John was known for his resourcefulness and ability to develop innovative solutions, often with limited resources. His steady, thoughtful approach helped build the systems, partnerships, and relationships that continue to support GSCA’s work today. While never one to seek the spotlight, John generously shared his knowledge with conservation authority staff across the province, partners, community groups, and the public, helping to foster a greater understanding of watershed management and conservation issues. He was also a strong supporter of environmental education initiatives for children across the watershed that inspired countless young people to develop an appreciation for the environment and encouraged the next generation of environmental stewards.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions and lasting legacy, GSCA is naming the Benthic Identification Laboratory, located in the newly renovated Administration Centre, in John’s honour.

As he begins his retirement, the staff at GSCA extend their sincere gratitude to John for his dedication, expertise, and service over the past 40 years and wish him all the best in this next chapter.

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Photo (L-R): Tim Lanthier (CAO, Grey Sauble Conservation), John Bittorf

For more information:
Grey Sauble Conservation Authority
media@greysauble.on.ca

Background: 

Vision: A vibrant watershed, supported by GSCA, where ecosystems thrive, and communities are healthy, safe and prosperous. 

Mission: To champion a healthy and safe watershed through innovative conservation efforts, sound planning, and inspiring education initiatives, now and in the future.