River Valley Conservation Projects Resume
Since 2012 the Friends of the Helen Schuler Nature Centre Society have encouraged participation in annual conservation projects like Coulee Clean-Up, Shoreline Clean-Up, and Invasive Weed Pulls in the Lethbridge River Valley. Since 2017 we provide funding support for supplies, volunteer appreciation, and coordination of the conservation projects. We have also adopted a natural area to steward near Popson Park and Cottonwood Park in West Lethbridge.
Helen Schuler Nature Centre is now recruiting volunteers to make a difference in our river valley this spring and summer with Coulee Cleanup, Shoreline Cleanup, and Invasive Weed Pulls.
River Valley Conservation programs encourage residents of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to pick up litter and “leave it better than they found it!” Participation is an effective way to have a positive environmental impact and increase connection with our community.
“In 2020 we had to suspend the Coulee Cleanup effort as a result of COVID-19,” says Curtis Goodman, Resource Development Coordinator at Helen Schuler Nature Centre, “We know there has been more people spending time outside enjoying natural spaces in Lethbridge, projects like Coulee Cleanup help maintain and restore these sensitive areas.”
As a result of Lethbridge’s river valley conservation projects over 4,000 bags of garbage have since been removed - helping to take action for the betterment of people, animals, and the Oldman Watershed!
Important changes for River Valley Conservation Projects in 2021:
Focus on solo, household, and small team cleanups.
Traditionally the Nature Centre has encouraged and supported large group efforts; in 2021 the Nature Centre will support small groups in accordance with public health guidelines.
Encouraging participants to use their own gloves and bags.
Traditionally the Nature Centre has provided supply kits for groups; in 2021 the Nature Centre will encourage participants to use their own gloves and bags (limited glove and bag supply is available for individual pick up from the Nature Centre).
River Valley Conservation Project Schedule at a Glance:
Coulee Cleanup (April & May)
April 22-May 31
Prospective participants can review the online map of clean-up areas: http://bit.ly/2qYhkqO before signing up using the online form at Lethbridge.ca/cleanshoreline
Shoreline Cleanup (First Saturdays)
Celebrate your Shoreline on the first Saturday of every month from May to September!
May 1
June 5
July 3
August 7
Remember - your shoreline starts at your front door - litter that enters storm drains at the street level will generally lead directly into the river. Cleaning up litter ANYWHERE is helpful and makes a big difference to our watershed's health! Please track the litter you find using the data card.
If you need supplies, visit the Helen Schuler Nature Centre anytime between 10am-4pm to pick up gloves, a bag, and data sheet, then go for a stroll and track the litter you pick up! When you are done, submit your data as part of the national Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup database.
Invasive Weed Pull (Third Wednesdays)
Do your part to protect our local biodiversity on the third Wednesday of every month from May to August! Visit the locations below anytime between 6-8pm to get an orientation and supplies, then help us minimize the impacts of prohibited noxious weeds.
May 19 – Coulee Climb at Helen Schuler
June 16 – Elizabeth Hall Wetlands
July 21 – Galt Museum
August 18 – Coulee Climb at Helen Schuler
No pre-registration necessary, simply meet at the designated location on the corresponding date/time. We provide gloves, bags, and orientation so you know what to look for!
Please note, weed pull events may involve strenuous physical activity.
River Valley Conservation programs are made possible thanks to the leadership of our partners, including: B93, Country 95, Alberta Ecotrust Foundation, Alberta Conservation Association, Lethbridge Parks, Friends of the Helen Schuler Nature Centre Society, and the City of Lethbridge.
For more information on River Valley Conservation programs in Lethbridge:
Visit: Lethbridge.ca/cleanshoreline;
Call: 403-320-3064;
Email: Curtis.Goodman@lethbridge.ca