The resources listed in this section provide readers with information specific to the Grey Bruce region that will help with sustainability projects and networking on sustainability issues. The resources are organized under the four sustainability pillars. Groups, publications, websites and individuals will be found within the pillars. The "sustainability" category is the catch all bucket for resources that apply to several pillars.
The Bruce Peninsula Biosphere Association oversees environmental management, community environmental engagement, sustainable development, conservation. Mandate: dedicated to achieving a healthy environment. Established in 2000, it became the first community committee to implement the concepts of UNESCO World Biosphere Reserves along the Niagara Escarpment. The Association promotes a healthy, sustainable community with a balance between local sustainable development and conservation. It strives to build local capacity by providing support for research, monitoring, education and information exchange related to local issues.
Grey Bruce Beekeepers Association works to ensure a thriving and sustainable beekeeping industry in Ontario. To this end, they advocate for beekeepers' interests, support honey bee health research and deliver practical training and information. The OBA undertakes its own honey bee health research, but also reviews and incorporates research and recommendations from other reputable sources into programs, strategies and materials to ensure beekeepers in Ontario are using the most up-to-date and effective beekeeping practices. The website also provides connections to the Tech Transfer Program (TTP) whom conduct research for Ontario's beekeeping industry, to facilitate a honey bee breeding program in Ontario and to transfer information, skills and methodologies to the beekeepers, the Ontario Bee Breeders Association (OBBA) who work with Ontario Beekeepers to produce high quality queens, queen cells and nucs through education and practical support and the Ontario Honey Bee Pollination Association (OHBPA)who promote agricultural pollination and supports beekeepers providing pollination services.
Stewardship Grey Bruce oversees sustainable resource management by encouraging actions that help people look after, improve and value the resources – forests, soil, water, air, fish, wildlife, aggregates, trails and people – in Bruce County for the future. The Network assists environmental groups, community associations, landowners, etc., in Bruce County to develop projects consistent with it's goals and objectives.
Bruce Peninsula Environment Group oversees environmental management, community environmental engagement, sustainable development and conservation, committed to preserving the unique ecology of the Bruce Peninsula and promoting a greater awareness of the diverse flora, fauna, geology, and cultural history of this region. BPEG seeks to build partnerships with other groups, agencies, and individuals in seeking cooperative community based solutions to present and future environmental challenges and concerns.
Nature Conservancy Canada protects areas of natural diversity for their intrinsic value and for the benefit of our children and those after them. Their mission is to lead, innovate and use creativity in the conservation of Canada's natural heritage by securing important natural areas through their purchase, donation or other mechanisms, and then manage these properties for the long term. The NCC values biological diversity and recognizes that it is being lost at a rate that impoverishes our quality of life and threatens our future. NCC has a number of partners, volunteers and projects that aim to be sustainability viable.
Niagara Escarpment Biosphere Conservancy aims to conserve the nature reserves and biodiversity in the area of the Niagara escarpment. "Since 1997, we've created 124 reserves on 9,353 acres of land…our reserves have 72 rare species and 18km of Lake Huron shoreline…we aim to enhance or restore areas of native species or natural habitat and to encourage and support scientific research and educational services." The Biosphere Conservancy aims educate the public about conservation and preservation of the landscape, ecology and wildlife on the escarpment partly through providing low impact, ecologically sustainable recreational opportunities.
Bruce Peninsula Wind Turbine Action Group is comprised of individuals in Bruce and Grey County that are concerned with the potential negative impacts of industrial wind turbine installations, which, have been proposed on the Bruce Peninsula. The group consists of writers, cartographers, researchers and concerned citizens all working together to put together a case to nix the proposal.
Saugeen Field Naturalists is an active club with the intent to develop an appreciation and understanding of all aspects of nature. Through education and by cooperation with other organizations the SFN has promoted the wise use and conservation of natural resources and encouraged the preservation of wild species and natural areas, especially in Grey and Bruce counties.
Ducks Unlimited Canada is the leader in wetland conservation, restoration and management.Ducks is a science-based conservation organization, in conjunction with the Institute for Wetland and Waterfowl Research (IWWR). Its respected biologists find answers to important environmental questions and establish the value of wetlands to waterfowl and society. The scientific work helps guide various conservation programs such as habitat retention, wetland restoration, government and industry relations, landowner relations, upland restoration, habitat asset management and native plant solutions.
Park Advisory Committee for Bruce Peninsula and Fathom Five was a plan drawn up in 1008 between the Secretary of State Parks and the Minister of Canadian Heritage to coil ate a management plan to protect the natural and cultural heritage of the Bruce Peninsula as it was recognized as a significant geological area. The management plan provides directive to the activities of Parks Canada.
Bruce Peninsula Bird Observatory strives to build local capacity by providing support for research, monitoring, education and information exchange related to local issues. Their goal is to promote and foster the study, appreciation and conservation of birds and their habitats on the Bruce Peninsula while actively monitoring, research and education projects.
Bird Studies Canada mandates to advance the understanding, appreciation and conservation of birds and their habitats. The organization is comprised of volunteer citizen scientists who collect data in their local regions that help the organization conduct research used to identify significant population changes and help conservation.
Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) is the oldest and largest nonprofit, nongovernment fish and wildlife conservation organization in Canada. OFAH represents more than 100,000 members, subscribers and supporters on issues of importance to anglers, hunters and conservationists and has numerous projects and events that reflects hunting, fishing and conservation.
Sydenham Sportsmen Association (SSA) is an affiliate with the Ontario Federation of Angler and Hunters (OFAH) and by becoming a SSA member one automatically becomes a member of OFAH which includes $2,000,000 liability insurance for hunting. The club also provides a local venue for hunting and fishing as well as an array of approved shooting ranges. The clues is also involved in a number of different species monitoring and conservation initiatives.
Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Spaces System Council is a group located in the Blue Mountains responsible for managing public land on the Niagara Escarpment. The council works closely with the Ministry of Natural Resources who connects the council to MNR branches, field offices, and stakeholders to provide direction on planning issues and natural feature protection and management.The main functions of the council are to provide effective leadership for coordinated management and stewardship and to protect natural and cultural heritage features.
Bluewater Outdoor Education Center offers high quality, curriculum driven, outdoor and environmental education experiences for the students of the Bluewater District School Board in order to grow students' understanding of the value of our connection to nature. Some of the subject matter includes: healthy and active living, historical perspectives, admirable character, nature literacy and outdoor skills development, and an interest in sustainable solutions to our environmental challenges.
Grey-Bruce Trail Network plans, advocates, educates, promotes and partners in the development of a comprehensive regional trail system in Bruce County, providing a variety of trail building, trail use and trail event resources to trail organizations, individuals and municipalities within the County. Trails include: ATV's, canoeing, cross country skiing, dogsledding, equestrian riding, hiking, mountain biking, rail, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, running, geocaching and wheelchair accessible trails.
Explore The Bruce is the official travel site of the Bruce County which focus' on outdoor recreation. Home of the famous Adventure Passport, Explore the Bruce supports local and sustainable travel.
Bruce Grey Simcoe is a travel site for Bruce, Grey and Simcoe Counties. Their website features a variety of attractions, local events, shopping, local dinning options and information centers all with a 'local' focus. Their interactive map helps people find local venues faster.
Bruce Peninsula Tourists Association promotes local and professional trades and services within the Bruce Peninsula. The group is dedicated to promoting the Peninsula to tourists and does so in a sustainable manner by advocating for proper usages of our outdoor marvels. The website lists a directory of local businesses and a calendar of local events.
County of Grey – Colour it Your Way is a local homage for Grey county. It lists employment opportunities, economic development plans, housing, social services, tourism venues, transportation services, long-term care facilities, museum and archive centres, road conditions, emergency services, maps and gis of the local geography, and legal services. It is also a great resource for getting into touch with the Grey County Chambers of Commerce or Central Bruce Chambers of Commerce.
Tobermory Tourism is a website comprised of the different venues that would appeal to tourists to the area. The main focus is on the natural landscapes, however, local businesses are also a valued point of interest.
Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority delivers services and programs that protect and manage water and other natural resources in partnership with government, landowners and other organizations. SVCA promotes an integrated watershed approach balancing human, environmental and economic needs. Conservation Authorities are organized on a watershed basis.
Coastal Conservation Network Coastal Conservation Network is organized to protect coastal communities and conserve our natural and scenic seashores for clean water, coastal habitat and safe recreation. "We work for sensible strengthening of coastal protections for our communities and for our livelihoods."
Lake Huron Centre for Coastal Conservation was founded in 1998 with the goals of protecting and restoring Lake Huron's coastal environment and promoting a healthy coastal ecosystem. While many environmental advocacy groups address local issues within the region, the Coastal Centre is the only grassroots organization focused on protecting the coastal environment lake-wide.
Pine River Watershed Initiative Network (PRWIN) is a local organization to the Huron-Kinloss region and is made pup citizens concerned with the quality of "clean water and a healthy ecosystem within the Pine River Watershed." The organization is a registered charity and collaborates with Saugeen Valle Conservation Authority. PRWIN has a number of different ongoing conservation projects including: tree planting, exclusion fencing, stream crossings, alternative water sources, nitrate filters, wetland development, berms, McLarty environmental study area, education, community awards and public signs.
Grey-Sauble Conservation Authority oversees and manages the 5 major watersheds within in its region: Sauble River, Pottawatomi River, Sydenham River, Bighead River and Beaver River as well as numerous smaller watersheds. The area covers 8 municipalities: Arran-Elderslie, Township of Chatsworth, Township of Georgian Bluffs, Municipality of Meaford, Municipality of Grey Highlands, City of Owen Sound, Town of South Bruce Peninsula, and The Blue Mountains. GSCA has many programs and services including: GIS mapping, planning and regulations, forestry services, water management and community relations.
Friends of Oliphant Coastal Environment is a volunteer based nonprofit group that works to ensure the coastal environments of the Oliphant region are sustainable and preserved.
Rankin Resource Group is a collection of organizations and interest groups that are dedicated to preserving the natural wetland complex that includes 21,000 acres of upland forest, meadow, pasture, lowland forest, swamp, marsh and farmland surrounding the Rankin River and Sky, Isaac, Berford, Mud and Boat Lakes in the Town of South Bruce Peninsula. Volunteers make up a team of representatives that support environmental projects and work with government organizations and interested private land owners to make the best land use decisions possible that will protect, preserve and enhance this valuable ecosystem.
Great Lakes Information Network (GLIN) is an information site for conservation programs associated with the Great Lakes. The group focuses on water and the environment, economy, education, tourism and mapping. The group provides current research, legislative, photos, local updates, newsletters and more.
Work Resources
Work Green connects employment seekers with employers in the field of "green jobs" in the hopes to create a better sustainable future for employers and the environment.
Local Work is an online source for finding jobs in your local area. Increasingly we are driven out of our local area to work and this resource hope to attract employers to local residents in well-matched positions and vice-versa.
Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food (OMAFRA)manages the agricultural food business from animal health and welfare to ensuring food safety and setting provincial food regulations. OMAFRA funds food programs, promotes Ontario grown food and assists with food education and awareness in schools.
Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) is a farmer led organization based in Guelph and represents more than 37,000 farm families across Ontario. The OFA advocates for Ontario farmers, "championing their interests through government relations, lobby efforts, community representation, media relations" and more. Their mission is to enable prosperous and sustainable farms and farming practices.
Bruce County Federation of Agriculture (BCFA) is a sub-organization of the OFA and represents the local voice of over 1455 Bruce County farm families who are OFA members. "We work with our 52 County Federations across Ontario, all levels of government, commodity and rural groups to meet the needs of our 38,000 members province-wide." The BCFA objectives include:promoting and supporting initiatives which benefit the agricultural industry and the community of Bruce County, to maintain an affiliation with the OFA, and to c-ooperate with organizations throughout Ontario in furthering the interests of farmers, to support and encourage co-operation between and within adult and youth educational organizations, to encourage and support co-operative development and enterprises in Bruce County
to encourage and build understanding between rural and urban people.
Practical Farmers of Ontario is a group of Ontario farmers and friends of farmers who "protect, promote and provide a voice for Ontario Family Farms and for consumers who wish to support family farms." Some of the objectives of this group are: providing a forum where farmers can analyze the status quo, identify and develop structural improvements in legislation, research, take action and advocate for structural improvements.
Grey Bruce Center for Agroecology aims to develop resilient and fair food systems by fostering bottom-up research, education, extension and policy development for agriculture, food storage and processing, distribution and marketing. It is made up of a group of rural farmers and professionals, combining practical farming experience with professional and academic experiences in Canada. By collaborating, members are better equipt to contribute unique skills, experiences and talents to furthering agroecology and the development of fair and resilient food systems in Canada.
We Farm Grey Bruce is about connecting local people to local farms. The overall goal is contribute to the establishment of a locally-based food system. The founder, Jennifer Pittet, aims to raise awareness about the value of locally produced food and to promote environmentally friendly land management and humane livestock practices.
Farmers Markets in Grey and Bruce Counties is an online database comprised of a list accompanied with a geographical map of all the farmers markets and their contact information in Grey and Bruce counties.
Cedar Down Farm promotes local healthy eating through community-supported agriculture (CSA) in the town of Hanover. They supply a CSA program that delivers organically grown produce year-round throughout Guelph, Paisley and Hanover. Their website is also a good source for healthy eating recipes.
Grow Me Instead is a group that has partnered with larger Ontario based non-profit groups to spread the awareness of invasive plant species in Southern Ontario. They provide landscapers and gardeners with knowledge of the harm of these invasive plants while providing non-invasive alternatives to them.
Foodlink is a website designed to promote sustainable food habits in Grey and Bruce. Their interactive map and search engine provides listings all of all types of local, healthy and sustainable food practices searchable by region. The website also has current food related news and events.
The Rural Gardener (organic produce) is a small family farm that operates in the Walkerton and Paisley region. Their gardens provide CSA boxes to members in the local community.
Alverstoke Farm (organic meat) began with the notion of providing sustainable food to the Burke family. It has since expanded to a small commercial farm that raises free-range pigs and sheep using organic and ethical farming practices. The farm also has a vegetable patch providing pesticide free produce.
Persephone Market Garden is a small farm that grows vegetables using sustainable farming methods such as organic composting, intensive crop rotation, relay cropping and intercropping. Persephone uses all non-GMO seeds and offers seed sales, resources and garden oriented farm tours for those interested in creating their own sustainable vegetable garden.
Fiddlehead Nursery is a permaculture plant nursery located in the Beaver Valley, near Collingwood. They specialize in edible, perennial plants with an emphasis on cold-hardy, disease-resistant varieties, and on plants that serve multiple purposes in the landscape. "We strive to provide the best plants for fruitful, low-maintenance gardens. We focus on the understory and carry many excellent perennial vegetables and salad greens, berry bushes and vines, as well as a few hard-to-find useful trees." The nursery also provides landscaping tips and workshops.
Ontario Land Trust Alliance (OLTA) is a registered charity that strengthens land conservation in Ontario by building and supporting a strong land trust movement by "building skills and abilities through educational and training programs, connecting land trusts to resources, each other and to local communities, supporting direct conservation action through funding and partnership programs and engaging the public through outreach activities and acting as a voice for the land trust movement among the public, governments and other stakeholders." OLTA aims to expand the pace of land conservation, build strong community-based land trusts, provide financial grants to member groups to aid them with land securement and capacity building projects, develop and work with member groups to implement a set of standards and practices regarding land trust activities to ensure the continued confidence of funders, donors and regulatory bodies.
Friends of the Greenbelt Foundation is an environmental organization with a farming focus that is for fresh air, clean water, healthy local food, and a thriving economy. With 2 million acres of permanently protected land this is the world's largest greenbelt, keeping our farmlands, forests, wetlands safe and sustainable. The Friends of the Greenbelt Foundation works to help keep farmers successful, strengthen local economies, and protect and grow natural features. They conduct research on said topics and well as provide grant opportunities.
Bruce Trail Conservancy is part of the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and one of Ontario's largest land trusts preserving over 8,000 acres of irreplaceable Niagara Escarpment landscape. The charitable organization is volunteer based and responsible for maintaining, stewarding and promoting sections of the Bruce Trail.
Peninsula Bruce Trail Club is a charitable volunteer based organization and one of the nine Bruce Trail Clubs that support the mandate of the Bruce Trail Conservancy (BTC). The club is committed to establishing a conservation corridor to protect the natural ecosystems of the Bruce Trail. The Bruce Trail, Canada's oldest and longest footpath and provides the only continuous public access to the Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
Sydenham Bruce Trail Club is a charitable volunteer based organization and one of the nine Bruce Trail Clubs that support the mandate of the Bruce Trail Conservancy (BTC). The club works to continue to preserve and protect the Niagara Escarpment, and provide public access via the Bruce Trail. Members of the SBTC build the Bruce Trail along an established optimum route from Blantyre to Wiarton, Ontario, Canada.
Beaver Valley Bruce Trail Club is a charitable volunteer based organization and one of the nine Bruce Trail Clubs that support the mandate of the Bruce Trail Conservancy (BTC). The Beaver Valley section of the Bruce Trail extends from Craigleith to Blantyre covering, 113.1 km of main trail plus an additional 25 km of side trails. The club works to continue to preserve and protect the Niagara Escarpment, and provide public access via the Bruce Trail.
Blue Mountains Bruce Trail Club is a charitable volunteer based organization and one of the nine Bruce Trail Clubs that support the mandate of the Bruce Trail Conservancy (BTC). This section of the Bruce Trail runs from Lavender to Craigleith. Here the trail terrain changes abruptly set among high bluffs interspersed with deep wide valleys.The club works to continue to preserve and protect the Niagara Escarpment, and provide public access via the Bruce Trail.
Alternative Land Use Services (ALUS) Grey- Bruce functions on the belief that private landowners can make the biggest changes toward land conservation. The community-based organization strives to create healthy landscapes that sustain agriculture, wildlife and natural spaces with special attention paid to farmers and their practices.
Bruce County Woodlot Association is a group of people and organizations interested in improving the ecological quality, health and value of woodlots in Bruce County for this and future generations. The association holds annual meetings and conferences expanding on flora and fauna of the Grey-Bruce area and on the integration between woodlots and water assist in community awareness and education on the topic.
Bruce Area Solid Waste and Recycling Association is a recycling organization that operates in some townships Grey and Bruce counties, often contracted out by municipalities, to pick up curb side and depot recycling and transport it to recycling facilities. The organization educates on recyclable materials and on rare occasions will also pick up garbage.
Miller Waste is part of a larger organization called The Miller Group. They are a "strong leader in the processing and waste diversion effort in order to minimize wastes headed to landfill." Miller Waste picks up both curb side garbage and recycling. Through their composting program and material recovery facilities (cell phones and other e-waste) they help municipalities and commercial customers divert as much as 80% from landfills a year.
Waste Management Inc. manages curb side waste, recycling and yard compost pickup. Waste Management also offers medical and e-waste recycle by mail. "We are contributing to a more sustainable world by: advancing technologies to reduce waste, increasing recycling and reuse, creating even safer treatment and disposal options, developing sources of renewable energy, sharing the benefits of our learning and innovation with our clients and collaborators."
Brockton Environmental Advisory Committee is a part of the Brockton municipality that focus' on waste management. They have led the way in setting up community recycling and waste diversion programs to save landfill space.
Sustainable Economic Development
Local Motive Project is Shane Jolley's site all about local economic development and creating "Transition Town" (towns striving toward living sustainability using alternative ways of thinking to achieve progress) sites from Grey Bruce.
Niagara Escarpment Commission oversees land-use policies, sustainable development, dark sky preservation. Mandate: An agency of Ontario's Ministry of Natural Resources, the Niagara Escarpment Commission (NEC) works on behalf of the people of Ontario to preserve the Niagara Escarpment as a continuous natural landscape – a vital corridor of green space through south-central Ontario.
Transition Peninsula is a group of individuals that wish to charter a lifestyle toward sustainability with less of a reliance on oil. Their website serves as a gathering spot for ideas, announcements and resources for those interested in building a resilience on the Northern Bruce Peninsula. Their focus is on keeping things small, simple and good for the planet. Transition Peninsula works closely with Sources of Knowledge.
Coalition on the Niagara Escarpment (CONE) is a planning group that helps to identify sensitive areas and plan around environmental issues to avoid damaging endangered species of plants and animals living on the Niagara Escarpment. Their main focus areas are: Aboriginal Peoples, wind turbines, aggregates and water.
Grey Association for Better Planning (GABP) is based in Markdale around the vision that Grey County values its land-use planning principles, policies and practices that sustain its natural environment, cultural landscape and economic well-being. GABP's mission is to promote awareness and public engagement in land-use planning and development issues. GABP hosts many annual events including: climate action day, world town planning day. One of the main focus areas of GABP surrounds wetlands protection with particular interest in the Souldice Wetlands. Partnering with MOE and CONE, GABP is currently working with a team of volunteers to protect the area.
Saugeen Trading Community is a regionally-based monetary system that endeavours to meet economic and social needs of the local community by providing a vehicle for the exchange of labour and goods. "We promote self-reliance, community, responsibility, local autonomy and ecological sustainability. In 1993, we decided to create an alternative economy, including our own currency called Saugeen Bucks (or saubucks). Each saubuck is considered to have the same value as a Canadian dollar, but no bills or notes are issued. Instead, an STC member transfers saubucks from her or his account as payment for goods and services received from another member." Some of the goods and services which are available to Saugeen Trading Community members are: photography, local meat, custom spinning, hand letterpress printing, highland bagpiping for your special occasion, piano lessons, business consulting, promotional writing, shiitake mushrooms, plumbing, carpentry, garlic, reflexology/massage therapy, machinery repair, permaculture designs, bicycle repair, canoe rentals, rides to Toronto and handyman services.
Saugeen Economic Development Corporation based in Neustadt, ON promotes sustainable economic development in partnership for the community's future. As part of their mandate they believe in "positive staff and board development / relations / mutual respect, the diversity of our Board of Directors, effective communication, recognizing excellence, exemplary service, identifying needs and developing programs to support the communities of our region and the creation and maintenance of job opportunities." This group is a part of the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario.
Bruce Community Futures Corporation (CFDC) is a community based not for profit corporation, committed to small business and community economic development. Affiliated through Industry Canada's – Community Futures Program this independent corporation embraces initiatives and activities in support of economic diversification and community prosperity. CFDC is dedicated to the health and prosperity of the area. Under agreement with the federal government, the mandate of the Bruce CFDC is to "help develop and diversify the local economy through access to capital for small and medium sized businesses and social enterprises, business information and planning services, community strategic planning and support for community based projects."
Four County Labour Market Planning Board serves Bruce, Grey, Huron and Perth and plans and promotes local labour market strategies to meet the challenges of changing economy. Their website lists local resources and events and is improving awareness of career opportunities throughout the board's region with its' "Skill Opportunities" mobile showcase. The board provides reliable research, identifies employment trends, targets workforce opportunities, promotes skills development and, raises public awareness of workforce issues by working collaboratively with business, workforce and community organizations in Bruce, Grey, Huron and Perth. Additionally the board plans and initiates projects and programs that address the specific needs of workforce development in each county.
Bluewater Trading Community is a regionally-based local exchange and trading system (LETS) that promotes sustainability and endeavours "to meet economic and social needs of the local community by providing a vehicle for exchange of goods and services. The BTC believes in right livelihood and a spirit of cooperation, celebrating the diversity and abundance of skills and resources its members have to offer each other." Becoming a member enables one to browse and post current offers and wants.
350.org is building a global climate movement. Our online campaigns, grassroots organizing, and mass public actions are coordinated by a global network active in over 188 countries. Check out Grey Bruce Owen Sound group on facebook.
Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) is funded by the government of Canada and is the primary catalyst in building the country's sustainable development technology infrastructure. SDTC finances and supports the development and demonstration of clean technologies which provide solutions to issues of climate change, clean air, water quality and soil, and which deliver economic, environmental and health benefits to Canadians.
Industrial Research Assistance Program provides innovation and funding services to assist with specific business needs in order to help grow businesses in Canada. This is achieved through advisory services, funding, networking linkages and a youth employment program.
Ontario Trillium Foundation is an organization that is a branch of the provincial government dedicated to providing funding opportunities to leaders in the public sector that are working to benefit communities in Ontario to be healthier and more vibrant.
Enbridge has become a leader in the safe and reliable delivery of energy and is recognized as one of the Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World. Enbridge generates and distributes energy and have expanding interests in renewable and green energy technologies including wind and solar energy and geothermal. "We also recognize that our relationship with hydrocarbons comes with great responsibility. It's a responsibility that Enbridge takes seriously. It involves ongoing consultation, collaboration, research, and initiative." Since 2002, Enbridge has invested $4-billion in renewable and alternative energy technologies and projects, including: 12 wind farms (1,662 MW capacity); Four solar energy operations (150 MW capacity); A geothermal project (22 MW capacity); Waste heat recovery technologies, which recover exhaust heat from compressor stations and convert it into clean electricity. Enbridge has also committed to stabilizing our environmental footprint at January 2009 levels. To assist in achieving this goal Enbridge budgets community investments and sponsorship opportunities guided by a core set of criteria.
Community and Networks
Bruce Grey Environment provides listings of environmental organizations around Grey Bruce.
Community Foundation Grey Bruce oversees sustainable leadership, community involvement of environmental issues. Mandate: Community Foundation Grey Bruce, under the umbrella of Community Foundations of Canada, administers Funds in the Counties of Grey and Bruce in Ontario. Community Foundation Grey Bruce has three purposes: to encourage endowment building and facilitate philanthropic partnership within all communities in Grey and Bruce Counties, now and for future generations; to grant to a wide variety of nonprofit organizations in Grey & Bruce; and to provide leadership in identifying community issues and convening discussion. Local environmental issues are of great importance to the Foundation.
Bruce Grey United Way helps individuals meet their needs with assistance. Bruce Grey United Way is funded in part by Bruce Power and is backed by an array of volunteers.
Grey and Bruce County Social Services Agencies plans and manages the local child care system, focusing on the integration of government initiatives, inter-agency coordination, and the development of new programs and services including: Childcare Subsidy, Preschool Resource Program, and Ontario Early Years centres.
Grey-Bruce Health Unit in addition to the obvious functions the Grey Bruce Health Unit also monitors local water quality to ensure swimming safety as well as provides water education. You can learn how to test your water at home and pros and cons of fluoride present in drinking water.
Rural Buzz is a website dedicated to rural events related to small and large communities. It is a great source for local businesses. The website provides interactive maps and listings and free event listings.
Bruce Resource Stewardship Network aims to encourage action that helps people value, look after and improve that land and resources of Bruce county.
Peace and Justice Grey Bruce aims at keeping local people interested in local peace and justice issues informed. The group in addition to a monthly meeting offers an email list serve detailing of meetings and events that focus on peace and justice issues including (but not limited to): gay rights, poverty, climate, democracy, civil law, war and first nations. The group hosts regular movie showings and discussions related to peace, justice themes that often correlate with sustainability such as: local food, monsanto, bees, war and first nations.
211 is a three-digit phone similar to 411 and 911. Three-digit phone numbers have been assigned in Canada for services that are of broad public interest and of universal social value. 211 helps people find services in their local communities. In Canada, 211 offers a live answer service 24/7. The number is free to call and interpreters are available in more than 170 languages. TTY service is available at 1-888-435-6086. In Ontario, 211 is funded by the Ontario Ministry of Community, Social Services, many municipalities and United Ways.
Cultural and Historical
Grey Roots Museum oversees green initiatives, energy conservation, interpretive programs and conducts and promotes research. Mandate: Inspired by Earth Day, Earth Hour and Energy Conservation Week, we plan to introduce a new green initiative each month, or to highlight something that we are doing which is already green. The intended result will be that we continue to think of how we can do things more efficiently and responsibly in a way that we can incorporate into our day-to-day routines.
Grey Bruce Cultural Network (GBCN) is a new, developing regional arts-and-culture service organization in Grey Bruce, organized by regional artists and arts-and-culture professionals. Its purpose is to encourage and support people, projects and enterprises throughout the region, with a heavy emphasis on the technical, marketing, business and community development aspects of the sector.
Ojibwe Cultural Foundation (OCF) strives to be the identity center of the Anishnaabe people and remains committed to the revitalization and growth of the language, culture, arts, spirituality and traditions of the Anishnaabe People of the First Nations of the Robinson Huron Treaty area. We dedicate ourselves to the expression of Anishnaabe culture in all forms, so our art, language, stories, songs and teachings flourish now and remain strong for generations to come.
Bruce Peninsula National Park (Visitor Center) The park offers opportunities for many outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and bird watching while promoting sustainability. In 2006, a new visitors' centre opened to serve Fathom Five National Marine Park and the Bruce Peninsula National Park. A 20 metre viewing tower was also constructed to provide visitors with aerial views of the surrounding park and Georgian Bay. The centre was designed with environmental sustainability in mind. receiving $224,000 from the Federal House in Order initiative for implementation of innovative greenhouse gas reduction technology.
St. Edmunds Township (Tobermory) Museum is a heritage site managed by the Northern Bruce Peninsula History Committee and showcases fishing, hunting and lumbering back in the 1800's.
Sources of Knowledge is a registered charity that was formulated originally to demonstrate how research in the Bruce Peninsula National Park and Fathom Five Marine Park contributes to knowledge of the Peninsula's natural and human history. It provides students, educators, researchers, citizens, business operators and policy makers with access to networks and information and ideas through local knowledge. This organization is a great resource for knowledge on Canada's natural and cultural heritage and serves as valuable sites for research and learning on conservation and sustainable development.
Queens Bush Bluegrass Club is a group of people that get together every week for a bluegrass jam. Based in Owen Sound members are invited to come play and are offered discount concert tickets as well as a monthly newsletter. The origin of the club is based on the 1836 treaty that gave the Ojibway the Bruce Peninsula as a reserve but pushed them out of a huge tract of land. These former hunting grounds were designated crown land entitled "Queens Bush" due to the vast amounts of forest cover.
Bruce County Public Libraries is a listing of all the libraries in Bruce County. Each library has its own corresponding webpage which list library events which often include many regional sustainable projects and organizations.
Grey County Libraries and Museums is a listing of all the libraries and museums in Grey County. Each listing has its own corresponding webpage which list current local events which often include many regional sustainable projects and organizations.
Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre promotes the in depth diversity of our local heritage. The museum features a collection of significant artifacts, galleries, historical photos, community events and an archive center that is open to public research.
Municipalities of Grey Bruce
Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula has a number of different sustainable initiatives including the Dark Sky Project, improving Waste Management practices and the Peninsula Conservation and Stewardship plan. Achieving sustainable economic development is an integral part to this municipality.
Township of Southern Bruce Peninsula has a number of different sustainable initiatives including the Sauble Beach Wastewater Treatment, Sauble Beach Water Quality and the Local Food Project that encourages eating local healthy food (elk, bison, lamb, beef, fish, pheasant to name a few)
County of Bruce oversees eight municipalities and has several ongoing environmental projects all entitled "Spruce the Bruce" they also are striving for best waste management practices to best serve the region. Bruce County also has a Resource Management sector that strives towards sustainability by maintaing County Forests and through their county weed program which assists residents in identifiying invasive plants, invasive plant removal and the planting native species.
Provincial and Federal groups
Environment Canada (EC) works to protecting the environment, conserving the country's natural heritage, and providing weather and meteorological information to keep Canadians informed and safe. Their mandate is to "preserve and enhance the quality of the natural environment, including water, air, soil, flora and fauna; conserve Canada's renewable resources; conserve and protect Canada's water resources; forecast daily weather conditions and warnings, and provide detailed meteorological information to all of Canada; enforce rules relating to boundary waters; and coordinate environmental policies and programs for the federal government." EC has its own science and research department which conducts research in the following areas (but not limited to): climate change, weather and meteorology, air quality, water and nature. EC has a number of different environmental promotion activities and workshops on the topic of safeguarding Canada's environment.
Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources is a branch of the provincial government that manages a number of different areas of the province including: species at risk, fishing, forest fires and flooding, forestry, hunting, maps science and research and wildlife and nature. The government provides grants for local projects and assists with sustainable environmental work at the local level.
Ontario Ministry of the Environment oversees a number of different provincial environmental related issues including: air quality, climate change, drinking water, driving clean, environmental assessments and standards, environmental approvals, environmental mapping, Great Lakes protection and showcasing water innovation.
Ontario Parks manages all provincial parks and has a number of different environmental conservation initiatives including: reptilian road protection, science and research, green energy and hunting and fishing regulations.
Ontario Nature protects wild species and wild spaces through conservation, education and public engagement. The main goals are to protect endangered species, connect people with nature, advocate to create policies that protect natural areas and educate opportunities for youth. Ontario Nature offers opportunities to volunteer all over the province as well as opportunities to become a member of the organization.
Fisheries and Oceans Canada is the lead federal government department responsible for developing and implementing policies and programs in support of Canada's economic, ecological and scientific interests in oceans and inland waters. This mandate includes responsibility for conservation and sustainable use of Canada's fisheries resources while continuing to provide safe, effective and environmentally sound marine services that are responsive to the needs of Canadians in a global economy.
Canadian Coast Guard is a special operating agency within the federal organization Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and is responsible for programs that contribute to the safety, security and accessibility of Canada's waterways. They conduct studies on waterways, species and ecosystems, create acts and regulations as well as oversee corporate plans and reports.
Geological Survey of Canada is a branch of Natural Resources Canada. This organization studies Earth materials and considers the physical forces, the chemistry of materials including rocks, minerals, soils and water, and the biology of its past inhabitants through fossils. The knowledge gained aids in the discovery of energy and mineral resources in the Earth's crust, to identify geologically stable sites for major structures/development, and to inform society concerning the hazards.
Canadian Wildlife Federation spreads the word about wildlife by producing all kinds of materials, to promote wildlife conservation. In addition to providing funding opportunities to students, researchers and schools the federation runs a Backyard Habitat Certification program and WILD Education workshops.
Canadian Wildlife Services is a branch of Environment Canada that is specifically geared towards protect Canada's wildlife. Migratory birds, their nests and eggs are of particularly concern to the group as they are often victims of habitat and food source loss. Canadian Wildlife Services takes into account Canadian wildlife issues and concerns and passes appropriate legislations and regulations that surround protection for wildlife.
Grey Bruce Weather is operated by the Government of Canada and advises the Grey and Bruce regions of any threats of natural disasters such as severe storms and flooding. It advises of best practices in given situations. Owen Sound Sun Times is a great resourceful newspaper filled with local events, businesses and current news items.
Owen Sound Sun Times is a great resourceful newspaper filled with local events, businesses and current news items.
Bruce Peninsula Press is the local newspaper for the Bruce Peninsula. The news tends to focus on local events, environmental awareness and programs, active local clubs, and education (Bruce Peninsula District School) related news.
Walkerton Herald-Times focuses on local news in south grey and is a great local resource for food and events. The newspaper also encourages readers to submit local events and stories which is made easy to do so on their website.
The Flesherton is an online news source based in Flesherton, Ontario that is dedicated to all community news ranging from health, to art and culture, to trails and outdoor activities, to business. The Flesherton produces a number of different blogs and has many different contributors. The main focus of the site is sustainability and sustainable practices. The Flesherton promotes local events and produces a weekly newsletter to keep subscribers informed and connected to the Flesherton community.
Saugeen Times is a locally managed news source that encourages readers to contribute to community issues by writing editorials. In addition to this, local and regional current events, news items and weather are updated daily. The website also provides links to other relevant local news sources such as the Kincardine Times, Walkerton News, CCNews and Grey-Wellington Times.
Owen Sound Hub is an online magazine that focuses on all thing that take place in Owen Sound. The magazine highlights news headlines, weather, traffic, tourism, council and administration news and much more.
Grown in Grey is a annual agricultural event based on education. The objective of Grown in Grey is to further educate children, specifically those in grades four and five, about what is happening in agriculture and related industries in our region. Grown in Grey is run by a group of core volunteers and is a not for profit organization. This event is made possible by the co-operation of a large number of organizations, commodity groups, farmers, educators and individuals interested in the many facets of agriculture.
Roots of Bruce is an annual event/project that has been running for more than 21 years aimed at raising awareness of the importance of our agricultural community, food production and supporting industries in Bruce County. The target attendees for the program are grades five and six students and teachers. "Our objective is to develop…an understanding and an appreciation for the production and marketing of food and the sustainable practices to manage our natural resources" that will contribute to the total well-being and long term health of the community. The event takes place in April in various locations around Bruce County and is supported by Bluewater District School Board and Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board.
Grey Bruce Children's Water Festival is an annual event held in Chesley in September that is dedicated to the educating youth about water conservation and protection of the natural environment in order to become better stewards in class, at home and in the community. Through sponsors, activity centres and volunteer spokespersons, youth learn of water sources, conservation practices and the role that water plays in the environment.
Bruce Power is a utility company that offers both electric generated power as well as nuclear and has a high focus on sustainability. Bruce Power has an entire department dedicated to the environment and sustainability and a sustainability report which dictates advances in generating carbon-free energy is published annually. Bruce Power also funds a number of different local not-for-profit organization and their respective environmental programs to assist in greening local communities.
Ontario Power Generation an energy supply company that has made an effort to partner with environmental groups and plant over 6 million trees in Ontario. As OPG strives to become an environmentally responsible company, management plans have been developed to reach explicit objectives linked to regional biodiversity conservation priorities.
Westario Power Inc. Westario Power is an energy distribution corporation committed to providing high efficiency product and services in a safe, reliable, cost effective manner. Westario has a number of different energy conservation programs, fridge and freezer pick up programs, online energy saving coupons, as well as a number of different online resources for energy efficient heating and cooling, new home construction and much more.
Solar Flash is a solar power energy corporation based in Walkerton, Ontario
Carlsun Energy Solutions Inc. began as a project management company in the wind power sector. Since then, Carlsun has grown into a construction management, technical supervision and general contracting company committed to providing professional services to the renewable energy sector. Carlsun is committed to the environment and is continually implementing measures to reduce the carbon footprint of their operation such as implementing hybrid electric vehicles and purchasing renewable electricity.
Enbridge, an energy and natural gas company, recognizes that the relationship with hydrocarbons comes with great responsibility. Therefore, the company implores ongoing consultation, collaboration, research, and initiative. Enbridge focuses on long term green energy practices and as such they support renewable energy sources. Enbridge invested in a wind farm in 2002 and since, nearly $4-billion in renewable and alternative energy technologies and projects, including: Our 12 wind farms (1,662 MW capacity); Four solar energy operations (150 MW capacity); A geothermal project (22 MW capacity); and waste heat recovery technologies (which recover exhaust heat from compressor stations and convert it into clean electricity).
Hydro One, a utility company, prides itself on making environmentally and socially responsible choices. Hydro one has attained designation of being a sustainable energy company by their ability to: managing environmental impacts; delivering social and society benefits; and achieving strong economic performance. Hydro one has an environmental policy that they follow which includes designing, building and operating facilities to make efficient use of resources and to prevent pollution, as well as managing environmental impacts and striving for continual improvement of their environmental management.
Out of Area Resources
Invasive Species Centre, based in Sault St. Marie, ON, this non-profit organization builds partnerships and supports collaborative projects in natural and applied science, policy research, outreach and education to protect Canada's forests, fields, gardens, waterways and cities from the damaging effects of invasive species. The centre addresses national priority invasive species issues. The main core values of the organization are "Sustainability – helping natural resources last for future generations; Collaboration – drawing on all stakeholders to achieve success; Credibility – using a consistent, evidence-based approach; Professionalism – maintaining dedication to excellence in management and delivery; and Efficiency – breaking down organizational silos and reducing overlap".