Eastern Ontario Conservation Authority is set to expand grasslands
-
Loading... - william harrison
- 04 Oct 2024
- 46 Views
- 0 Like
- 0 Comment
An Eastern Ontario conservation authority is working to restore endangered grasslands by collaborating with local landowners and farmers. The Raisin Region Conservation Authority (RRCA) launched a grant initiative this summer aimed at covering up to 100 percent of the costs for projects that expand grasslands within its jurisdiction, which includes Cornwall and parts of North and South Stormont, as well as North and South Glengarry. While the official deadline for the grant passed in September, the RRCA is still open to receiving expressions of interest throughout the year.
Grasslands, especially tall ones, are among Ontario's most endangered ecosystems. Brendan Jacobs, stewardship specialist at RRCA, highlighted the critical role these ecosystems play. Grasslands provide essential habitats for a variety of species while also contributing to climate change mitigation.
Jacobs further explained that grasslands are particularly effective in preventing soil erosion, especially in regions where trees struggle to grow, such as riverbanks. Beyond erosion control, these ecosystems act as natural filters for water and air, improving overall environmental health. "They help bind the soil, drawing nutrients deep into the ground and making them available for other vegetation, which helps stabilize the ecosystem," Jacobs said.
This ongoing effort underscores the RRCA's commitment to preserving and expanding Ontario's threatened grassland ecosystems.
