By John Bacher

When the Minister of Transportation, Steven Del Duca, announced the termination of an environmental assessment for the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) West Corridor in December of 2015, those who cherish the earth in Ontario gave a great sigh of relief. The proposed 50 kilometer-long expressway planned to slash through entirely environmental and agricultural zones, much of which is protected by the Greenbelt. The plan was a salt tipped dagger on Lake Ontario.

Photo credit: https://environmentaldefence.ca/2018/01/11/whats-real-cost-building-proposed-gta-west-highway/

By Alex Walker

The SCO has long supported the protection and re-naturalization efforts within the Rouge Watershed, specifically within the Rouge National Urban Park (RNUP). The Friends of the Rouge Watershed (FRW) have been advocating for the continued protection of the Rouge, especially as it relates the RNUP Management Plan. 

Photo credit: Alex Walker

Responding to an impassioned invite from teacher George Lehto, SCO members Leslie, Francine, and Aleks visited Charles E. Webster Public School in Toronto. They met with  students from the school’s eco-club. Webster P.S. is an ecoschool, which focuses on learning through conservation, and environmentalism. The school has also worked on developing gardens and tree planting sites on their property. 

Photo credit: Francine Pauvif