Success at MOPP 2018

MOPP 2018 Group photo

MOPP 2018 Group photo

On May 5th, 2018, the Aylmer District Trapper's Council (ADTC) in conjunction with Gurr Auto of St. Thomas, the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH Zone J), and Kettle Creek Conservation Authority (KCCA) of Elgin County, commenced in a planting partnership with a goal of planting one-thousand trees on a KCCA property north of St. Thomas, Ontario.

The event was attended by approximately seventy-five people with forty of those being youth. With a modest goal of planting one-thousand trees, the primary intention of the event was to expose those youth to a positive experience participating in a stewardship activity while also giving conservation-minded adults an opportunity to contribute to the natural spaces within Elgin County.

Shaun Meehan (ADTC VP) speaking during the opening of MOPP 2018

Shaun Meehan (ADTC VP) speaking during the opening of MOPP 2018

With participants from the ADTC, OFAH Zone J, the KCCA, Elgin Area Scouts Canada, and members of the public, our planting goal was quickly achieved. Upon completion, lunch was graciously provided by the OFAH Zone J team followed by ice cream from the ADTC.

The Aylmer District Trapper’s Council would like to thank all those who volunteered as well as the Kettle Creek Conservation Authority for facilitating the event and Gurr Auto for their dedication to stewardship and the provision of trees. In addition, we would like to thank the team at OFAH Zone J for lunch and the youth from the Elgin Area Scouts for their participation and their commitment to directing youth toward an appreciation for, and an active involvement in our shared natural spaces. Always dedicated to stewardship, also in attendance was Rimas Miknev, with camera in hand, capturing the event and memories for all who participated. The complete album is available on our Facebook page.

Left to right, Shaun Meehan (ADTC VP), Greg Holden (ADTC P), Dale Ouelette (ADTC Oxford Director)

Left to right, Shaun Meehan (ADTC VP), Greg Holden (ADTC P), Dale Ouelette (ADTC Oxford Director)

The Multi-Organization Planting Partnership posed many unique challenges but ultimately created a more beneficial and productive event that met its goal in producing a positive experience for our participants who, many for the first time, took on an active role within their natural environment. Looking forward, the ADTC will continue to seek out opportunities to demonstrate our commitment to conservation and stewardship within our district and beyond. This event truly was an investment in the future of conservation and stewardship

 

Shaun Meehan - Vice President, Aylmer District Trapper’s Council