(ON) Connect and Protect at Ellis Creek – Oct 18, 2025

Event Details

Continuing “Connect and Protect” series in partnership with Freshwater Conservation Canada, we are excited to host another event in Ontario. This event will take place at Ellis Creek at Chilligo Conservation Area (Cambridge) and will focus on invasive species management and Garbage clean-up. 

Ellis Creek is located on the traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee, Anishinaabe, and Chonnonton peoples, specifically within the Haldimand Tract. This land was promised to Six Nations and includes the land on both sides of the Grand River, where Cambridge is situated.  

We’re excited to be working in partnership with Freshwater Conservation Canada to bring our community outdoors and learn more about the conservation efforts and how it helps restore and rehabilitate the watershed in Ontario. On October 18th we will be hosting our second conservation activity in Ontario! Registration deadline is October 13th.

This event will explore invasive species management, focusing specifically on identifying and managing the European Buckthorn. This work is critical to preventing this species from getting hold of the area. In addition to our invasive species management we will also be cleaning up the garbage that has accumulated in the creek. 

This is an amazing opportunity to engage with Conservationists, learn about their efforts, and how to be a part of the change. If you’re interested in learning more about conservation efforts and spending a day on the field doing hands-on restorative work with the Colour the Trails community, then this event is for you!

We believe in giving back, learning, connecting, and exploring opportunities in outdoor and conservation areas. While this event entails some physical work, it is important to see what effort goes into maintaining natural areas. We have done trail and conservation work in the past, and it is fulfilling to see the positive impact of your work.

Due to limited spots, we ask our allies to please let Black, Indigenous and People of Colour register for this event first. If you have an ally family member or friend that you would like to join you and can offer carpool, please ask them to fill in the form.

Equipment:

Participants: Dress for the weather (layers and extra pair of socks recommended); wear tall boots if you have a pair, but some waders will be made available; a water bottle, and personal snacks.

Freshwater Conservation Canada typically provides vegetarian samosas and pakoras for volunteers (https://www.kirtidakitchen.com/).

Transportation: 

We will be organizing a carpool and will need folks who can drive others to join.

Community Guidlines

Inclusion Policy: 

At Colour the Trails, we are dedicated to fostering an environment that champions inclusivity, respect, and equality. We want to make it clear that we will not tolerate any form of anti-Blackness, anti-Indigenous attitudes, racism, homophobia, ableism or transphobia within our organization or community. We firmly stand against discrimination and prejudice, and we are committed to creating a safe and affirming space for individuals of all races, ethnicities, sexual orientations, abilities, and gender identities. Together, we strive to promote unity, understanding, and support for all trail enthusiasts, regardless of their background or identity. As a Black owned and Black led business, we recognize the greater prevalence of anti-Blackness and anti-Indigeneity and will always prioritize support and protection for Black and Indigenous communities.

Please refer to our community guidelines for a full description of our policies and standards for community engagement.