| Photo submitted
World Wetlands Day is coming on Monday, February 2, 2026, and the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) is encouraging residents to “Get Rooted, Grow Native Plants.”
Angela Van Niekerk, ABCA Wetlands Specialist, says wetlands are very important. They provide many benefits to people, as well as to water quality and water supply. Since 2008, ABCA has helped more than 130 landowners create 174 wetlands in the region.
Most of these wetland projects have been completed at little or no cost to landowners, thanks to funding from groups such as Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Environment and Climate Change Canada, the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, Huron County Clean Water Project, Ducks Unlimited Canada, and ALUS Middlesex.
Landowners who think a wetland could improve their property can contact ABCA for a site visit and information on financial support.
Residents who want to support native plant growth in the community can donate through ABCA’s website or get involved through volunteer opportunities.
The theme for World Wetlands Day 2026 is “Wetlands and traditional knowledge: Celebrating cultural heritage.” This year highlights the connection between wetlands and cultural traditions, practices, and knowledge worldwide. More information is available at WorldWetlandsDay.org.
This World Wetlands Day, ABCA is inviting the community to learn, plant, and protect native plants to help wetlands thrive.