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| Greenlands is "a system of natural areas and open spaces for citizens' use and enjoyment and for the protection of ecological values." |
Like so many communities lying in the urban shadow of the Greater Toronto Area, the Township of Centre Wellington is experiencing the urbanizing forces of the metropolis that re-shape environments, cultures and economies. But we know that "smart growth" and environmental quality go hand in hand. Our environment — the Elora Gorge, historic Fergus, and the Grand and Irvine rivers — attract people to our community from across Canada and the United States. Wise planning that features our environment and heritage will ensure a vibrant economy and a sustainable community for generations to come.
source: Smart Growth Network
On April 18, 2008, representatives of Greenlands Centre Wellington attended the Amazing Possibilites Conference organized by the Guelph Civic League. A report was presented by Linda Golletz to the Annual General Meeting of Greenlands Centre Wellington. The report follows.
On October 24 2008, Greenlands participated along with other local organizations and merchants at CWDHS’s Eco-Expo. Students and teachers came to the Student Centre to view the exhibits in class groups and also as interested individuals.
A large up-to-date aerial air photograph of the Township of Centre Wellington attracted many students who were very interested to identify where they lived. They were then invited to view the maps of other critical environmental facets - Surface Water, Land Use and Natural Heritage. These had been compiled by Greg Wolowich, GIS and Planning Technician for the Municipal Offices, Township of Centre Wellington.
Students recognized the connections that exist between our lives today, future decisions and the future of the health and sustainability of the township.
Many students were also interested in another section of the Greenland’s display. This was an exhibit of the work of students in the Master of Landscape Architecture program at Guelph University. The university students had produced plans based on their ideas on ideal developments for certain school grounds, parks and specific areas of the urban communities within the township. Their creative efforts suggested the design for tree plantings, creative play areas, people friendly sidewalk areas and more pleasant entranceways to the communities. Many of the ideas in the students’ work have an environmental focus such as the use of permeable “pavement” on walkways which allows water to seep through rather than run off.
Many of the high school students expressed interest in the masters program being offered at the University of Guelph.
At this event we introduced and gave out our “Greenlands Bookmark” which includes basic information about our organization. The bookmark will be distributed at other events for publicity.
Greenlands Centre Wellington would like to thank the Environmental Club at CWDHS and Sarah Hennekens for her leadership in organizing this event.
