Looking for volunteer opportunities out of the classroom?

We provide students with an opportunity to learn about the newly created Rouge National Urban Park, environmental conservation, watershed protection, and ecological restoration through hands on programming. We invite classes to help us with our restoration efforts through the planting of native trees, shrubs and wildflowers. This is a great day for students to get out of the classroom and in to the field, witnessing Mother Nature at work - and getting a little muddy along the way!  This is also a great opportunity to tie in with your current or upcoming lessons re: climate change, ecology, biology, or even introductory science classes!

You'll be in good company - take a peek at the many schools that have planted with us in the past!

Location:

We have several planting sites located in close proximity to Rouge National Urban Park, in both Scarborough and Markham. The exact drop off locations are to be confirmed at a later date, once we have all of the numbers in.

Age & Numbers:

This program is available for grades 4 to 12. Please try to fill a bus with students - it’s more economical and ecologically friendly that way, too!  We are looking for groups of approximately 60, so please let us know your anticipated numbers as we may double classes up.

Typical schedule:

9:30AM –  Arrive at planting site (exact location TBD)

9:45AM – Intro to Rouge ecology & restoration prep (mulching etc.)

10:15AM – Restoration activity (planting, mulching etc.)

12:00PM – BYO litter less lunch

12:30PM – Guided nature hike with FRW staff

2:00PM – Group photo, thank you’s and departure

Available Dates:

We are now taking names for those interested in Spring 2022 plantings.

Cost:

Free! However, schools will need to pay for and arrange their own transportation to and from the restoration site. Please note, buses will be required to stay on site for the entire length of the program in case of emergency (thunder storm, very cold weather etc.). There is no other charge for the program.

Important reminders:

·    Please ensure you fulfill the proper student supervision ratios; due to limited staff resources, FRW cannot guarantee supervision over the lunch period

·    The bus will have to stay on site for the entire day in case of emergency

·    We will be spending the entire day outside, including lunch, rain or shine!