Dozens of trees and shrubs were planted by students from 25 schools across Grey and Bruce counties during a youth climate conference held in Owen Sound earlier this week.
The fourth annual Youth Climate Action Conference (YCAC) brought approximately 125 elementary students, 20 secondary students, and 27 educators to the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre on Wednesday.
“So many local people have come together to listen to some of the most eager students from schools across both school boards,” said YCAC co-organizer Leigh Grigg. “And it doesn’t stop when the buses come at the end. Each school leaves with seed funding of $500 to make their project idea a reality at their own school."
Grigg added grassroots fundraising throughout the year and the generous support from the community, including Bruce Power, Community Foundation Grey Bruce, Stewardship Grey Bruce, and the Town of Blue Mountains. Made the day possible.
The conference opened with drumming from the Saugeen Ojibway Nation Drummers, followed by remarks from Saugeen First Nation Chief Conrad Ritchie and Chippewas of Nawash unceded First Nation Acting Chief Jessica Keeshig-Martin.
A keynote presentation from a St. Mary's high school teacher and students from the green industries program outlined their experience designing, installing, and planting several new community garden spaces at their school. Students then took part in workshops exploring water, land, and energy themes run by local organizations such as Grey Sauble Conservation Authority and the Saugeen Ojibway Nation Coastal Waters Monitoring Program.
It was during one of those workshops that students planted a "mini forest" on the property which was made up of 160 trees and shrubs.
While students were participating in the workshops, teachers learned from Canadian charity Learning for a Sustainable Future how to connect climate to their curriculum.
The day ended with students sharing their project ideas, such as creating pollinator gardens and restarting school composting programs.
