Naturalists send out call for members

Do you love the outdoors? Are you concerned about the environment and local issues?

Are you fascinated by nature and interested in learning more about our natural environment? If so, the York Simcoe Naturalists Club may be the club for you!

Formed in 1999, members of the York Simcoe Naturalists (YSN) Club have a special interest in outdoor recreation, natural history, and a voice on environmental issues and concerns. The YSN Club draws members from York Region and Simcoe County, and is a member of Ontario Nature. The Club focuses on local environmental issues that have a direct impact on nature, such as urban sprawl and infrastructure projects that include freeway construction, sewer and water mains, and the incinerator.

The YSN Club meets on the second Tuesday of every month at the River Drive Park Community Centre, located at 20 Oak Ave. in Holland Landing, at 7:30 p.m. Guest speakers are invited to each meeting and present on a wide variety of nature related topics. The next YSN Club meeting will be held on Feb. 12 and will feature

Gary Hall of the Bruce Trail Conservancy. The March 11th meeting will feature Dr. Phil Taylor of Bird Studies Canada and the April 8th meeting will feature Dr. Bridget Stutchbury, author of "Silence of the Songbirds".

"Our General Meetings are a great way to meet like minded individuals who have similar interests and hobbies," said YSN president Sylvia Bowman. "There is so much knowledge to be shared amongst our club members and from our guest speakers, I learn something new every time we get together!"

Not only does the Club take part in monthly meetings, but they also are involved in field trips and regular outings. In 2007, the YSN Club became stewards of the Cawthra Mulock Nature Reserve, in Newmarket. The Club holds regular outings and work projects on the Reserve.

"Our next guided hike on the Cawthra Mulock Nature Reserve will take place on Saturday, Feb. 16 at 10 a.m.," said Bowman.

"All are welcome to come out and learn about the natural environment of the Reserve and some of the stewardship projects that have taken place over the years."

The Cawthra Mulock Nature Reserve is a 275 acre property located at 18462 Bathurst St., just north of Green Lane, Newmarket. The property consists of forest, old fields, streams and wetlands. The Reserve encompasses a large variety of wildlife habitats, and provides refuge for many plant and animal species.

If you are interested in learning more about the York Simcoe Naturalists or being a guest speaker, visit www.ysnaturalists.ca or email ysnclub@yahoo.ca. All are welcomed to attend the YSN General Meetings and the guided hike on Feb. 16.