The Credit River Watershed is home to diverse wildlife that often goes unseen because of their solitary and nocturnal habits. Through our Conservation Youth Corps (CYC) program, volunteers are sometimes lucky enough to interact with these hard to spot species.
Another way our volunteers are lucky is because they get an exclusive look at the watershed. Staff guide them into off-trail areas to complete tasks where they often encounter more diverse wildlife.
Restoring Silver Creek Conservation Area
Our restoration work improves habitats for wildlife and plants to thrive in, leading to amazing opportunities like a day of successful birdwatching and fun species identification or hiking adventures.
Generations of Expertise in Stream Restoration
Seasoned environmentalists, ecologists and local government staff bring valuable knowledge of Silver Creek’s history and the species that call it home.
Through our CYC program, youth volunteers gain a true understanding of the ecological importance of their actions from these generations’ expertise in stream restoration practices, such as native plantings, invasive species and debris jam removal.
These efforts support endangered species like the redside dace and enhance the habitat for other wildlife, such as crayfish.
By improving water quality and stream structure, these actions create a healthier environment for aquatic life, fostering biodiversity and ensuring the creek remains a thriving ecosystem.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Environmental Stewards
Working alongside seasoned stewards, youth build environmental, leadership, advocacy and project management skills.
Through hands-on experiences, such as restoring habitats, youth learn the importance of environmental stewardship, inspiring them to take action in their communities. This mentorship prepares them to become the next generation of environmental advocates who will continue protecting areas like Silver Creek and its wildlife.
Volunteer Testimonial
Santhosh Durga Thyagarajan, a youth volunteer, shared their experience with us:
“Volunteering at Silver Creek’s clean up last fall was one of the best experiences. It was fulfilling and fun to explore the creek as we picked up the trash and uprooted the invasive Buckthorn. I was excited when we were instructed that we could also explore and inspect critters as we waded through the creek. We caught a variety of fish, crayfish, dragonfly nymphs and other aquatic species. When we tried to evacuate a bigger invasive buckthorn, it took us sometime but strategically and with team spirit we did it! I look forward to exploring and volunteering more with Credit Valley Conservation in 2025.”
Strengthening these intergenerational bonds helps ensure long-term conservation efforts, fostering a resilient ecosystem where species can thrive.
Native Crayfish in Ontario
Ecological Role
Our volunteers encountered many aquatic species while restoring Silver Creek, including crayfish.
Crayfish are important for maintaining water quality and ecosystem health. They serve as both scavengers, feeding on plants and as prey for larger animals, contributing to the balance of local food chains.
Through our Integrated Watershed Monitoring Program (IWMP), we use aquatic invertebrates as indicators of stream health. A diverse group of invertebrates is a sign of a healthy stream.
Did you know there are five native crayfish species that inhabit the Credit River Watershed? Read our blog Captivating Crayfish to learn six amazing facts about crayfish.
Threats from Invasive Species
Invasive species, like the rusty crayfish, threaten native crayfish by out-competing resources and habitat. The spread of invasive species, with any native species, can lead to declines in biodiversity.
Conservation Efforts
Protecting native crayfish habitats through stream restoration and invasive species management helps maintain the health of freshwater ecosystems and ensures the survival of these important aquatic creatures.
Civic Engagement and Community Stewardship
Our volunteer events include expertise from the Town of Halton Hills to help youth participants understand the importance of municipal and regional planning in conservation. Working together, they show how local actions—like those in Silver Creek—connect to broader community initiatives, such as the Hungry Hollow Sustainable Neighbourhood Action Plan (SNAP).
Shared Responsibility for Greenbelt Sustainability
By collaborating with us and experienced community members, youth also learn about the environmental challenges the Greenbelt faces, such as water quality, invasive species and habitat destruction.
Through this shared responsibility, youth gain a deeper understanding of how their actions, such as cleaning up the creek and maintaining its flow, help preserve the Greenbelt’s biodiversity for future generations.
Volunteer With Us
We have many opportunities throughout the year that contribute to a thriving environment, including CYC and Branch Out.
Conservation Youth Corps
Are you, or do you know a youth who is interested in taking environmental action? If so, apply to participate in our Conservation Youth Corps (CYC) program. This engaging five-day outdoor program has participants tackle environmental projects across their community and watershed. Registration opens March 24.
Discover Nature in Class
Are you a teacher? Learn how our Branch Out program offers your students a unique layered learning opportunity in your classroom, schoolyard and at a local green space. We offer this program during spring (April, May, June) and fall (September, October). A registration fee is required to participate.
Branch Out is not just a field trip, it’s an ecological experience!
By Keren Bromberg, Senior Coordinator, Community Outreach.
Where is Silver Creek?