As the snow falls and covers the fields,
It’s time to reflect on a year of high yields.
Much work has been done to protect rural places,
We celebrate now those stewardship faces,
Both farmers and residents, rural folks we respect,
Whose collective actions made a huge impact,
On the health of the watershed, and their own lands too!
Click the photo of the slideshow to see who’s who.
But first read the impacts of all of their actions.
It will fill your hearts with much satisfaction.
Ten hectares of woodland they restored,
With funds from our programs to help them afford,
To plant 10,000 trees, what a watershed score!
Sixty hectares of fields planted with cover crops,
Improved soil health, give these farmers some props!
Rural folks controlled invasives on 11 hectares,
To ensure native plants have a place to grow there.
Four well projects protected water quality,
To keep drinking water safe for the community.
Over 100 hectares enrolled in Bird Friendly Hay,
Allowed grassland birds to fledge and make their way.
During this year’s count 150 birds were heard.
Hay harvested late helps “At Risk” birds.
One hectare of sensitive farmland retired
Too wet or too steep, it grew yields less desired
Now, with time to rest, soil health will return
to grow native plants and perhaps the odd fern.
Many thanks to our landowners, they’re our moon and our stars,
Click the photo below to find out who they are.
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Wishing you a happy new year from,
The Countryside Stewardship Team