Township committee restarting popular environmental programs

Roger Varley, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Two popular environmental programs will be returning to Uxbridge this year, council was told Tuesday.

Tom Fowle of the Environment and Sustainability Committee said in a deputation that the committee is resurrecting its Environmental Hero award to recognize the efforts of residents, groups and organizations making a special contribution to the protection or enhancement of the environment. He said the program was started 20 years ago but has been on hiatus since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fowle said the committee is seeking nominations for the award, which will be presented by the end of the year.

Following Fowle, committee chair Christine McKenzie said there would also be a return of the award-winning program "The Brook Never Sleeps," another initiative that was put on hold because of COVID-19.

"The Brook Never Sleeps" is a hands-on, educational event that introduces young people to the nature and ecology of the local creek. McKenzie said the program is aimed at school children aged 10 to 14 and involves both indoor and outdoor activities. However, this year's version will be held in the fall instead of next spring.