The Boyne River Keepers (BRK) are continuing their work to make the Boyne River a safe, enjoyable and educational space for all — including the many bird species that depend on the river’s habitat.
Standard Photos by Steve Doell and Dylan Labossiere
The group is launching a bird-watching initiative to help residents learn more about the birds that visit or reside along the Boyne. BRK education lead Steve Doell said the river corridor is rich with biodiversity and offers strong opportunities for nature learning.
“We are trying to bolster the environmental education side of the work we do with Boyne River Keepers, and we are going down the path regarding birds of the Boyne and its biodiversity,” he said.
Each year, more than 100 species are observed along the river — some nesting for the summer, others stopping briefly while migrating, and some living here year-round.
“You just never really know what you are going to see,” Doell said. “We have such a diverse little gem of a river that flows through our community.”
With funding from the Carman Area Foundation and the Redboine Watershed District, BRK will install a large interpretive sign at Ryall Park near the kayak and canoe launch. The sign will highlight a range of bird species commonly seen along the river, as well as facts about their habits and ecological roles.
The artwork for the sign is being developed by Interlake artist Heather Hinam of Second Nature Creative Interpretation. BRK also plans to feature local artists in future components of the project.
“We want to celebrate the local knowledge that exists in the community, and will eventually be accepting ongoing submissions of photos, artworks, creative writing pieces, resources and engaging prompts to include in a space on our website,” Doell said.
Visitors will also be able to scan QR codes placed along the walking path, linking them to BRK’s website to create an interactive learning experience.
The interpretive sign is expected to be installed in the spring, with the QR code component planned as phase two later in the year.
“We are excited to get more people outside to use, enjoy and walk gently on the land,” Doell said. “It gives people an option to enjoy the outdoors in a respectful and environmentally cautious way while showcasing the curiosity, awe and wonder the Boyne has to offer — hopefully with binoculars hanging from their necks as well.”
More information about Boyne River Keepers projects is available at www.boyneriverkeepers.ca.
