Get involved with your watershed

- New members needed for TRCA's Watershed Committees for 2010-2012 Term -

TORONTO , Jan. 4 /CNW/ - If your New Year's resolution is to take action for the environment, now's your chance to make it a reality. Toronto and Region Conservation (TRCA) is looking for committed individuals to become new members for the following community-based Watershed Committees: Don Watershed Regeneration Council, Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Coalition and the Humber Watershed Alliance. These action-oriented committees consist of a diverse group of individuals of all ages and backgrounds who come together with the common purpose to protect, regenerate and celebrate their watershed. In each committee there are 15-20 spaces available specifically to residents who want to help shape and steer the environmental work being done in their community.

Members will assist with the implementation of the Watershed Plans for each watershed, work with communities to deliver watershed management programs, help build capacity for watershed management and sustainable communities, and also attend educational sessions. Members will also have the opportunity to share their knowledge, experience and skills on topics such as habitat regeneration, heritage, urban agriculture, recreation and education. The closing date for applications is January 25, 2010 . Interviews with selected individuals will be scheduled for the first week of February. Members will be appointed for a two year term with a possible extension for one additional year. Meetings will begin mid to late March, 2010.

"The people in our community, from residents, community groups, business, academic and other representatives are a vital part of our committees," said Adele Freeman , Director, Watershed Management, Toronto and Region Conservation. "This is a unique opportunity to not only act as a local guardian and champion for the watershed but to learn about the issues and actions in your community and to help protect and regenerate our watersheds for the people and wildlife that live there."

The committees are represented by residents, community groups, other public agencies, City of Toronto Community Councils, businesses, all levels of government and TRCA.

Candidates should have a demonstrated interest in the watershed/community including a willingness to meet the potential time and work commitments; have geographical representation within the watershed and or Lake Ontario drainage area; and have knowledge, skills and experience in disciplines that would assist in the implementation of assigned tasks and responsibilities.

For details about the Terms of Reference for each committee and to download an application form, please go to: http://www.trca.on.ca/protect/watersheds/watershed-champion.dot

Toronto and Region Conservation

With over 50 years of experience, Toronto and Region Conservation (TRCA) helps people understand, enjoy and look-after the natural environment. Our vision is for The Living City(R), where human settlement can flourish forever as part of nature's beauty and diversity. For more information, call 416-661-6600 or visit us at www.trca.on.ca

For further information: Rowena Calpito, Supervisor, Media Management, Toronto and Region Conservation, [phone] ext 5632, [email protected]