Kelsey Ecological Society wraps summer with tour and fall barbecue

PREECEVILLE — Members of the Kelsey Ecological Society enjoyed a special outing that concluded with its annual fall windup barbecue on Aug. 24.

A group of close to 30 members toured the Thorson-SWF Land Trust near Preeceville and ended the day with a barbecue at the home of Norm and Diane Parkin.

Edgar and Doreen welcomed the group by sharing the story of their land and donation. Suzanne Joyce and her husband spoke about how important citizen science observations are to conservation efforts in the province and provided a few minutes of instruction on phone apps that can make this fun and easy.

“Throughout the day, we also learned how to identify plants in the wild, and were split into two groups for those who were adventurous and did a longer hike, and those who did the shorter trek. A highlight was being able to see some osprey, a great blue heron, and numerous other waterfowl along the Assiniboine River. It was great to also see some bees still out and about on plants. The day and evening were a great way to conclude the summer,” said Joyce.

“Huge thanks to the Thorsons for everything, to the Parkins for welcoming us into their home (and garden), to Dave Weiman for leading a group of keeners, and to all who came and shared their potluck dishes, their friendship and their love of nature,” said Joyce.

The club has grown and continues to thrive. Next, the club will host a panel discussion on how to protect the diversity of nature and agricultural farmers in the area.