The Friends of Laurier Woods will be hosting their 2022 Annual General Meeting remotely via Zoom Email link on Wednesday, April 20, 6:00 – 8:00pm. The Friends of Laurier Woods are pleased to welcome Dr. Janice Gilbert, Founder and Executive Director of the Invasive Phragmites Control Centre, as Guest Presenter. Dr. Gilbert received her Ph.D. in Environmental Science at Ohio State University and has over 15 years in researching, monitoring, and managing invasive Phragmites. Invasive Phragmites, an aggressive plant that spreads quickly and out-competes native species for water and nutrients, is Canada’s worst invasive plant. In her audio-visual presentation Dr. Gilbert will share information about the plant and how to control it. During the business meeting President Fred Pinto will review the accomplishments of the Friends of Laurier Woods over the past year. The Auditor’s Report for the year will be reviewed and approved, and the 2022 Board of Directors will be elected. New members, those interested in the protection of this provincially significant wetland, are always welcome. Board members serve for a minimum one-year term and may also participate on any of the committees established to oversee the planning and development of this 240-acre site. Individuals interested in attending the AGM must be paid-in-full members of the Friends of Laurier Woods prior to being sent the access link. Advance membership purchase is available for $20.00/year/individual or $30.00/year/family by going to www.laurierwoods.com/beome-amember. Advance membership purchase is required by April 13th . The Friends of Laurier Woods was established as a charity to manage the area as a nature preserve; to establish an interpretive trail system, boardwalks, viewing platforms, and rest areas; and to promote the area for low-impact, day-use recreation. In 1991 the Friends of Laurier Woods and the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority became joint owners/managers of initial property that has grown to cover 250 acres today. The Woods, encompasses provincially significant wetlands, rocky outcrops, and upland forest, is a sanctuary to a broad range of wetland and woodland creatures, including migrating birds. An 8km trail network, accessible from the end of Brule Street, spans the site offering excellent opportunities for hiking and nature appreciation within the centre of urban North Bay.
