Preserving the Rideau

In 2002, the Research & Monitoring Team produced a “State of the Rideau River” report that revealed alarming signs of decline in the Rideau Waterway and Cataraqui watersheds. The findings were a wake-up call, highlighting the urgent need to protect these treasured waterways, known not only for their natural beauty but also for their historical and recreational significance. This revelation was the catalyst for the formation of the Rideau Roundtable, a non-profit organization dedicated to the sustainable use and stewardship of the Rideau Waterway.

From the beginning, our mission has been clear: to promote the sustainable management of the Rideau waterways so that future generations can enjoy them as much as we do today. We envision a vibrant, healthy, and pristine waterway system that supports diverse ecosystems and provides recreational and educational opportunities for all. Achieving this vision, however, is a collective effort that requires the involvement of local residents, communities, organizations, and government agencies.

Over the years, Rideau Roundtable has been fortunate to partner with many incredible organizations, working together on projects that range from habitat restoration and water quality testing to educational workshops and guided canoe tours. These collaborations have been instrumental in transforming our vision into reality, turning curious onlookers into passionate advocates for the preservation of our waterways.

One of our most beloved initiatives is our interpretive voyageur canoe tours. Imagine paddling down the river in a 34-foot replica voyageur canoe, guided by interpreters dressed in traditional voyageur attire. As you glide through the water, you'll learn not just paddling techniques, but also the rich history, unique ecosystems, and compelling stories of the Rideau. Our tours include:

• Wetland Awareness Tours: Explore the Swale, a Class 1 wetland in Smiths Falls, and discover the economic, health, and environmental benefits of wetlands.

• Water Testing Tours: A family-friendly, hands-on experience where you can test water quality and understand its impact on river health.

• Paddlefest: Our annual celebration of the Rideau River, featuring a championship race where you can compete or cheer on participants while enjoying the festival atmosphere.

Looking ahead, we're excited to announce several new projects that will expand our reach and impact. This fall, we're launching the Rideau Eco-Literacy Centre in partnership with six regional libraries. This program is designed for children in grades 1 through 6, offering hands-on learning experiences through recreational activities. Our goal is to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards by equipping them with the knowledge and skills they need to protect and sustain our environment. We are also developing an online hub of eco-literacy resources for teachers, families, and educators, providing free access to materials that can help bring environmental education into classrooms and homes.

In addition, we’re thrilled to introduce our new Biochar Project, led by Nathaniel Morris, our resident expert in mycology and biochar. Biochar, a form of charcoal produced from biomass, has incredible potential as a soil amendment, enhancing soil fertility and sequestering carbon. Nathaniel will be educating the community on how to produce and use biochar in their own gardening and farming projects, offering workshops and resources to make this powerful tool accessible to all.

As we continue to grow and expand our programs, we are always looking for passionate individuals and organizations to join us in our mission. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, attending one of our events, or simply learning more about what we do, we’d love to hear from you.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 19, 2024! Our Fall Colors Tour is the perfect way to experience the stunning autumn scenery while learning about the importance of protecting our waterways. It’s a magical experience you won’t want to miss. Register here.

To get involved or learn more about our programs, email us at [email protected]. Together, we can ensure the Rideau waterways remain a vibrant, healthy, and cherished resource for generations to come.