Join this third annual Sacred Water Walk which is held in ceremony and in prayer for the health of our waters. Many of us have been inspired by grandmother Josephine Mandamin and her dedication to water protection through walking for the water. In honour of all that has been inspired in us through her walks, we feel called to walk for the health of the Speed and Eramosa rivers that we enjoy so freely. 

 Because we are in a specific Anishinaabe Ceremony, women wear long skirts and men long pants to show our respect for our Grandmothers, for Mother Earth and for ourselves. Women on their Moon-time do not carry the water during this time, as they are already in Ceremony.

A Water Walk is Not

*a protest, activist action, or a social event.

*about the individual or what you can gain sitting idle

*a place to look for your next partner

*for boasting, social chatting, carelessly talking nor gossiping

*for thrill seekers, nor is it a contest or competition, exercise, a work-out, or a game of “I can handle it” or go the distance

*for those that just show up at the end the walk to be seen and to say they were there

*a performance piece

*for those who have romanticized ideas about Indigenous people

*for those who feel the need to force other cultural values onto protocols already in place

Note: If anyone is disruptive/disrespectful, or abusive they will be asked to leave.

A Water Walk IS first and foremost about Water. It is a ANISHINAABE CEREMONY from the time the pail is lifted to the time of set down the Walkers are in Ceremony.

An adventurous exploration of Guelph’s east-end greenspaces and gravel trails by bike. This 30 kilometre ride will cover a variety of terrain including park, and mountain bike trails, and gravel and paved roads. The ride is open to everyone with a bike that is suitable for the varying terrain, and the ability to ride for 30 kilometre at an average speed of 15-20km/hr. Members of Speed River Gravel Grinders will lead the ride at varying paces so that no one is left behind. For more information visit the Facebook event page for the Speed River Gravel Grinders or email kelly@speedriverbicycle.com

online registration for insurance: https://forms.gle/VuqK7VHcUYzyJ8Hp7

What beautiful birds visit us in our backyards? Join us at this family friendly event to learn who they are and what makes them special.

Garlic mustard is an invasive herb native to Europe. It spreads quickly, interfering with the growth of other plants including several species at risk. While it is not a good food source for wildlife, it is high in vitamins A and C, and it makes great pesto. Join us to learn about the plant and how to safely pull it. You'll contribute to the health of the river bank, and leave with some ingredients for your very own delicious pesto! 

Please bring your own containers. ALL WELCOME. This is a family-friendly event.

This is a WaterTalk focusing on algae in local rivers & reservoirs, followed by an informal networking event with some facilitated discussion topics, beer, and opportunities to connect in the future.

Rebuild a forest ecosystem along the river corridor by planting native groundcover, shrubs and trees. Start or build your own pollinator garden by creating native seed balls that you can take home. Enjoy snacks as well. All ages are welcome!

Silence invites families, friends, and stewards of water to a celebratory parade on Saturday, May 9. Come gather at the Royal City bandshell (139 Gordon St, Guelph) at 2 p.m. The procession will include drummers, dancers, a parade band, banners, and more. The parade will move joyfully from the river to Silence at 46 Essex St. This event is part of a larger River Chants presentation offered at Silence on May 8 and 9 with lead up events on April 4 and 5. Dress in blue, carry signs celebrating water, bring whistles and sound makers. In advance, Silence will host a banner making workshop so stay tuned for details.

Tour of the former Correctional Centre lands led by the Guelph Hiking Trail Club along the Old Railway Spur Sidetrail and the Radial Line Trail.  5.5 kilometers, 2 hours

Does your family love nature? If so, it’s likely because your family spends time together, having fun in nature. Here’s a way to surprise Mom with an afternoon of fun, exercise and learning for her day of honour. Join Yorklands Green Hub for the Mother’s Day Walk, one of the monthly walks on the Yorklands property. This guided gentle walk will get your family connected to the diverse biological ecosystems and history of the future Yorklands property and the dreams for its future. Learn more about the work of the trees and wetlands to cleanse our air and water. Dress for the weather. Meet the beautiful heritage tree that won an award in the 2018 Great Tree Hunt organized by GUFF.

Rebuild habitat and have fun at the same time! Prizes for the most bags of Garlic Mustard pulled. Learn how to use an extractivator for pulling buckthorn. All ages are welcome. Snacks are provided.