National Wildlife Week

As an organic gardener, I was interested to find out that the Canadian Wildlife Federation (CWF) has a National Wildlife Week (this year from April 5 - 11th), and is using "Our Home and Native Plants" as the theme.

As they point out, while plants aren't exactly wildlife, our native plant species provide food and shelter that keep birds, bees, waterfowl and mammals alive. In addition, native plants generally need less fertilizer, watering and protection from pests. Plants they identify as disappearing include prickly pear cactus, goldenseal and golden paintbrush (I haven't seen any of these around Parry Sound).

Last summer, CWF and BBCanada.com partnered to introduce the Backyard Habitat Certification for Bed & Breakfasts. BBCanada.com members from across the country were encouraged to grow wild in their gardens and apply for certification. What does this mean for you, the guest? You can now rest easy knowing that where you are staying is free from pesticides and has demonstrated a commitment to providing a sustainable place for Canadian wildlife. 40 Bay Street Bed & Breakfast will be pursuing this certification over the next year.