HCA Blog

Make Nature Part of Your 2025!

January 8, 2025

The start of a new year is a perfect opportunity for new beginnings and exciting adventures! Whether you're setting resolutions or simply looking for ways to refresh your routine, 2025 offers a great chance to embrace the outdoors. Why Nature? Spending time in nature has been shown to improve mental…

Nature & Wildlife, Sustainability

Invasive Species and Holiday Decorations

December 9, 2024

Many people unknowingly decorate for the holidays with invasive plants, thinking they are making an eco-friendly choice by using natural materials. Understanding which invasive plants are commonly used, why they pose a problem, and how to dispose of them responsibly can help protect native species. Small changes in your holiday…

Inside HCA, Nature & Wildlife

Hamilton’s Natural Areas Inventory: Nature Counts 3

November 21, 2024

A Natural Areas Inventory (NAI) involves surveying natural areas, whether they be as large as conservation areas or as small as urban woodlots, for the plants and wildlife that live there. By getting a picture of the habitat types and species occupying these spaces, we can make informed decisions on…

Inside HCA, Nature & Wildlife

Invasive Hammerhead Worms

October 26, 2024

Hammerhead worms are an invasive species, that are also toxic, and have been found in Hamilton since 2020. This worm has now been found throughout the area including Dundas Valley and Cootes Paradise. It was first spotted in Ontario in 2017. Learn all about these invasive worms here, plus check…

Guides, Recreation

Discover Westfield’s Scenic Trails

October 11, 2024

There’s no shortage of trails to hike in the Hamilton area or even at HCA, but there’s really only one place you can step back in time, and nature, as you explore. Westfield Heritage Village Conservation Area recently added to their trail system, and now offers nearly 7 KM in…

Recreation

Autumn Adventures at HCA

October 1, 2024

The air is crisp, and the leaves are changing—fall is here! Every area at HCA is beautiful this time of year, but some areas are certainly more popular than others. So, whether you're looking for quieter spots or somewhere well traveled, here's your guide to enjoying the fall colours across…

Recreation

Fall Colour Updates

September 21, 2024

Trying to find the perfect time to get out and see the fall colours can be tricky. It's a balance between getting out when they have changed colour enough, but before the leaves start to fall too much. HCA does not officially monitor our conservation area's level of fall colours,…

Inside HCA, Nature & Wildlife, Sustainability

Celebrating 30 years of Stewardship!

June 4, 2024

In 2024, the Hamilton Conservation Authority (HCA) and Conservation Halton (CH) are celebrating a partnership that has produced 30 years of stewardship success. What is stewardship? Stewardship means caring for the land to maintain it in a healthy state for today and future generations. In Hamilton and Halton, private landowners…

Guides, Recreation

Discover Boating at HCA

May 30, 2024

Hamilton’s conservation areas offer a wealth of outdoor activities, but for many, boating stands out as a highlight. HCA is excited to share that boat rentals are once again available at Christie Lake and Valens Lake Conservation Areas! Here’s your guide to boating at HCA’s beautiful locations! Where to Boat at HCA…

Turtle-y Awesome! Nest Protector Rental Program

May 14, 2024

The spring of 2024 marks the third year of an amazing collaboration between HCA, and teacher Sean Polap and his construction class at Milton District High School! In the past, HCA has been the grateful recipient of 5 bat boxes, 23 turtle nest protectors, 38 bird boxes, and 2 owl…

Solar Eclipse at HCA

April 9, 2024

The eclipse came, some saw, and now a full solar eclipse won't return to Hamilton for 120 years! For those that were able to view it where the clouds would allow, it was an awe inspiring experience. Even if you didn't get to see the eclipse itself, the darkness at…

HCA and the Solar Eclipse

March 25, 2024

The solar eclipse is coming up soon, and will be darkening the sky on April 8. So, what do you need to know about this exciting phenomenon, and how will it impact visiting HCA? Learn more here! When is the eclipse? The eclipse will take place on Monday, April 8.…

Inside HCA, Nature & Wildlife

HCA Forests

March 21, 2024

Each year, International Day of Forests is celebrated on March 21. It began in 2012, when the United Nations General Assembly declared the day as such to raise awareness about the importance of all types of forests. What type of forests are in the HCA watershed? What risks are posed…

Inside HCA, Nature & Wildlife, Sustainability

All About Oak Wilt

February 26, 2024

Oak Wilt is a new invasive threat to Oak trees in Ontario, but what is it? Why is it a problem? Where did it come from? And how can it be identified and managed? Learn all about Oak Wilt here. What is Oak Wilt? Oak Wilt is an invasive pathogen…

Inside HCA, Nature & Wildlife, Sustainability

Get Involved!

February 26, 2024

Looking to make an impact? The Hamilton Conservation Authority frequently runs events targeting invasive species. In past events, volunteers have helped remove a variety of species from conservation areas all around the watershed. This year we’re looking to do even more! The over 3,000 hectares managed by HCA are checked…

Inside HCA, Nature & Wildlife, Sustainability

Detection and Mapping of Invasive Species

February 26, 2024

Protecting the environment against invasive species is a big job. One of the hardest challenges is catching new species when they arrive, and making sure everyone knows about them - both organizations and the public. Luckily, you can make a difference in the fight against invasives! There are some amazing…

Inside HCA, Nature & Wildlife, Sustainability

Meet the Invasive Species Team

February 26, 2024

Here at the HCA, invasive species are managed by our Invasive Species Technicians Ben & Bryson! Ben and Bryson joined the HCA in August of 2023, and work closely with the ecology team and our conservation areas services staff to plan, strategize, map, remove, treat, and restore areas affected by…

Preventing the Spread of Invasive Species

February 26, 2024

One of the most important frontiers in the fight against invasive species is preventing them from getting here in the first place! Preventing the spread of many of these species is quite a challenge. Some plants are introduced deliberately, although usually unknowingly, into home gardens. Oftentimes, however, invasives are spread…

Inside HCA, Nature & Wildlife, Sustainability

Invasive Species 101

February 26, 2024

It's Invasive Species Awareness Week (ISAW)! ISAW takes place each year during the last week of February to raise awareness about invasive species. What is an invasive species? Why are they bad? How can we manage them? This is your Invasive Species 101! What are invasive species? Plants, animals, and…

Inside HCA, Nature & Wildlife

What is a wetland?

February 2, 2024

World Wetlands Day is held every year on February 2 to raise awareness, and recognize the important role wetlands play. Since the 18th century, nearly 90% of the worlds wetlands have been degraded; three times faster than forests. So what is a wetland and why are they important? Learn more…

Inside HCA, Nature & Wildlife, Sustainability

Christmas Tree Creek Restoration

January 22, 2024

In early January, HCA's Stewardship and Invasive Species staff teamed up to collect five truckloads of Christmas trees for a future channel restoration project in the HCA watershed. This has been an ongoing project that HCA does annually, but why do we do it and where do they go? Learn…

Guides

10 Tips for Winter Hiking

January 16, 2024

Hamilton boasts an array of picturesque hiking trails that transform into a winter wonderland when the temperatures drop and the snow falls. HCA conservation areas offer a variety of winter hiking experiences, like forests, escarpment areas, rail trails, frozen lakeshores, and more! To make the most of your winter hiking…

Nature & Wildlife, Recreation

Why do the leaves change colour?

October 23, 2023

Each fall we see the summery green trees turn to brilliant shades of yellow, orange, red, and even some deep purple. It can be stunning to witness, but why does it happen and what determines the colour the leaves will change to? How do the trees know when it’s time…

Inside HCA, Sustainability

Watershed Steward’s Appreciation Day

September 18, 2023

Each year, HCA's Hamilton Watershed Stewardship Program, in partnership with Conservation Halton, celebrate landowners at the Watershed Steward’s Appreciation Day. After a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic, the ceremony returned last week to Mountsberg Conservation Area. Eight landowners within HCA’s watershed were recognized and presented with a Watershed Stewardship…

Inside HCA, Nature & Wildlife

Habitat and Nest Boxes…Round Two!

June 14, 2023

HCA is thrilled that once again, teacher Sean Polap and his students have donated habitat boxes to be used in our areas! This year, it was his grade 10 construction class at Milton District High School that put the hard work into constructing the boxes and bringing them to reality.…

Healthy People & Areas, Sustainability

Decommissioning Water Wells

May 1, 2023

With all the spring rain and snowmelt, it is important to highlight the importance of groundwater and protecting it. Decommissioning water wells is an important step in this process, and grants are available locally to help private property owners protect groundwater! Groundwater Groundwater is water that is present below the…

Turtle Nesting Habitat

April 25, 2023

It has been an ongoing effort at HCA to help turtles find safe and suitable places to nest within our watershed, and particularly along the lower Spencer Creek. Turtles like to nest in areas that are sandy or gravely, which is often around roads and trails. As you can imagine,…

Heritage, Recreation

Canal Park: An Urban Nature Sanctuary

April 5, 2023

Along the banks of the Desjardins Canal in the heart of Dundas lies an urban nature sanctuary you may not have even noticed. Canal Park has undergone an incredible transformation since HCA acquired the property in 2008 and connects urban Dundas and Hamilton with the Cootes to Escarpment EcoPark System…

Inside HCA, Nature & Wildlife, Sustainability

What is Stewardship?

February 27, 2023

What is stewardship, why is it important, and how can the HCA help you become a steward? Simply put, stewards are caretakers of the land, and although Conservation Authorities and other environmental organizations exist to protect and preserve lands, we can’t do it all it all ourselves. This is where…

Inside HCA, Nature & Wildlife

Nest and Habitat Box Update

January 25, 2023

Nest and Habitat Box Update In the spring of 2022, Aldershot High School students built nest and habitat boxes and donated them to HCA. The majority of these went to Valens Lake, and the rest going to Christie Lake. Bird Boxes Of the 20 bird boxes the students built, HCA…

Healthy People & Areas, Recreation

Staying Safe this Winter

December 21, 2022

Winter is a great time to get out and explore! Enjoying the outdoors in a different season can be a whole new experience! Getting out in winter however, presents its own unique hazards that anyone enjoying the outdoors should be aware of before heading out. Know the Dangers of Hazard…

Healthy People & Areas, Nature & Wildlife

Living with Coyotes

October 6, 2022

Coyotes (Canis latrans) are one of eight members of the Family Canidae found in Canada. Often mistaken for wolves, coyotes are smaller, have shorter legs in relation to body size, and have narrower, pointed snouts. They are a common sight across both rural and urban landscapes, and are often found…

Heritage, Recreation

Westfield’s TH&B Locomotive 103

September 29, 2022

Since their creation, people have been drawn to all things train, and they have been admired by enthusiasts all over the world. The Toronto Hamilton & Buffalo (TH&B) Locomotive 103 is no exception. For over 66 years, the faithful TH&B Locomotive 103 has delighted countless train enthusiasts and general visitors…

Healthy People & Areas, Sustainability

Stormwater Stewardship in Hamilton

September 15, 2022

Not many of us think about where the water goes after we flush, do the dishes, or when the rain falls, but through most of urban Hamilton, lie hundreds of kilometres of sewer pipes directing the sewage to where it needs to go. Usually, light and average rainfall can be…

Guides, Recreation

Enjoy Labour Day Weekend at HCA

September 1, 2022

As the unofficial end of summer arrives this Labour Day weekend, we have some ideas for you to soak up the last few days of your summer holidays! Hit the Beach This one is pretty obvious but must be said, hit the beach! HCA has several beaches for you…

Inside HCA, Nature & Wildlife

Giant Hogweed

August 26, 2022

Giant hogweed is an invasive plant, likely introduced from Asia as an ornamental garden plant. It is part of the carrot family, and is a perennial (a plant that lives two years or more). If you find Giant hogweed, DO NOT touch it, as the plant poses dangers to humans…

Guides, Recreation

Your Guide to a Perfect Picnic

July 29, 2022

Food and the great outdoors, what’s not to like? Picnics are one of the simplest and most enjoyable ways to spend time outdoors. The key to a great picnic is to be prepared! That’s why we’ve put together a list of some simple tips to ensure you have a great…

Recreation

Enjoy the Great Outdoors All Year Long

July 15, 2022

Make adventures easy this summer, and all year round, with an HCA Membership Pass! By now you’ve probably heard about the HCA Membership, but may still be wondering if the pass is right for you. Unlike memberships for other destinations, the HCA Membership allows you AND your carload (up to…

Heritage, Recreation

The Hermitage History

June 28, 2022

If you've ever gone on a hike in the Dundas Valley, you've no doubt come across The Hermitage Ruins on the Main Loop Trail. As you could've guessed, these beautifully restored ruins have a unique story to tell, and one that includes some ghosts too! The known history of the…

Recreation

HCA Summer Scavenger Hunt

June 21, 2022

It's official, summer is here! There are endless activities to get up to, things to see and places to go. If you're wondering where your summer adventures should begin, check out the HCA Scavenger Hunt. Don't stop here, add as many activities to your summer plans as you want! Happy…

Nature & Wildlife, Recreation

Springtime at the Vinemount Boardwalk

April 26, 2022

Early spring is one of the best times to visit the boardwalk on the Dofasco 2000 Trail. Over two spans, the 1.9km boardwalk runs through the centre of the Vinemount Swamp. This is the largest intact forest remaining above the escarpment in Hamilton, and is an excellent example of a…

Sustainability

Benefits of a Rain Barrel

April 8, 2022

Do you have a rain barrel? They are a simple addition to a home, and provides many benefits for the environment and your wallet! What is a rain barrel? Simply put, they are big barrels that collect rain water, by directing your gutters or down spout to it. At the…

Inside HCA, Nature & Wildlife

All About Invasive Jumping Worms

March 22, 2022

What is a Jumping Worm? The term Jumping worm, refers to multiple species of Asian pheretimoid worm (Amynthas species) whose native range is in China, Japan and Korea. Jumping worms are a non-native and invasive type of earthworm. They are also known as ‘crazy worms’ or ‘snake worms’ for how…

Inside HCA, Nature & Wildlife

Nest and Habitat Boxes

March 8, 2022

Recently, HCA was approached by student teacher Sean Polap and his grade 11 class at Aldershot High School to provide nest boxes for our conservation areas. The students built the boxes and donated them to HCA. The boxes will provide habitat and protection for bats, turtles and tree swallows. What…

Inside HCA, Nature & Wildlife

Spongy Moths and Controlling Populations

February 22, 2022

What is the Spongy Moth? Spongy Moth, also known as LDD Moth (Lymantria dispar dispar), and formally known as Gypsy Moth*, is a non-native European insect that was first detected in Ontario in the late 1960s and is now well established in Southern Ontario. Where did they come from?…

Healthy People & Areas, Nature & Wildlife

Respecting Wildlife in HCA Areas

February 15, 2022

Conservation Areas provide a wide range of opportunities for people to get out and enjoy nature and enjoy outdoor activities. Recreational activities which involve viewing wildlife such as bird watching or wildlife photography can be especially fun and rewarding. There are some basic rules of etiquette however, that visitors should…

Nature & Wildlife

Reptile and Amphibian Hibernation

January 28, 2022

Ever wonder what happens to all the reptiles and amphibians in our area during the winter? You probably knew they hibernate, but more specifically where do they hibernate and how do they do it? Most importantly, what is a frogsicle?! We'll cover where the turtles, snakes, frogs and toads, and…

Recreation

New Year, New Adventures!

January 3, 2022

The start of a new year signals new beginnings and a chance to start fresh! Resolution or not, the new year is a great time to try and head outside a little more and even have a go at something new. Walking in nature has been linked to enhanced mental…

Healthy People & Areas, Sustainability

Get Smart About Salt!

December 9, 2021

Salt is an economic and effective way for keeping surfaces clear of ice in the winter. It is important however, to manage its use so it will have the least negative impact on our environment. Did you know? Salt can cause damage to buildings, vehicles and your footwear or clothing…

Recreation

Discover Mount Albion and the Chippewa Trail

November 30, 2021

We all know the ‘big’ conservation areas and trails, but there is a hidden gem on the Stoney Creek Mountain just waiting to be discovered! The Chippewa Trail and Mount Albion Conservation Area offers hiking, biking, birding and exploring opportunities. The Chippewa Rail Trail Parking lot is located at Mount…

Recreation, Sustainability

Sustainable Gift Giving

November 25, 2021

Another holiday season is here, and with it comes the big question of what to get for friends and family. Not to worry! We have some great, sustainable tips and ideas for you! Experience Trying to avoid giving more 'junk' that ends up getting stored away? Give the gift of…

Heritage, Recreation

Westfield Brings the Past to Life with Modern Technology

November 2, 2021

Have you ever heard a player piano, play its own tune? Or watched a master printer use a printing press to print a newspaper? Do you know what a turnkey was used for? Hint: it isn’t for unlocking doors – It is the tool doctors used to pull out a…

Nature & Wildlife, Sustainability

HCA Conservation Areas and Foraging

October 26, 2021

Foraging and harvesting mushrooms and other wild edible plants has become a popular hobby among outdoor enthusiasts and naturalists alike. The practice has spiked in popularity as more people are discovering outdoor spaces to enjoy and explore. Conservation areas owned and operated by HCA protect significant and sensitive natural areas,…

Nature & Wildlife, Sustainability

Leave the Leaves!

October 19, 2021

Wondering what to do with all those leaves that have fallen off the trees, or looking for a great reason to skip raking? Aside from saving time and energy, there are many other benefits to just leaving the leaves! What are the benefits? Leaves insulate and protect plants in the…

Recreation

Saltfleet – Your Key to a Hamilton Mountain Adventure

October 12, 2021

So, you’re looking to visit a waterfall, but you’d like a short hike too, or perhaps you’re looking for a much longer trek to take in some sights and test your endurance? Maybe you’ve heard how great the Bruce Trail is, winding through the Niagara Escarpment Biosphere reserve? You love…

Recreation

Fall in Love With HCA!

September 22, 2021

The air is crisp and the leaves are changing colour – fall is officially here! Everyone loves to get out this time of year to enjoy those cooler temperatures and fall foliage, so we break down our areas into ones that are a little quieter and the ones that are…

Inside HCA, Nature & Wildlife

Aquatic Monitoring and Electrofishing

September 9, 2021

Have you spotted our staff out in local creeks and streams and wondered what they are doing? Although they may look a bit like they are ghost-busting, they are actually electrofishing as part of HCA’s Aquatic Resource Monitoring Program. What is the Aquatic Resource Monitoring Program? It is HCA’s long-term…

Inside HCA, Nature & Wildlife, Sustainability

Managing Phragmites at HCA Areas

August 26, 2021

HCA staff have recently been working on managing invasive Phragmites at Valens Lake and Fletcher Creek by removing them through the cut-to-drown and spading method. Why are Phragmites a problem? Phragmites grow in dense stands that have the potential to completely outcompete and crowd out native species. These dense stands…

Sustainability

Sustainable Back to School Tips

August 24, 2021

It’s hard to believe that it’s already time to talk about back to school! The last couple of years have been a rollercoaster ride for parents and students alike, and whether you and your kids are nervous, excited or both, about the return to school, we have some tips to…

Healthy People & Areas, Nature & Wildlife

West Nile Virus in Hamilton

August 19, 2021

This week, a cluster of mosquitos trapped in Hamilton have tested positive for West Nile Virus, leading the medical officer of health to move the risk in Hamilton from moderate to high. This all sounds a bit scary, so what is West Nile Virus and what can you do to…

Guides, Recreation

Your Guide to a Day at the Beach

July 11, 2021

HCA offers 4 beautiful and sandy beaches just waiting for you to set up and enjoy the sunshine and cool water. Fifty Point and Confederation Beach Park are both located on the shores of Lake Ontario, while Christie Lake and Valens Lake each have beach areas at their reservoirs. Before…

Healthy People & Areas, Recreation

Dogs and HCA Areas

June 18, 2021

Bringing your furry, four-legged family members out on a hike can make for a great day in nature! We know our dogs love the outdoors just as much as we do but when heading into our areas, there are several important things to remember.

Guides, Recreation

Your Guide to a Hike in Nature

June 18, 2021

With almost 150km of trails at HCA areas, there are so many places waiting for you to discover and explore! Our trails have a lot of variety and range from short to long, easy to difficult with some paved and others on packed dirt or gravel. The best way to…

Healthy People & Areas, Nature & Wildlife

Tick Safety

June 16, 2021

Just the thought of ticks can give the heebie jeebies, but don’t let that deter you from enjoying time outside. With that said, it is still important to be smart about ticks and the risk they pose. What You Need to Know About Ticks Ticks are bugs that live in…

Healthy People & Areas, Sustainability

Pack In – Pack Out

June 9, 2021

Nothing ruins a day in nature quite like spotting garbage where it shouldn’t be. Our staff work hard to keep our areas clean, and the best way to keep them clean is making sure garbage ends up in the trash. How can you help? Leave your garbage at home. When…