OPG’s Saunders Hydro Dam Visitor Centre had the pleasure of hosting two fun, free educational events for the community over the past weekend.
On Saturday, August 6, the centre welcomed over 130 guests to see the Earth Rangers who showcased their animal ambassadors including a barn owl, a woodland painted turtle, a toucan and a scentless striped skunk, all who were featured during one of three interactive 30 min shows detailing the importance of environmental conservation. Earth Rangers staff helped promote “OPG’s Climate Guardians”, a program powered by the Earth Rangers that encourages families to sign up and learn more about combating climate change through fun activities online.
“A special thanks from OPG to the Earth Rangers presenters and their animal ambassadors who left the crowd educated and inspired this past weekend.” said Matt Mulvihill, OPG’s Stakeholder Relations Advisor.
On Sunday, August 7, the OPG Saunders Hydro Dam Visitor Centre hosted the 5th annual Teddy Bear Picnic after a long-awaited two-year hiatus. The Teddy Bear Picnic brought together many of the community’s first responders including the Ministry of Transportation, Akwesasne Mohawk Ambulance, Cornwall Police and the Cornwall Fire Department, all of which had emergency vehicles for guests to explore. Each agency had staff on hand to explain their respective roles in helping to protecting Cornwall and the surrounding communities for the 140 plus guests in attendance. The day also featured games, activities and even some cool treats from OPG to help guests beat the heat.
“At OPG, we are so appreciative for all of the community first responders that joined us for the Teddy Bear Picnic,” said Mulvihill, “It was great to host this event once again and the community partners made it a special day for the families who attended this year’s event.”
OPG visitor centre staff also contributed to the public safety messaging with its popular hydro dam safety model display, helping families understand the importance of staying clear, and staying safe around hydroelectric generating stations and control dams. Lastly, local youth were encouraged to enter an art contest and submit their drawing for a chance to win a prize.
Missed these events? Head over to the OPG website to pre-register for upcoming events, including Diversity of Living Things with Little Rays Nature Centre on Saturday, August 20 and a Science Rocks Workshop hosted by the River Institute on Sunday, August 21.
Krystine Therriault, Seaway News
ktherriault@seawaynews.media
