Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) kicked off the summer in style with its annual Celebrate the Humber event. Held on Saturday, June 15 at Étienne Brulé Park, the gathering attracted more than 800 visitors this year.
The Humber River, historically home to Indigenous peoples and an ancient transportation route known as the Carrying Place Trail, also served as a site for post-European settlement homes and industries in Toronto.
In 1999, The Humber was designated a Canadian Heritage River, recognizing its cultural, recreational, and ecological significance. TRCA Celebrate the Humber honours this designation and explores the river’s rich history and the importance of the Carrying Place Trail.
This year’s event commenced with Elder Garry Sault, an Ojibway Elder of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, performing a traditional smudging ceremony.
Following this, John MacKenzie, TRCA’s Chief Executive Officer, delivered remarks emphasizing the significance of the river’s natural, cultural, and recreational heritage. He stressed that the event is also a call to action, reminding us of our shared responsibility as stewards of this watershed.
Attendees engaged in hands-on activities to learn about the river’s history and conservation efforts.
Highlights included starting native seeds in paper pots, a guided exploration of the Humber River, examining aquatic sediment under a microscope, and learning to cast a fishing rod.
These activities provided educational value while cultivating a deeper connection to the river and its ecosystem.
By bringing the community together to celebrate the Humber River’s heritage, we foster environmental responsibility and ensure that the Humber River is protected and valued for future generations!