Virtual Presentation: Health of the Upper Grand River

Friends of the Grand River is excited to invite you to a special virtual presentation on Tuesday, October 1st, where we will share the results of a multi-year study on the health of the Upper Grand River.

This study, conducted in partnership with researchers from the University of Guelph, examined benthic invertebrate communities (the small insects and organisms living in our riverbeds) as indicators of stream health. By comparing samples collected in 2022–2024 with historical data from the early 2000s, the research provides a powerful picture of how the river ecosystem is changing over time.

This presentation will be made by Dr. Moira Ijzerman.

What you’ll learn during this session:

  • How invertebrate biodiversity reflects overall water quality and river health.
  • The influence of the Shand Dam on downstream habitat conditions.
  • What the presence of pesticides and pharmaceuticals in the river can (and can’t) tell us about ecosystem impacts.
  • Where the river shows resilience – and where there are concerns that require ongoing attention.

Whether you are an angler, conservationist, or simply a community member who cares about the health of our watershed, this presentation will help you understand the challenges and opportunities facing the Grand River today.

📅 Date: Wednesday, October 1st
🕕 Time: 7PM
📍 Location: CLICK HERE!

We hope you’ll join us for this important conversation about the future of our river. Please watch your inbox for the registration link.

Together, we can ensure the Grand River remains a thriving ecosystem for generations to come.

About Us

The Friends of the Grand River is a non-profit organization incorporated in 1995. The organization is made up of volunteer members, with an elected board of directors. The funding for projects is raised through membership fees, donations, sponsorship and fund raising events. Our core programs involve fish stocking, trail maintenance, garbage cleanup, tree planting and stream restoration projects

2024 Highlights

93

Contractor-sized Bags of Garbage Removed

1000+

Trees & Shrubs Planted

47,000

Fish Stocked

2000+

Volunter Hours Donated

Fergus | Crossroads: Boom & Bust | TVO Original

THE NEW FLY FISHER: FRIENDS OF THE GRAND RIVER

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Our members are directly involved in creating a healthier ecosystem around the Grand River system. Join our members to make sure this beautiful resource is available to future generations.
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Becoming a member will give you access to workshops and events where you will have access to resident experts who want to share their knowledge with you!
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Membership

Being a member of FOGR not only makes you privy to key information about the watershed, you also belong to a community of citizens that value the Grand River Tailwater for its natural beauty, historical river designation, fishery and recreational usage. It’s not only the financial support that matters but the everyday contribution to maintaining this special resource. Many hands makes light work!