The unique landform features in Conservation Halton's watershed and its geographic location on the northern edge of the rich Carolinian Zone means that the watershed has a rich variety of species and habitats.  For many species, the Carolinian Zone or the Niagara Escapement is the only place that they can be found in Canada. 

How can you help?

We are actively involved with the monitoring and protection of rare species within our watershed but we need your help too. Without individuals taking an active interest in conserving sensitive species, they will become extinct.

Help us by reporting sightings of rare species to us through our online Species at Risk Reporting Form.

What is a Species at Risk?

According to the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources website, a “species at risk” is any naturally-occurring plant or animal in danger of extinction or of disappearing from the province. Once classified as "at risk", they are added to the Species at Risk in Ontario (SARO) List.

There are four categories, or classes, of "at risk", which are as follows:
EXTIRPATED - a native species that no longer exists in the wild in Ontario, but still exists elsewhere (e.g. Greater Prairie Chicken)
ENDANGERED - a native species facing extinction or extirpation (e.g. Cucumber Tree)
THREATENED - a native species at risk of becoming endangered in Ontario (e.g. Fowler’s Toad)
SPECIAL CONCERN - a native species that is sensitive to human activities or natural events which may cause it to become endangered or threatened (e.g. Monarch Butterfly).