Sensationalized and hyped stories come at us at such a rapid-fire rate that it’s sometimes easy to neglect giving appropriate attention to quieter but nonetheless insidious threats to our well-being. One significant menace which is growing, under the radar for most people, is the invasive Phragmites weed.

Schools out! Looking for some free things to do with kids? Here are a few suggestions, with more to follow as we find them.

After hiking through the woods, sipping hot chocolate and roasting chestnuts on an open fire, many visitors to Leo’s Tree Farm develop a warm holiday glow, in spite of the cold. Some of them don’t even purchase a tree. And that suits Leo just fine.

Read the entire article below or in Relish Elgin Holiday 2015

Elgin County's outdoor enthusiasts and naturalists, finding themselves right in the centre of the Carolinian Life zone, have long appreciated the vast diversity of flora and fauna to be discovered in the exploration of habitat from woodlands to wetlands, tallgrass prairie, lakes, streams and shoreline. Both long-standing and newer nature and conservation groups have have played varying roles in getting us out into nature, helping us appreciate it and ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Read about some of the groups who have led the way – naturally in Relish Elgin Fall 2015 Edition.