You play a critical role in building a green and sustainable future for the Town of Innisfil. Browse this page for tips and resources to get started on or continue your climate action. 

Community programs and events

Take part in one of the many community programs and events that support reducing waste and keeping our environment healthy. 

Earth Day

On April 22, people across the world acknowledge Earth Day to celebrate our planet and take climate action. Stay tuned for local events and activities. 

No Mow May

No Mow May is an annual campaign calling all garden owners and green space managers not to mow during May to provide a feast for pollinators, tackle pollution, and lock away atmospheric carbon below ground. We're taking part by delaying our trail maintenance practices on the Trans Canada Trail to allow wildflowers to bloom and provide nectar for pollinators such as bees, beetles, butterflies, and more. This area is a hotspot for wildflowers and monarch butterflies, and No Mow May helps create a healthier, more vibrant ecosystem.

You can learn more about pollinators and how to support them by visiting the Innisfil ideaLAB & Library to discover resources, displays and more

Innisfil Seed Library

The Innisfil Seed Library is a volunteer-run program with locations at the Cookstown and Lakeshore branches of the Innisfil ideaLAB & Library. The program is free and open to everyone. Visitors can browse the selection of vegetable, herb and flower seeds and sign them out to grow at home.

At the end of the growing season, you are encouraged to donate seeds back into the program. Innisfil Seed Library also hosts many workshops and webinars to help you grow sustainably at home.

Pitch-In Day
Each year, we host Pitch-In Day to encourage people to get involved in a community cleanup.

Shoreline cleanup

The Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup is a national conservation program that provides Canadians the opportunity to take action in their communities wherever water meets land, one bit of trash at a time. Visit their website to lend a hand or lead a shoreline cleanup near you!

Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority

The Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA) works to protect the Lake Simcoe watershed which includes the Town of Innisfil. You can visit the LSRCA to explore nature and learn more about their conservation efforts, programs and permits.

Climate kids

Everyone—big and small—can reduce their impact on the environment. The Government of Canada offers a variety of resources to help children play, explore and learn about climate change.

Climate change mitigation

Mitigation refers to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and energy use to slow climate change. We can also capture carbon from the atmosphere by planting more trees and protecting greenspace. Check out some ways you can reduce your impact and mitigate climate change.

Reduce your waste

There are many ways you can reduce your waste. Reduce, reuse, recycle, or repair as many items as you can. Methane, a powerful greenhouse gas, comes from products buried in landfills. Reducing the amount of products we consume, and the number that end up in the trash, can help decrease our carbon footprint.

Visit the County of Simcoe's website for waste reduction programs. 

Assistive device exchange

Managed by the Independent Living Service of Simcoe County and Area, Quipit allows people with adaptive equipment they no longer need to list it for sale or for free. People who need equipment can search the website for equipment at reduced or no cost.

Recycling building materials and furniture

ReStores are building supply stores run by Habitat for Humanity affiliates that accept and resell quality new and used building materials. Shopping at a ReStore is an environmentally conscious decision, as much of what is sold at ReStores is new, gently used or customer returns that would otherwise end up in a landfill.

Leave the car at home

Walk, bike, or take public transit to get to work or run errands when you can. If you have to drive, plan your route to decrease the distance that you are driving and reduce emissions. This is a win-win for the environment and your health.

Conserve water and energy

Adjusting your behaviour to conserve energy and water can be as simple as turning off the tap while brushing your teeth or unplugging electronics when not in use. Steps to weatherize your home can reduce energy loss, lower your heating and cooling bills, and make your home more comfortable. Conserving energy and water is a great way to reduce your impact on the environment and save money! 

Plant trees

Planting more trees in our communities not only captures carbon dioxide, it also creates shade and cools the surrounding areas. 

Tree planting programs

The Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA) and Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA) both offer tree planting services to landowners throughout the watershed. There are special programs available to help offset the cost of tree planting. Staff from the NVCA and LSRCA will be able to advise you if you are eligible.

Purchase tree seedlings

Want to plant your own trees? Check out these tree sale events:

Climate change adaptation

Climate change adaptation involves preparing for and adapting to environmental changes. Being prepared allows us to cope with climate change impacts and promotes resilience. There are a number of steps you can take to protect yourself and your family.

Prepare for emergencies

As our climate changes, extreme weather events are going to become more common. Be prepared by:

  1. Knowing the risks
  2. Making a plan for your family for when an emergency strikes
  3. Building an emergency survival kit

Follow weather warnings, alerts, and the UV index

With increasing temperatures, be aware of the heat and cold warnings issued and follow the tips to stay safe in extreme temperatures. Alerts for extreme weather events such as severe thunderstorms or tornado warnings should be monitored to ensure your family is prepared. 

The UV index tells us the intensity of the UVB rays. Sun protection precautions should be taken when the index is 3 or higher.

Flood protection

Take steps to protect your home against floods. Clean out eavestroughs, extend your downspout, and keep storm drains clear. In your basement, keep valuables off the floor and stored in watertight containers, check your sump pump, and keep floor drains clear.

Rain gardens

Rain runoff from roofs, driveways and patios can collect pollutants such as fertilizers and other chemicals that will then enter the storm sewer system. By planting a rain garden, you can help collect rainwater and allow it soak into the ground.

Planting a rain garden

Rain gardens look like regular gardens, but they have unique design features and consist of native plant species suited for our weather and climate. Here are some tips for planting a rain garden.

Do I have to keep the rain garden on my property that the builder installed?

Please check your purchase agreement or reach out to the builder before removing a rain garden. Some developments in the community are required to install rain gardens as part of the subdivision agreement.

Why should I plant a rain garden?

Rain gardens help mimic the natural water cycle and reduce the amount of water entering traditional stormwater sewers. According to Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority, stormwater run-off is a major source of water pollution entering creeks, streams and Lake Simcoe.