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Author: Alyssa Heuchert

School’s almost out for summer

FUN ACTIVITES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

Kids around the province rejoice: school’s almost out for summer! Keep them busy with these fun activities, and save some energy at home while you’re at it. 

SPLISH SPLASH WATER PARK

Splish Splash Water Park is a fun destination that the whole family can enjoy. The massive water park has two locations to choose from: Minnedosa and Morden. Both featuring a slide tower, jumping pillow, trampoline, and so much more! They have lifeguards on duty during operating hours and provide lifejackets so you can feel confident about your kids’ safety. Be sure to check their requirements before attending. 

CONNECT WITH ANIMALS & NATURE

Interacting with animals helps bolster confidence, empathy, and connection, and it’s a great opportunity to teach your kids about responsibility in a fun way. Consider visiting an animal shelter or a farm this summer to learn more about animals. If you want to be a bit more adventurous, go horseback riding at one of the many ranches in our province!   

NOT YOUR AVERAGE COMMUNITY TOUR

A great way to get out of the house and unplug from electronics is by taking a stroll through your community. While it may already be a regular part of your routine, you can step it up a notch by making a scavenger hunt out of it. Pick some landmarks in your area, whether it’s a statue, playground, or road sign, and create clues for your kids to solve. An even easier option is to make a list of things you’d find in nature, such as types of leaves, trees, or insects, and have your kids check them off as they go. It’s an easy way to make your regular family walks more exciting. 

PLAY A ROUND OF MINI GOLF

Mini golf is an easy and affordable activity for your family to enjoy. There are lots of mini golf courses throughout Manitoba, so you’re sure to find one close to home! While most are outdoors, there are some indoor locations available for rainy days. Find a location near you. 

JUMP INTO FUN AT A TRAMPOLINE PARK

You can have a blast and get some exercise at a trampoline park! Flying Squirrel Winnipeg is just one of the trampoline parks available, but it’s part of the largest indoor trampoline parks and features a variety of activities for you and your family to enjoy. Try out new moves on the freestyle courts, sink some baskets on the dunkhoops, or take a break and play some games in the arcade. You’re sure to be entertained for hours.  

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Reducing heating and cooling costs for Manitoba homes and businesses: Efficiency Manitoba offers new air source heat pump incentive program.

A new incentive program is now available to Manitobans who upgrade their heating system to a new, more energy-efficient alternative. Efficiency Manitoba’s Air Source Heat Pump Program will provide a financial incentive of up to $1.65 per square foot of heated space to eligible homeowners and small business owners who replace their existing heating system with an air source heat pump or cold climate air source heat pump. In a 1,600 square foot space, this provides an incentive of up to $2,640.

Air source heat pumps work as both a heating and cooling system and are designed to efficiently regulate indoor air temperature. Instead of creating heat by burning fossil fuels or powering an electric element, an air source heat pump uses a small amount of energy to pull the heat from the outdoor air to heat homes and buildings. In the summer months, it works in reverse by pushing warm air outside. This makes them an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly electric heating and cooling system.

“I commend Efficiency Manitoba on this new program announcement. By introducing incentives on air source heat pumps, Efficiency Manitoba is showing their commitment to helping Manitoba homes and business access energy-efficient heating solutions at a reduced cost,” said Minister of Environment, Climate and Parks and Minister responsible for Efficiency Manitoba Jeff Wharton.

The Air Source Heat Pump Program requires customers to work with a registered Efficiency Manitoba air source heat pump supplier.

“Working with the private sector is an important component of delivering energy efficiency to Manitobans,” said Wharton. “Programs like Efficiency Manitoba’s Air Source Heat Pump Program help to create and sustain green jobs, which positively benefits the Manitoba economy.”

The efficiency of air source heat pumps can result in significant annual energy bill savings. For example, replacing an electric furnace with a centrally-ducted cold climate air source heat pump in a 1,600 square foot home could save $500 per year in energy costs. This is in addition to the incentive provided by Efficiency Manitoba to reduce the upfront cost.

“We’re very pleased to introduce this program offering incentives on air source heat pumps,” said Colleen Kuruluk, Chief Executive Officer of Efficiency Manitoba. “Installing this energy- efficient heating and cooling technology can reduce heating costs by up to 30% when compared to an electric furnace. These persisting bill savings, in combination with our upfront financial incentive, help to make air source heat pumps and their resulting energy savings more accessible and affordable for Manitobans.”

Interested homeowners and businesses can learn more about Efficiency Manitoba’s Air Source Heat Pump Program by going to efficiencyMB.ca/ashp.

For more information, please email us at media@efficiencyMB.ca.

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Ground source heat pumps

HOW HEAT FROM THE GROUND CAN KEEP MONEY IN YOUR POCKET

Installing a ground source heat pump is one way Manitobans are increasing their comfort and savings all year long.

Ground source heat pumps (sometimes referred to as geothermal heat pumps) are a great way to increase the comfort level of any building without raising its environmental impact. Rather than burning fossil fuels or powering an electric element to create heat, ground source heat pumps move existing heat into or out of the ground through a loop of pipes.

“It’s a great way to use the resources in the ground,” says Michelle, who had a ground source heat pump installed at her home south of Treherne, Manitoba in October 2021. “We love the consistency of the temperature in the house now.”

Michelle hasn’t had a chance to try out the cooling mode yet, but she’s very happy with how thoroughly the ground source heat pump heats her home. With the electric furnace she used to have, the temperature would vary throughout her home with pockets of warm and cold air. This winter, her entire house was a consistent and comfortable temperature.

Paradise Geothermal installed the ground source heat pump at Michelle’s home. The company, based in Dunrea, Manitoba, has installed more than 1,000 ground source heat pumps for homes, churches, farm shops, and commercial buildings. Owner Gerard Paradis says other customers have also told him their comfort level was much higher with geothermal than other heating or cooling systems.

Besides the improved indoor comfort, ground source heat pumps can help people save money.

“If you are doing an electric heat retrofit, typically customers will see a reduction in their hydro bill by half,” Paradis says. “[The savings] add up over time.”

We also offer rebates of up to $2.50 per square foot of heated space to install a ground source heat pump to replace an existing electric or natural gas heating system.

“Efficiency Manitoba was very easy to deal with. Paradise Geothermal did the application, and I replied to the email and followed the very simple, straightforward process.”

– Michelle

INSTALLING A GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMP

Paradis recommends following some key steps to make sure your ground source heat pump is safe, efficient, and effective for your home.

Before the installation process, your contractor needs to do a heat loss calculation on the building to get the sizing requirements for the heat pump. They’ll also determine the most suitable ground loop design.

For existing buildings, your contractor will make sure the ductwork can handle the increased airflow from the heat and the electrical panel can handle the load. This isn’t usually a concern for new buildings since the ductwork will be new and properly sized.

Your contractor will also check your property to see if anything is in the way, like trees, telephone poles, or cable, electrical, or gas lines.

Then you’re ready for installation.

The groundwork has to be done in the warmer months when the ground isn’t frozen and covered in snow. In Manitoba, that’s usually from April to the end of October, depending on the year.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMPS

Paradis says customers should keep in mind some yard work will be required after your ground source heat pump is installed. The installer will fill any holes they made, then you can get started on seeding grass or completing any other landscaping.

Once the ground source heat pump is in operation, Michelle recommends leaving the temperature the same during the day and night.

“They work different than a normal furnace where you would change your temperature back during the evening. With the ground source heat pump, it’s better to leave the house consistent, and it’s way more efficient that way than it is changing the temperatures up and down like you try to do to save money with electric heating.”

– Michelle

To take part in our Heat Pump Program, start by finding an installer who is accredited by the Manitoba Geothermal Energy Alliance. They’ll help you through the application process. Once you receive approval from us, complete the project, and we’ll send you your incentive.

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All about air source heat pumps

HOW THEY CAN HELP YOU SAVE ENERGY

Looking for an energy-efficient heating and cooling system? Consider an air source heat pump. They transfer heat in the air from one place to another, using up to 30% less energy than standard electric heating systems. Air source heat pumps efficiently regulate the temperature in your home, working most efficiently when your thermostat is at a consistent temperature setting.

HOW AN AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMP WORKS

An air source heat pump typically has both an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. As air travels between the units, a compressor circulates a high-pressure liquid refrigerant that absorbs and releases heat—the same process as your refrigerator. In winter, heat is pulled from the outdoor air to warm your home. In the summer months, it works in reverse, pushing warm air outside to cool your home.

CONVENTIONAL VERSUS COLD CLIMATE

There are two kinds of air source heat pumps: conventional and cold climate. While conventional heat pumps shut off when the outdoor temperature reaches -10°C, cold climate heat pumps can operate down to -25°C, depending on the manufacturer’s specifications. For that reason, cold climate air source heat pumps are more suitable in Manitoba.

It’s important to note that when it becomes too cold outside, an auxiliary heating source is required to maintain the warmth in your home. Air source heat pump output and performance reduces significantly as the temperature decreases. Ice can build up on the outdoor unit and automatically activate a defrost cycle. This reverses the air flow, pushing warm air through the outdoor coil to melt built up ice and should take only a few minutes.

WHICH TYPE IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Air source heat pumps come in centrally ducted and ductless models. The best design for your needs depends on your existing heat source and building size.

CENTRALLY DUCTED

A centrally ducted heat pump uses forced-air ducting to distribute heating and cooling throughout your home. This allows air to reach individual rooms and heat the whole house. Your existing ducting may require modifications to support the heat pump system.

DUCTLESS

If your home uses heating from baseboards or a radiator, you likely don’t have ducting installed. In this case, a ductless air source heat pump would suit your needs.

We sometimes refer to ductless units as either mini-split or multi-split. A mini-split heat pump has one outdoor unit and one indoor head, usually mounted on the wall. To warm your entire home, you’ll need multiple indoor heads. This is called a multi- split.

A ductless air source heat pump is also a good option if part of your home requires additional heating and cooling or has an open concept floor plan. They’re also generally more affordable as they don’t require ductwork.

DUCTLESS MINI-SPLIT

DUCTLESS MULTI-SPLIT

NEXT STEPS

Before upgrading to an air source heat pump, our building science experts recommend you invest in your home’s envelope to reduce your heating and cooling needs. This can include air sealing, insulation, and windows and doors. Your contractor can help you determine if there are any improvements you should make prior to installing an air source heat pump. 

Once you’re ready to upgrade your heating system, we recommend getting quotes from at least three of our registered suppliers. The cost of installing an air source heat pump depends on the type of system, existing heating equipment, and ductwork in your home. 

An air source heat pump system is more expensive to install than a conventional heating and air conditioning system, but your annual heating costs can be lower than electric, propane, or fuel oil heating. 

We also offer rebates on select ductless and centrally ducted air source heat pumps! Be sure to check the list of eligible heat pumps and send us your application for approval before purchasing your heat pump or starting any work. 

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Working with non-profit housing organizations

HOW WE CAN HELP YOU & YOUR TENANTS SAVE

We’re here to create an energy-efficient Manitoba by providing support and services that help residents and businesses use less energy. If you’re a member of a non-profit housing organization, we can help you and your tenants save energy, money, and the environment. 

Through our Energy Efficiency Assistance Program, we work with non-profit housing organizations to help them upgrade their single-detached or semi-detached rental properties to use less energy. We’ll come to your housing organization to assess which energy-saving upgrades your units are eligible for. You could qualify for free insulation, a subsidized natural gas furnace, a boiler rebate, and free energy-saving devices such as LED light bulbs, energy-efficient showerheads, and faucet aerators. 

To ensure accessibility to the program, we don’t need to verify the income of each tenant or household! This makes it easier to implement energy-saving upgrades throughout your organization rather than on a tenant-by-tenant basis. If your non-profit housing agreement requires your tenants to income qualify, or if your mandate states that housing is intended for lower-income households, you can bypass the income qualification process. You can do this by providing your mandates, lease agreements, tenant handbooks, or proof that your tenant’s rent is below the Median Market Rents set by Manitoba Housing. 

Here’s how we helped two Manitoba non-profit housing organizations increase the energy efficiency of their rental units, allowing them and their tenants to save energy and money. 

SPRUCE WOODS HOUSING CO-OP

We recently worked with Spruce Woods Housing Co-op, a non-profit organization that provides affordable housing for low-income families and seniors. We were able to provide free insulation to help increase the efficiency and comfort of their rental units, and they can look forward to continued savings on their energy bills for years to come. 

Eva

This is what Eva Cameron, President of Board of Directors, had to say about their experience. 

“Our buildings are over 30 years old.  Over the years, we noticed that Hydro bills were becoming a burden to our members and tenants. Through the Energy Efficiency Assistance Program, we were able to make upgrades so that our members and tenants were able to save not only energy but money.   

“The process with Efficiency Manitoba was very straightforward and easy to implement. The folks at Efficiency Manitoba worked through the process with us from start to finish – making it a stress-free project.  I would recommend this program to other non-profit organizations that are looking to upgrade their insulation.” 

ANICINABE HOUSING CORPORATION

Anicinabe Housing Corporation is another recent participant in our Energy Efficiency Assistance Program. With free insulation and subsidized furnace upgrades, they’re able to save energy and money.  

“As a not-for-profit organization providing affordable housing to low- and medium-income families, money to maintain our 83 rental units is quite often very tight and spread very thin.” said Beryl Brandson, General Manager. “The Energy Efficiency Assistance Program helped us immensely when it came to upgrading the insulation and furnaces in our units.  

“The application process with Efficiency Manitoba was very easy and the staff were very helpful. They sent an energy advisor out first to inspect our units and note what upgrades were needed in each unit and everything snowballed quickly and efficiently from there. 

“I would highly recommend Efficiency Manitoba and their programs to anyone that requires energy efficient upgrades of their houses.” 

If you’re interested in participating or would like more information, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re more than happy to help. 

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Fukumoto Fitness

FLEXING STRONG SAVINGS THROUGH OUR SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

Manitoba small businesses are essential for not only building a strong local economy but also providing inviting spaces that encourage community bonds. This is especially true of Fukumoto Fitness, an award-winning fitness facility in Winnipeg’s North Kildonan neighbourhood. Owner Johnny Fukumoto recognized an opportunity to enhance his training rooms with brighter, more efficient lighting. Improved lighting would not only create a more inviting environment for his valued clients but also help him lower his energy bills. Being able to save some money each month was important to Johnny, considering the challenges COVID-19 has had on his business.  

“We’ve had to shut our gym down three times and reduce our capacity for many months,” remarked Johnny. “We have had challenges staffing our sessions due to people having to stay home, and we’ve had a hard time finding great people to hire as many have left the industry as a result.”  

At the same time, he was quick to note the resiliency of his staff.

“Our team has galvanized in tough times, and our response internally will stand out to our community. This is something we will all be proud of looking back.” 

Johnny Fukumoto

Needless to say, we were eager to support Johnny and his team. Our Small Business Program was able to help Fukumoto Fitness make energy efficiency upgrades by offering expert resources and significant financial assistance. 

THE PROJECT

We started off by providing Fukumoto Fitness with basic energy-saving devices. Technicians from Ecofitt, our contracted delivery agent for this program, installed low-flow faucet aerators and LED light bulbs in the facility for free. This helped Johnny save energy right away at no cost to his business.  

With the goal of creating a bright, inviting, and energy-efficient space, Johnny continued with further energy retrofits through our program’s Premium Upgrade, which offers businesses an incentive for energy efficient lighting upgrades. We helped him replace 145 inefficient linear fluorescent lamps with energy-saving LEDs.  

Johnny was pleased with how smooth the entire process was.

“The contractors who were on-site were very professional in the way they communicated. They did high-quality work in a short period of time.”

Johnny Fukumoto

The best part? We covered 70% of the entire project cost, so Johnny only had to pay a fraction of the total price.  More good news: he’ll get back his investment through energy bill savings in less than two years.  

THE FUTURE OF FUKUMOTO FITNESS

It’s been less than a year since Johnny received his upgrades, but he’s already noticing and appreciating the benefits of his energy-efficient space.  

“The lighting upgrades have made a big difference in the winter months, especially on overall mood and mental health,” he told us. He also acknowledged the longevity of his new lighting, so he’ll enjoy the benefits for years into the future. 

If you have a small business and you’re looking to save energy and money, we’re here to help. Take a look at our Small Business Program to learn more about the free upgrades and incentives you could receive. 

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Spring 2022 magazine

Our spring magazine is ready for you! 

Our magazines are full of advice to help you save energy, money, and the environment. You can read about our programs and offers, seasonal energy-saving tips, and other green living content. Be sure to keep it on hand so you can reference it whenever you need information about saving energy. 

Click the link below to access a digital version.

READ THE MAGAZINE

Download a digital version here.

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First Nation Communities receive funding for Energy Efficiency Advocates: Efficiency Manitoba continues making strides in energy efficiency

Efficiency Manitoba will be providing funding and support over a two-year period to enable First Nation communities to hire and train a community-based Energy Efficiency Advocate. Advocates will engage with their community and Efficiency Manitoba to create a community-led energy efficiency plan that facilitates participation in Efficiency Manitoba’s programs.

The participating First Nation communities approved to receive funding through Efficiency Manitoba’s Indigenous Community Energy Efficiency Program include the following:

  • Sioux Valley Dakota Nation
  • Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation
  • Shamattawa First Nation
  • Lake Manitoba First Nation
  • York Factory First Nation
  • Ebb & Flow First Nation
  • Red Sucker Lake
  • Lake St. Martin First Nation
  • O-Pipon-Na-Piwin Cree Nation
  • Pine Creek First Nation

The program will support economic development activities within participating First Nation communities. Energy efficiency projects will be undertaken by local businesses and contractors, which bolsters local job creation.

“Efficiency Manitoba’s Indigenous Community Energy Efficiency Program focuses on communities,” said Minister of Environment, Climate and Parks and Minister responsible for Efficiency Manitoba Jeff Wharton. “The Energy Efficiency Advocate will be employed by the First Nation, and the energy efficiency upgrades through Efficiency Manitoba’s programs will be completed by local contractors. This creates job opportunities at the community level and aids in economic recovery from the pandemic. And co-developing these energy saving initiatives with Efficiency Manitoba is another positive step on the path towards reconciliation.”

Each of these communities will receive funding for two years to support the hiring, training, and ongoing work of a local Energy Efficiency Advocate.

“The Indigenous Community Energy Efficiency Program helps to support First Nations in their efforts to reduce energy bills through energy efficiency at the community level,” said Colleen Kuruluk, Chief Executive Officer of Efficiency Manitoba. “We’re very excited to work closely with these communities and their Energy Efficiency Advocates to help them maximize energy efficiency opportunities and take steps to fulfil their goals.”

Almost half of the First Nations that applied and will receive funding through the program’s first application intake period are represented by Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc. (MKO).

“Today, I would like to proudly commend our First Nations of Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation, O-Pipon-Na-Piwin Cree Nation, Shamattawa First Nation and York Factory First Nation on being the first MKO First Nations to take advantage of Efficiency Manitoba’s Indigenous Community Energy Efficiency Program. These First Nations will be able to obtain the services of their own Energy Efficiency Advocate who will work to help make their communities more energy efficient and help community members and businesses participate in Efficiency Manitoba programs. I am encouraged by the participation of these MKO First Nations in the program and I am certain more communities will engage in energy efficiency programming as the engagement work of Efficiency Manitoba continues,” stated MKO Grand Chief Garrison Settee.

Communities apply for funding during specified application intake periods. The communities listed above were selected through the Indigenous Community Energy Efficiency Program’s first intake period. Efficiency Manitoba plans to open future application intervals annually, enabling even more First Nation communities to participate and receive funding for Energy Efficiency Advocates.

Learn more about Efficiency Manitoba’s Indigenous Community Energy Efficiency Program.

For more information, please email us at media@efficiencyMB.ca.

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Committing to more sustainable communities: Efficiency Manitoba announces funding and support for new Community Energy Efficiency Advocates

Efficiency Manitoba’s Community Energy Efficiency Program will be providing funding and support over a two-year period to enable four Manitoba municipalities to hire and train an Energy Efficiency Advocate. These Energy Efficiency Advocates will create plans to help their communities lower their energy consumption and bills by participating in Efficiency Manitoba’s programs.

The following municipalities will be receiving support through Efficiency Manitoba’s Community Energy Efficiency Program:

  • Hamiota Municipality
  • Village of St-Pierre-Jolys
  • Municipality of De Salaberry
  • Municipality of Lorne (Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes)

“Energy Efficiency Advocates foster a culture of conservation and sustainability through energy efficiency in their communities,” said Minister of Environment, Climate and Parks and Minister responsible for Efficiency Manitoba Jeff Wharton. “Efficiency Manitoba’s Community Energy Efficiency Program demonstrably promotes local economic development. Advocates work closely with local businesses, residents, and municipal governments to help reduce energy consumption and associated bills, decrease greenhouse gas emissions, and create healthier and more efficient spaces in which Manitobans can live, work, and play.”

In addition to supporting the work of the Energy Efficiency Advocate, Efficiency Manitoba will provide rebates and technical expertise to support their efforts.

“We’re pleased to provide funding to municipalities to offset a substantial portion of an Energy Efficiency Advocate’s salary,” said Colleen Kuruluk, Chief Executive Officer of Efficiency Manitoba. “By providing this support, we’re removing some of the financial constraints that communities may face when attempting to set energy efficiency goals and develop an action plan to achieve them. We also provide the advocate with training, ongoing support, and direct access to our rebates and programs, further helping communities reach their energy efficiency goals.”

Building on existing energy efficiency and environmental sustainability efforts, Hamiota Municipality’s Energy Efficiency Advocate will serve their 1,250 residents by helping them make energy-efficient choices and become a greener community as a result.

“We are excited to participate in this program,” said Hamiota Municipality Mayor Larry Oakden. “Not only does it benefit our citizens, but it contributes to the success of Efficiency Manitoba and reduces excess energy usage.”

A joint application for the Village of St-Pierre-Jolys, Municipality of De Salaberry, and Municipality of Lorne (Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes) was submitted by Eco-West Canada. Supporting these municipalities, Eco-West will identify energy efficiency opportunities, engage with community groups and residents to promote sustainability efforts, and help coordinate upgrades that will benefit over 5,000 residents.

“Municipalities influence over half of all energy use and greenhouse gas emissions in Canada and need to be engaged and mobilized in order for Canada and Manitoba to meet their emission reduction targets. However, communities consistently report to us that their lack of capacity in the areas of personnel, expertise, budget, and access to funding are the main barriers to implementing their community energy efficiency plans,” said Dany Robidoux, Executive Director of Eco-West Canada.

“Through this partnership with Efficiency Manitoba, our goal is to ensure that our municipal partners, as well as their local businesses and residents, can leverage Efficiency Manitoba programs along with accessing additional building retrofit funding available through Federal funding opportunities.”

Creating and executing energy efficiency plans within Manitoba communities is a vital step in not only contributing to Efficiency Manitoba’s electricity and natural gas savings targets, but also in fostering green, robust, and thriving local economies.

Learn more about Efficiency Manitoba’s Community Energy Efficiency Program.

For more information, please email us at media@efficiencyMB.ca.

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Go green for spring break

FUN ACTIVITIES FOR YOU & YOUR KIDS

Spring break in Manitoba is often a slush-filled holiday. With near record-breaking snowfalls this past winter, it’s not surprising that this year is no exception. But don’t let it get you down – we put together a list of activities that you can enjoy with your kids indoors and outside this spring break. Maybe we’ll even be lucky enough to get some sunny and warm weather!   

START YOUR SEEDS

It’s about time to start your seeds for this year’s gardening season, so why not make it a family activity? Many stores offer affordable seed starter trays so your kids can plant their own. Not only will they get a first-hand lesson on planting, it’s something they can enjoy for weeks to come as the seeds start to blossom. When the warm weather is here to stay, you can spend more quality time planting and caring for them outside. 

MAKE RECYCLED ART 

You don’t always need to run to the store and gather new art supplies to have a fun day of crafting. Look around your home for items that you no longer use to get creative and save some money! Your kids will have a blast and repurposing materials is an environmentally-friendly bonus we can feel good about. If you need some ideas, check out the Artful Parent.  

VENTURE TO THE GREAT OUTDOORS

We understand it can be a little mucky outside this time of year, but we shouldn’t let a bit of slush prevent us from enjoying the outdoors. Take advantage of what our province has to offer and go for a hike in one of our many provincial parks or visit the playgrounds in your community. Enjoying the fresh air and vitamin D will put a smile on everyone’s face. 

BUILD AN INSECT HOUSE

Insects are beneficial to our environment, so embrace the bugs and craft them a home of their own! There are different varieties of houses you can build to attract different insects, so if you prefer bees to butterflies or vice versa, be sure to look online to see which type of home is best for the insect you’d like to attract. 

While we’re on the topic, don’t forget to leave the outdoor spring cleaning until after we’ve had at least seven consecutive days of plus 10° C weather. Many beneficial insects find shelter in the leaves and grass. By removing it too soon, you could be disrupting their habitat. 

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