Author: Ben Russell
Island Nature Trust Celebrates ‘Flitt’s Call’ Book Launch: A Tale of Resilience and Environmental Connection
Island Nature Trust (INT) announces the release of “Flitt’s Call,” a captivating children’s book authored by Kara Griffin and illustrated by local artist Shawn Larson, published by Acorn Press. This tale of resilience, togetherness, and environmental consciousness is poised to resonate deeply with readers of all ages, encouraging a profound connection to nature amidst today’s challenges.
“Flitt’s Call” follows the journey of Flitt, a steadfast bank swallow, as he confronts changes in his habitat and rallies for the planet’s well-being. Griffin, the author, shares, “The story of Flitt reflects the interconnectedness we all share with nature. It’s a call to our hearts and a reminder that our actions reverberate through the entire ecosystem.”
The book, crafted in collaboration with INT, aims to foster eco-literacy among young readers, instilling a love for nature and a sense of responsibility toward its conservation. As part of this initiative, INT is partnering with Griffin and Larson to distribute the book and an Activity Guide to all grade two students in the Public Schools Branch in 2023/24.
“This book is an extension of my love for nature. I hope it inspires people to fall in love with the natural world and, from that place of love, be moved to protect it,” Griffin emphasizes.
The official launch event for “Flitt’s Call” will be held at the Haviland Club on November 25th, featuring a reading by Kara Griffin, providing insight into the inspiration behind her work. The event marks the culmination of collaborative efforts supported by the PEI Alliance for Mental Well-Being and Environment and Climate Change Canada.
“In crafting ‘Flitt’s Call,’ I aimed to seamlessly blend scientific facts into a heartfelt story. It’s been a unique and complex creative process, delving into the world of bank swallows and learning more about them with each step,” Griffin reveals.
The book’s message is a plea for conservation, urging readers to protect the natural world. Griffin’s commitment is reflected in her pledge to contribute author royalties to INT for the next five years, showcasing the convergence of art and action in fostering meaningful change.
“Flitt’s Call” stands as a testament to passionate minds weaving art, narrative, and conservation into a tapestry of hope. As the pages of this enchanting tale turn, they echo the resilient spirit of a little bird calling for us to protect our shared home—our planet.
Author of ‘Flitt’s Call’, Kara Griffin (middle), with Island Nature Trust’s Kayle Laverty (left) and Shannon Mader (right) at Bookmark in Charlottetown.
“My work with species-at-risk is incredibly meaningful to me. I feel a deep connection to these birds and the coastline of PEI. I want others to feel that same connection,” shares Shannon Mader, INT Species at Risk Manager. “The data and facts that deal with day in and day out don’t elicit those feelings. Collaborating with Kara and Shawn this past year has been a delight; their ability to weave poignant narratives and visuals allowed us to communicate those heartfelt connections in ‘Flitt’s Call.’ “
Join Island Nature Trust at the Haviland Club on November 25th at 10 am for the official book launch and a special reading by the author, Kara Griffin!
For book purchases, “Flitt’s Call” is available through Nimbus, Bookmark PEI, or Indigo/Coles.
This project was made possible through the generous funding support of the PEI Alliance for Mental Well-Being and Environment and Climate Change Canada.
About
Island Nature Trust is a membership-based, non-government, Canadian charity dedicated to land conservation in Prince Edward Island since 1979.
In a race against time, our mission is to protect and steward forever a network of natural areas and wildlife habitats across PEI and bring together those who care about protecting PEI’s natural legacy for future generations.
We are a key provider of technical, science-based knowledge on land stewardship and wildlife in PEI for landowners, governments, and partner environmental groups.
We provide mentorship and employment opportunities to people committed to land stewardship, conservation research and wildlife monitoring who will continue building on the long tradition of Island Nature Trust as the premiere land trust on the Island.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/islandnaturetrust
Instagram: www.instagram.com/islandnaturetrust/
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/island-nature-trust
Media Contact
Island Nature Trust
Ben Russell – Communications Manager
902-892-7513
ben@islandnaturetrust.ca
Ready to Be Creative for Nature?
Whether you’re an artist, an entrepreneur, an event planner, or simply someone with a flair for creativity, ‘Be Creative for Nature’ gives you the resources you need to make a difference. Your unique approach to fundraising and creative interpretation can leave an indelible mark on the island’s conservation efforts.
Be A Champion For Nature
We all share a unique connection to nature, and our supporters express it in diverse ways.
They are our Champions of Nature, coming from various backgrounds – from hands-on volunteers to
digital advocates, creative fundraisers, and generous donors.
What kind of Champion for Nature are you?
Are you passionate about hands-on conservation efforts or getting directly involved in nature protection?
Would you like to support nature through financial contributions or potentially donating land for long-term protection?
Are you an artisan or entrepreneur who can use their creativity to raise funds for conservation in PEI?
Get in touch
Connect with our team
Sign up
To Our
Newsletter
Be the first to know about
future events, news and
campaigns.
Follow Us
#givingbacktonature
Stewardship At Home: Harvesting and Starting the Seeds of Life
As a direct impact of post-tropical storm Fiona, many of Prince Edward Island’s seed-bearing trees are laying horizontally; fortunately, word is spreading about the benefits of natural decomposition of those trees. Although it will take time for the trees to decompose and make room for new growth, this process will increase the quality of nutrients that are available in the soil. However, for the time being it seems as though many of the trees that have fallen are still rooted to some degree and they are not ready to stop providing. As you walk through the woods you may notice that the downed trees are persisting and continuing to bear flowers that will later become seeds. This makes the seeds of the larger, mature trees more accessible and gives landowners the opportunity to try their hand at harvesting and starting their own native species seed bank. Here are a few quick tips, tricks, and notes to keep in mind if you wish to start growing your own native trees:
Read more
The Judson Family: Honoring their vital land donation for coastal headland conservation
Island Nature Trust (INT) relies significantly on land donations in protecting the natural landscapes of Prince Edward Island, particularly when these donations connect with existing protected areas. While financial support plays a crucial role in the Island Nature Trust’s mission to safeguard the island’s natural heritage, the donation of land stands as a testament and lasting commitment from individuals and families to protect the island’s ecological diversity.
We are excited to spotlight the remarkable generosity of the Judson family, who donated the 117-acre Judson Salt Marsh Natural Area in Alexandra. This donation aims to expand the already protected Crown Point headland, known as the 182-acre Crown Point – Wjikijek Natural Area. The latter faces threats of development due to its proximity to Charlottetown and Stratford, making it a focal point in recent conservation endeavors by the Island Nature Trust.
Read moreIsland Nature Trust Celebrates Pivotal Donation from the Judson Family
Island Nature Trust (INT) proudly announces an expansion to its 182-acre protected Crown Point – Wjikijek Natural Area in Alexandra with the generous contribution of the 117-acre Judson Salt Marsh Natural Area. This remarkable gift from the Judson family is a testament to their commitment to safeguarding an area of Prince Edward Island that’s been loved and cared for by their family for generations.
Corridors of Connectivity: The Importance of Expanding Protected Areas
Island Nature Trust’s mission depends on the acquisition of interconnected natural areas, protecting in perpetuity the landscapes that define Prince Edward Island. These sanctuaries offer shelter and habitat to a myriad of species while ensuring the sustenance of our natural resources, benefiting the Island’s entire community. The initial acquisition of Crown Point – Wjikijek Natural Area Crown Point headland in March 2020 was made possible through collective support from Environment Canada, the MapleCross Fund, and approximately 100 individual donations from Islanders, illustrating the power of collective action. Its protection was of paramount importance due to the development pressures of being near Charlottetown and Stratford. The rapid urban expansion in these areas highlights the urgency of securing and preserving natural habitats like Crown Point.
The Judson Family: A Pivotal Contribution
The Judson family’s decision to donate their land adds a new chapter to the Crown Point conservation story. Island Nature Trust approached the Judson family, recognizing that expanding the protection of this headland aligns with its mission to create a mosaic of interconnected natural areas, ensuring the ecological health of the Island’s landscapes and the well-being of its diverse species.
Island Nature Trust Executive Director, Bianca McGregor, stated, “The Judson’s legacy of keeping this land in their family and managing it over generations with intent to maintain it as a natural area exemplifies the spirit of Island Nature Trust’s mission. We’re honoured that the family has decided to allow us to continue this very important work. Joining this donated land with the previously purchased adjacent land, will ensure the continued natural integrity of the ecosystems and species that call Crown Point home.”
William Judson, representing the Judson family, shared his sentiments, saying, “My entire family has actively worked to protect the land and keep it in its natural state. When we were approached by INT, we decided the timing was right for us to donate the land to ensure its continued protection.”
A Lifelong Connection
William Judson continued, “My father and mother, Donald and Virginia Judson, purchased this land as part of the family farm in the late 1960s. We spent many years, while growing up, experiencing what the marsh had to offer – picking cranberries, hunting ducks in the fall, and playing in the marsh. We would follow the fox and racoon runs, catch minnows in buckets, and dissect owl pellets. We knew where every water hole was located, and we watched the changes in the marsh year after year.”
Left: Judson Salt Marsh Natural Area shown in Green. Other INT natural areas shown in orange. Salt marsh is pink, freshwater marsh is light blue, bog is brown, and sand dunes are yellow-tan.
A Landmark in Alexandra
Crown Point, located southeast of Stratford, PEI, is a relatively undeveloped coastal headland. It serves as a natural barrier protecting the rural communities of Alexandra and Pownal from the forces of storm surges, winds, and high spring tides. The salt marsh on the property is part of a wider band of coastal salt marsh that stretches along Hillsborough Bay from Stratford to Orwell.
A Cultural and Ecological Gem
Crown Point is not only an ecological treasure but also holds significant cultural history for both the Mi’kmaq and the Acadians. The area is believed to contain Mi’kmaq and Acadian burial grounds, along with evidence of Mi’kmaq camps and French battlegrounds.
Diverse Ecosystems
The coastal forest on the Judson Salt Marsh Natural Area boasts mixed wood stands, including white spruce, trembling aspen, white birch, red maple, eastern larch, and American beech. A 3-acre island within Jardine’s Bay hosts a similar forest structure, with older hardwoods and established pit and mound topography. The presence of alder swamp along the salt marsh provides habitat for the federally at-risk Canada warbler.
L-R: Donors Tara, Oliver, Bridget, Isaac, William and Elliot Judson at the Judson Salt Marsh Natural Area in Alexandra
A Gift to Future Generations
The Judson family’s decision to donate this ecologically significant land highlights their deep connection to the Island’s history and natural heritage. Their donation will ensure the continued protection of Crown Point’s unique ecosystems.
William Judson reiterated, “This land has been part of my family’s life for generations, even before my parents purchased it in the 1960s. The Judson family has lived in the area for over 200 years. Stories have been passed down from generation to generation about the marsh and the families that made use of it.”
Land donations like the one from the Judson family secure the natural heritage of Prince Edward Island for generations to come. While financial contributions are critical for Island Nature Trust to continue its work, donating land is a powerful symbol of commitment to conservation. It is a message that echoes through time, safeguarding the Island’s ecological diversity.
The Judson family’s act of protecting their land ensures the continuity of the natural tapestry at Crown Point, and their contribution is an inspiration for all of us to continue protecting the precious environments that make Prince Edward Island unique.
Ecological Gifts Program
A portion of this project was donated to the Island Nature Trust under the Government of Canada’s Ecological Gifts Program. This program provides enhanced tax incentives for individuals or corporations who donate ecologically significant land.
To learn more about the Ecological Gifts Program, please visit http://www.ec.gc.ca/pde-egp/.
Moreover, donating land to INT can also have financial benefits. We provide a charitable tax receipt for the donated fair market value and can help landowners apply to the Federal Ecological Gifts program for capital gains tax relief, making it easier to donate land to Island Nature Trust in support of its vital work.
Learn more about the tax benefits to donating land here https://islandnaturetrust.ca/tax-benefits-to-donating-land-for-conservation/
About
Island Nature Trust is a membership-based, non-government, Canadian charity dedicated to land conservation in Prince Edward Island since 1979.
In a race against time, our mission is to preserve and steward forever a network of natural areas and wildlife habitats across PEI and bring together those who care about preserving PEI’s natural legacy for future generations.
We are a key provider of technical, science-based knowledge on land stewardship and wildlife in PEI for landowners, governments, and partner environmental groups.
We provide mentorship and employment opportunities to people committed to land stewardship, conservation research and wildlife monitoring who will continue building on the long tradition of Island Nature Trust as the premiere land trust on the Island.
Visit our website: www.islandnaturetrust.ca
Facebook: www.facebook.com/islandnaturetrust
Instagram: www.instagram.com/islandnaturetrust/
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/island-nature-trust
Media Contact
Island Nature Trust
Ben Russell – Communications Manager
902-892-7513
ben@islandnaturetrust.ca
