Strolling through the oasis nextdoor
UTM Moves hosted its first nature walk last week, giving students the chance to smell the autumn air (and receive a credit!)
If you’re reading this in between darting from class to class, allow me to introduce you to some rather unexpected fellow “runners”: the Salmon in the Credit River. That’s right — with just a brief walk to Erindale Park, you’ll be surrounded by the most gorgeous Fall scenery and have a chance at witnessing this species’ seasonal migration. And, while also captivating as a standalone experience to observe, on October 3rd, UTM Moves, the Riverwood Conservancy team, and Hart House collaborated to provide our Eagle community with a refreshing, welcoming, and eye-opening nature walk experience.
The group met at the RAWC and walked together to Erindale Park, through a nearly direct and seamless pathway. Under the shining sun and surrounded by vibrant trees when entering the park, the positive impact of this experience could already be seen. Making its way to the pavilion, the group met with a Riverwood team representative who thoroughly and insightfully contextualized the migration, a key takeaway being its unfortunate roots and their continuing effects today. More specifically, the Atlantic salmon of this area had faced numerous pressures and challenges from colonization, such as through pollutants making their way into the water from this activity. This was to the extent that, at one point, the Atlantic salmon population had become extirpated. The weight of this can be seen through how, for example, in Indigenous stories originating before this period, these fish are detailed to to be in large numbers. This was a profound lesson to learn, shaping our experience of nature to be of not only awe, but mindfulness and awareness. The group then began the observation aspect of the walk, following the facilitator’s insights on ways to identify potential salmon areas. This was a deeply engaging, mindful experience, as the group observed the delicate flow of the water and surrounding nature.
The walk was deeply meaningful and fulfilling, to say the least — and, luckily, there are more along the way. These events are aimed at fostering community, tackling inequities, and promoting wellbeing, especially in underrepresented communities in these spaces. The UTM Walks schedule for upcoming events, such as the Guided Fall Photography event happening on October 20th, can be found on the website. And, as an added benefit, if you attend 4 of these events and complete the corresponding requirements, you qualify for CCR credit!
Having said this, however, it can feel difficult to carve out time for new experiences in one’s busy university schedule—especially given midterm season. Yet, in these stretches, perhaps making time for even part of such an event can be the inspiration, refreshment, and motivation-builder that will help you feel and do your best. I hope you are inspired to step outside of your comfort zone and make the most of these exciting opportunities — and, hey, you may get to see The Salmon Run on the way!
