Events

The Friends is run by a volunteer board of directors who all have a particular interest in and dedication to the park. The Friends are always looking for new membership in both the organization as a whole, and in the board of directors.

The Friends were recognized by Ontario Parks for their outstanding contribution to Rondeau. At a meeting in London, Zone Manager Peter Sturdy, and Gred Maude, presented Ric and Anne McArthur with a plaque recognizing this valuable contribution. The plaque was signed by the Honourable Hilary M. Weston, Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable Michael D. Harris, Premier of Ontario and the Honourable John C. Snobelen, Minister of Natural Resources

Activities

The Friends are involved in several activities to increase public awareness and participation in park programs as well as to expand and broaden the park’s message through increased availability of interpretive materials and scientific research.

These activities are accomplished by:

• Development and printing of park orientated publications.

• Sale of park oriented publications and related gift or souvenir items through the Friends Bookstore located in the Park’s Visitor Centre.

• Funding of projects and special events to promote the Park and its resources and facilities.

• Acquiring funds through donations, memberships, bookstore sales and fund raising events.

Achievements

The Friends sponsor and operate two major events annually; the Wings of Spring in March for the spring migration of Tundra Swans and other waterfowl, and Birders Breakfast in May for the large number of birdwatchers during the songbird migration. In 2001, the Friends started another major annual event - the Monarch Butterfly Migration Festival, which continues to be a huge success.

The Friends have provided a great deal of equipment to the park for the Natural Heritage Education Program including canoes and paddles, an all terrain wheelchair, a computer, bird feed, birding and nature guides in English and French, nursery stock greenhouse supplies and mist nets for bird banding. 

In addition, funds were provided for a nature garden at the Visitor Centre. This area is located behind glass so birds and other wildlife can be viewed without being disturbed.

Ric McArthur - President
Anne McArthur - Treasurer
Ruth McNeil - Membership Coordinator
Jim Ondrovcik - Vice President
Anne Ondrovcik - Secretary
Sandy McLean - Director at large
Joann McLean - Director at large
Doug Barnett -Director at large
Nan Barnett -Director at large
Carolyn Powers - Director at large
Jerry Hind - Past President

2010 Board Meetings - all members are welcome

Feb 21 10AM - Visitor Centre
April 11 10AM - Visitor Centre
June 13, 10AM - Visitor Centre
Aug 15 1.00PM - Visitor Centre - Annual General Meeting Sept 12 10AM - Visitor Centre
Oct 17 10AM - Visitor Centre
Nov 14 10AM - Visitor Centre