Celebrating 11 Years of Turtle Hatchling Releases at Morrison Dam Conservation Area
This summer marks the 11th anniversary of the popular Turtle Hatchling Release event at Morrison Dam Conservation Area, just east of Exeter. Mark your calendars and join the Huron Stewardship Council and the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority on Thursday, September 3, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 71108 Morrison Line for an unforgettable afternoon dedicated to Ontario’s native turtles.
Families, nature lovers, and community members of all ages are invited to this free, drop-in celebration filled with hands-on learning and the heartwarming sight of tiny turtle hatchlings taking their very first steps into the wild. Expect live reptiles on display, interactive educational exhibits, family-friendly activities, and turtle-themed merchandise available for purchase. Every element of the day is designed to inspire appreciation for these remarkable reptiles and highlight the importance of local conservation efforts.
What to Expect
This beloved annual event brings together the community to witness and support turtle conservation in action. Attendees can:
- Watch the release of healthy hatchlings into their natural habitat at Morrison Dam
- Enjoy engaging, kid-friendly activities and educational displays
- Meet live turtles (under professional supervision)
- Shop for fun turtle-themed souvenirs while supporting conservation
Registration via Eventbrite is strongly encouraged to help organizers manage attendance – https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1994518184581. While the event is free, donations are gratefully accepted — every contribution directly supports turtle conservation initiatives.
How the Event Works
Each year, trained professionals working under strict permits carefully collect turtle eggs from vulnerable nesting sites across the region. These eggs are then incubated in a controlled environment, increasing the odds that the hatchlings will survive. Once they emerge, the young turtles are released at Morrison Dam Conservation Area, a safe and suitable habitat that helps bolster local populations.
Without this dedicated intervention, many nests would fall victim to predators, flooding, road mortality, or habitat loss. The annual release event not only gives these hatchlings a fighting chance but also raises vital awareness about the ecological role turtles play as indicators of healthy wetlands and ecosystems.
The Huron Stewardship Council and Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority, along with local partners, are proud to continue this important work. Whether you’re a returning supporter or attending for the first time, this is a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature, learn something new, and make a positive impact.
Date: Thursday, September 3, 2026
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Morrison Dam Conservation Area, 71108 Morrison Line (just east of Exeter)
Come celebrate 11 years of conservation success — and help give the next generation of turtles a strong start! We look forward to seeing you there.