Discover the wonders of water-wise gardening
This summer, visit our Water Conservation Garden at 1211 John Counter Blvd. and discover how to create a garden that makes every raindrop count. Our garden showcases a variety of vibrant plants that require less water to thrive, all while attracting pollinators like bees, butterflies and birds.
Stop by and discover how water-wise gardening can prevent runoff pollution, reduce flooding, and lower carbon emissions, all while transforming your outdoor space into a pollinator paradise.
Discover the benefits of water-efficient gardening
Many gardeners know that adding compost to gardens and leaving grass clippings on the lawn improves water retention and reduces the demand for treated water. Choosing the right plants can also help make your garden more self-sufficient and sustainable, attracting pollinators like bees, butterflies, and birds.
Visiting our garden is a free and easy way to see a variety of plants and landscaping techniques that you can use in your own space. Create a beautiful, low-maintenance outdoor space that relies more on what nature provides and less on treated water.
Water Conservation Garden tours
This year, we're excited to offer guided tours that will allow you to explore our garden in a more in-depth and enriching way. Our guides will take you through the various aspects of the garden, highlighting practical strategies you can apply to reduce water use, along with seasonal blooms and key plants that contribute to our conservation goals.
Plus! Take home your own pack of wildflower seeds as a thank-you for visiting.
Join us for guided tours every Monday to Friday at 10:30 a.m. Can’t make it? Explore the garden at your leisure anytime during daylight hours.
Free children's activities
Bring the kids and enjoy free educational activities designed to spark creativity and promote sustainability.
Available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays:
Garden colouring sheets
Learn about gardening, pollinator plants and sustainability, all while enjoying creative colouring.
Button Making
Create your own custom button! Learn all about conservation and take home a unique, handmade souvenir from your visit to the garden.
Available on Tuesdays and Thursdays:
Pollinator Water Dishes
Discover the vital role of pollinators and learn what they need to thrive! Design, decorate, and take home your own pollinator water dish to help our pollinator pals!
We'll provide all the supplies you need! Just remember to wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty – things might get a little messy!
Tours run Monday to Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., and activities run from 11 a.m. until 12 p.m.
No reservation is required! You can walk in.
Free parking is available on the south side of the building.
Questions? Contact our conservation team at conservation@utilitieskingston.com or call us at 613-546-1181, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and ask to speak with ‘conservation.’
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Explore our Water Conservation Garden page, a comprehensive online resource for gardeners. Here, you can discover a diverse selection of over 100 plants ideal for water-wise gardens and valuable tips on attracting pollinators. Creating a habitat for these vital species is essential for supporting local ecosystems and preserving biodiversity.