Deputy Mayor Helps Kick Off 95th Annual Scouts Apple Day

Ootes will be presented with a “nature-friendly” apple at a Scouts/World Wildlife Fund Canada display booth in the Square at 9:00 am by a local member of the Beavers. The apples have been grown with fewer pesticides, according to a protocol developed by WWF-Canada and innovative Ontario apple growers. Scouts in the GTR will carry these apples during their annual fundraiser, October 18-20.

“We’re really pleased to present Mr. Ootes with a nature-friendly apple,” said Tom Gifford, a volunteer Scout Leader and Chair of Toronto’s Apple Day. “The Scouting experience emphasizes a respect for nature, so we’re happy to be offering apples to the public that have been grown with fewer pesticides.”

“This event is also an opportunity for Scouts to learn about the impact of pesticides on wildlife,” said WWF-Canada’s Lori Stahlbrand. “World Wildlife Fund Canada has created a game for Scouts that introduces them to how ecosystems work.”

From 9:00 am to 1:00 pm on October 18, a team of Scouts will staff a display at Nathan Phillips Square, accompanied by a 10-foot inflatable Scouts Canada apple, and a giant panda (the symbol of WWF-Canada). Representatives from Scouts Canada and WWF-Canada will be available for interviews during this time and can assist with photo opportunities.

Beginning Friday afternoon, thousands of Scouting members will be in malls and on city streets presenting nature-friendly apples to the community in appreciation for past donations, and continued support. All funds raised will go to Scouting youth to reduce the cost of camping, field trips and program expenses. The Norfolk Fruit Growers Association will supply the nature-friendly apples, grown using techniques that reduce the need for pesticides. These techniques include plant nutrition, careful monitoring and attracting beneficial organisms that control pests. Pesticides are used only when absolutely necessary. The project grew out of a concern about the growing evidence of the harmful impacts of pesticides on wildlife and the environment.

Since 1907, Scouting has provided a variety of fun and exciting programs to help girls and boys reach their full potential. Approximately 50% of all Canadians have participated in Scouting during their lives, and more than 150,000 Canadians belong to the organization.

WWF-Canada, a leading conservation organization, is supported by more than 60,000 members.