Who Visits The Woods + McCarthy Update
OSEAN volunteer Tyler scanning a QR code tied to a tree at a crossroads in McCarthy Woods, South Ottawa.
It has been only 3 weeks since we put up the first batch of QR codes and we are blown away by the numbers! 121 people were curious enough or care enough about the woods to take out their phone in the cold and scan a code! When we were out there putting up the signs, we spoke to dog walkers, single individuals, and families with small children and heard about how important these woods are to everyone. Most of the people we spoke with told us that they visit McCarthy Woods every single day! This is clear in the paths; despite the snowy winter, the trails in the woods are firm and clear.
A pie chart showing that out of 121 respondents, only 26 were repeat. This combined with the enthusiasm of every person talked to indicates that asking people to scan the code every time might not be most effective strategy.
We’re also over the moon about those who have offered their contact information to learn more. We will be following up with everyone soon!
The first phase of WVTW will extend until the ground has thawed, when we hope to make these signs smaller, having their attention-drawing come more from being natural points of interest / beauty rather than being a somewhat jarring QR code in the middle of this beautiful nature. (I’m allowed to say that, I designed the posters!)
Along with the data/QR side, OSEAN is reaching out and building exciting connections with local bodies like biology departments for post-secondary education institutions, local environmental and nature entities, as well as neighbours and individuals. We’re organizing the case for McCarthy Woods in a sense, while keeping and building community!
Upcoming events around and featuring McCarthy Woods include Earth Day (April 18th), Jane’s Walk (May 2nd), Get Growing Hunt Club (May 16th), and Pollinator Appreciation Day (June 20th). We will have events for both adults and children at each of these events.
For anyone interested in volunteering with any of these events or OSEAN in general, please reach out and you are invited to our March 30th meeting.