Has your family lived in Lanark County for generations? Or, have you just recently moved here? In either case, here is the definitive guide to the natural environment. Not only does this book introduce you to the forests and wetlands of the county, but it will guide you to many of the natural areas, and it will introduce some of the wild species that live here. The book has 20 orignal maps, as well as stunning line drawings of native wildlife. It is the ideal gift for familly members, friends and neighbours — anyone who appreciates the pleasures of living in the county.


The guide has won several awards including, the W.E. Saunders Natural History Award from Ontario Nature, the Award of Excellence—Heritage and Ecology from Lanark County, and a Champion for Nature Award from the Mississippi Valley Field Naturalists.
The book was originally published in 1999, and has since been updated on several occaisons, most recently in 2021, with a fresh cover and simpler title. The pandemic of 2020 has increased people’s interest in the outdoors, while making it harder to shop. So, starting in spring 2021, the guide is now available for delivery direct to your front door. Order here to be ready for your outdoor adventures.


You can also shop locally and purchase the book from local stores including Mill Street Books in the historic town of Almonte, or from Spark books & curios in downtown Perth. You can also buy the book at monthly meetings of the Mississippi Valley Field Naturalists.
So get ready to meet some of the wild places and wild creatures of Lanark County, and start planning your summer outings now!
The book is supplemented by further online information:
A dedicated web page on the natural environment of Lanark County.
A video introduction to the natural environment of Lanark County.
A video introduction to the wetlands of Lanark County
A video introduction to natural heritage planning in Lanark County
A report documenting the forests that existed before European settlement.
An article on the effects of herbivores on local forests.
A chart showing the different species of frogs you can hear during the spring and summer.
A list of priority natural areas that need protection in Lanark County.
And, introductions to wild places including the Innisville Wetlands, the Christie Lake Fire Barrens, the Purdon Fen, the Carleton Place Hackberry forest.