The Pine Project

Sometimes the most meaningful discoveries happen when we slow down, pay attention, and explore alongside others. 🌱✨ One Soaring Hawks participant recently reflected on a day of curiosity and connection along the Humber River:

"Last weekend, I joined some fellow nature enthusiasts in King’s Mill Park to spend time with the plants, birds, and other creatures along the shores of Niwa'ah Onega'gaih'ih, “little thundering waters”, the Humber River.

After a period of quiet listening, observing, and noticing what drew our attention, we shared our curiosities and discovered a few unfolding nature mysteries. For me, it was a low-growing, velvety plant I had never noticed before, with toothed leaves resembling parsnip, growing along the constantly shifting riverbank. For another participant, it was a massive cottonwood tree whose trunk had been stripped of bark in places. The tree appeared to be healing itself again and again from some repeated assault.

Closer inspection revealed fresh chew marks low on the trunk, cut with remarkable precision. Sap, or perhaps water mixed with sap, dripped slowly from the wounds, providing a snack for a cluster of appreciative ants nearby.

I never would have thought to look twice at this fascinating web of relationships had I not been with such curious companions. I left the day feeling grateful for the opportunity to learn alongside others and to spend intentional time with the land and the infinite relationships of which we are a part."

At Soaring Hawks, nature becomes both teacher and gathering place. Through shared inquiry, observation, and time on the land, participants deepen their connection to nature, themselves, and their community. 🌎🌳

Love birds, nature, and learning outdoors? Join us for our Community Bird Wander this weekend! Together, we’ll tune into the sights and sounds of our feathered neighbours, learning to recognize birds by their calls, size, shape, and behaviour.

Saturday, May 30th, 10am - 12pm
King's Mill Park
$30/pp
Learn more and register: https://pineproject.org/program/community-bird-wander/

And who knows… we may even spot the American Woodcock, also known as the Timberdoodle! These quirky “Sandpipers of the forest” are often found near open meadows and fields in the springtime. If you’ve been out birding lately, you may have already heard their distinctive calls or witnessed their fascinating sky dance displays.

Support your child in exploring, growing, and connecting with nature next school year! Outdoor School 2026/27 registration is now open and we would love to welcome your family.🌳

At Outdoor School, experienced mentors guide consistent time outdoors that helps young people build confidence, resilience, skills, and meaningful connection.

Whether you’re looking for a weekly or monthly programs, after-school adventures, weekend programs, or immersive overnight experiences, Pine offers school-year programs for ages 0–16 across Toronto and beyond.

Spots fill quickly! Check out the full schedule and program webpages for more information on timing, locations, pricing, registration portal and more on our website —https://pineproject.org/programs/school-year-programs/