Hay Swamp Stewards are a group of volunteers who meet regularily to preserve and enhance habitat in Hay Swamp, a provincially significant wetland complex located just outside Exeter, Ontario. We are supported in our activities by the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA).

Everyone is welcome! No previous experience, knowledge, training or tools are required to participate. Volunteers work at their own pace and only engage in activities they feel completely comfortable completing. Time spent volunteering with Hay Swamp Stewards can be put towards Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) requirements.

What we do

  • Plant Natives
  • Manage Invasives
  • Garbage Cleanup
  • Ecological Monitoring

2026 Session Schedule

Sessions are held every second Wednesday from May 20 to October 21. We meet on the west side of Parr Line, just a bit north of MacDonald Rd. at 5:30PM. Sessions end by 7:30PM. Volunteers may attend as many or as few sessions during the season as they like.

  • May sessions: May 20
  • June sessions: Jun 3, 17
  • July sessions: Jul 1, 15, 29
  • August sessions: Aug 12, 26
  • September sessions: Sep 9, 23
  • October sessions: Oct 7, 21

Special Event:
Tree Planting on May 9

Please join us on Saturday, May 9 at 10:00AM to help plant almost 400 native trees in Hay Swamp! Species will include tulip tree, red oak, bur oak, white pine and others. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a positive contribution to this beautiful natural area and to experience Hay Swamp Stewards for yourself.

Learn More

Interested in joining Hay Swamp Stewards?

Just send an email to volunteers@hayswampstewards.ca so we know to expect you and can send along useful information from time to time. After that you're welcome to attend as many or as few sessions during the season as you like. If possible, please complete the Volunteer Form and Media Release linked to below and attach them to your email. If you don't have the ability to do this, no worries, you can complete the paper work on site at the start of your first session.

Download Volunteer Form Download Media Release

Not sure if stewardship is right for you? We're happy to answer any questions you might have. Just reach out to volunteers@hayswampstewards.ca and we'll reply as quickly as possible.