Bonnie and Clyde McGrath have been volunteering for the Nova Scotia Nature Trust as property guardians in the St. Mary’s River area since 2015. Both from nearby communities and with strong family ties that go back for generations, their connection to the area is deeply personal.

During their working lives, the McGraths made their home in Antigonish County; Clyde was a lineman for Nova Scotia Power and Bonnie was a Medical Laboratory Technologist. The couple had always planned to move “back home” after retirement and they made that dream come true in 2014 when they came back to make a home on the property where Clyde grew up.

The surrounding wilderness is important to this energetic duo, who love to spend time exploring in nature by hiking, snowshoeing, and kayaking. Bonnie is also an avid photographer who finds inspiration during their adventures, and Clyde assists by carrying her gear. Together they make an excellent team.

Their path to becoming property guardians began when they attended a hike in the Waternish area and found out the Nature Trust was looking for volunteers. They thought this may be a good fit for them because of their active lifestyles and connection to the area. Bonnie and Clyde became property guardians for Hemlock Hills, a property on the St. Mary’s River with majestic hemlock stands.

The couple has participated in several hikes on other St Mary’s properties and especially enjoyed guest speakers who shared their knowledge about plants, birds, floodplain forest and wood turtles. Some of these properties are difficult to access, as there are not always specific trails. Luckily, the McGraths enjoy walking in the woods and will often take a lunch to make the most of the day. And, even though they live in the area, there are always new things to learn and more beauty to see.

Being property guardians is a great way for Bonnie and Clyde to combine their love of nature with the important task of assisting with Nature Trust stewardship activities. In addition to being our eyes and ears on the ground during their frequent forays, they also complete a monitoring report each year, assist with events such as hikes, and provide support to staff and other volunteers when they are working in the area. That connection with other like-minded people is one of the many satisfying aspects of their volunteer efforts.

We are truly grateful for all of their support and work over the years!