Carleton Place launches free binocular borrowing program for nature lovers and birdwatchers

With birding season underway, spring is one of the best times to spot wildlife around Carleton Place’s trails, wetlands and riverside green spaces. Birdwatchers and nature lovers in Carleton Place now have a new way to explore the outdoors this spring and summer with the launch of a community binocular loaning program.

In a release issued on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, the Town of Carleton Place announced that residents and visitors can now borrow binoculars free of charge at the town’s Information Centre at 170 Bridge Street, making it easier for people of all ages to discover local wildlife and birding hotspots throughout the community.

Alongside the new binocular lending program, the town has also introduced new birding brochures, which highlight recommended viewing locations and the types of birds and wildlife visitors may encounter along the way. Local birdwatchers can expect to catch sightings of herons, ducks, songbirds and other native species while exploring areas throughout town.

For town officials, this latest initiative is intended to encourage residents to spend more time outdoors while making nature exploration more accessible and affordable for families and newcomers to the hobby.

The program was made possible through support from the TD Friends of the Environment Foundation and Kayla Millar, branch manager at TD Canada Trust in Carleton Place.

Residents interested in borrowing binoculars or learning more about local birding opportunities can visit the Carleton Place Information Centre or contact the town’s community development department for additional information at jhansen@carletonplace.ca