In his youth, Paul Morris spent a great deal of time outdoors with
his father and grandfather who would take him on their landscape
painting trips. These times fostered a passion for the outdoors and
natural history. Later he completed his undergraduate degree at
Waterloo University in biology and then went on to complete his Masters
at Acadia University in Nova Scotia. Those two years involved intensive
greenhouse, laboratory and field research on native plants. His
in-depth knowledge of native plants gives him insight into growing over
350 species of plants for restoration projects. His extensive
experience in wetland and prairie restoration ecology and conservation
biology makes him a leader in the design and planting of restoration
areas. In 1997, Environment Canada asked him to co-author a manual on
prairie and meadow restoration. He continues to restore sections of his
95-acre farm and has completed numerous projects across Ontario,
including Eco-parks, wastewater and storm water ponds, and
naturalization for private homeowners.
Catherine Riley-Arenburg - Office Manager
Catherine developed a deep
appreciation of the natural world while growing up on a rural property
in Haldimand County. An avid gardener, her love of scents led her to
explore soap making, and she has become a skilled creator of high-end,
all natural artisanal soaps. She has also presented workshops on soap
making and herbs, teaching people how to create their own natural
personal care products economically.
Catherine has amassed considerable knowledge about alternative
medicines, herbology and alternative healing practises, inspired in
part by her own and her husband's native ancestry. She has three years
of hands-on experience at Acorus Restoration in everything from seed
gathering, seeding, potting, plantings, setting up deliveries,
assisting in organizing plantings, filling orders, estimating, making
recommendations and providing suitable alternatives for substitutions
and retail sales. She is a firm believer in excellent product knowledge
and quality customer service and is ready to assist Acorus customers
with all their planting needs.
