The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA), in partnership with the Township of Wainfleet, Niagara Regional Police, and Wainfleet Fire Department, has developed a strategy to address potential concerns at Wainfleet Wetlands and Quarry Conservation Area leading up to the Victoria Day long weekend.
With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic last year, conservation areas across Ontario saw a vast increase in visitors flocking to these natural greenspaces, as recreational opportunities became limited. The Niagara Peninsula watershed’s 41 conservation areas were no different, welcoming larger number of visitors than ever before.
“As warmer days approach this long weekend, residents and potential tourists alike are reminded to follow conservation area rules and regulations, in addition to all provincial guidelines currently in place,” says Adam Christie, Director of Land Operations. “Together with various local agencies, we will ensure that the site is properly monitored and enforced throughout the entire weekend. The increased security personnel and enforcement staff on site will help reduce the illegal activities that are common to the property.”
Visitors are asked to follow these guidelines when at NPCA conservation areas:
- Wear a mandatory face mask or covering in all public enclosed spaces, including washrooms, buildings, and gatehouses.
- Practice physical distance by staying 2 metres (6 feet) apart from other visitors.
- Do not gather in large groups of more than 5 people.
- All visitors must vacate conservation area by posted park closure time.
- Stay on trail. Respect wildlife and plant-life.
- Dispose of trash in designated receptacle or take your trash with you when leaving the property.
- Littering is prohibited.
- All pets must remain on leash at all times, and owners must clean up after them. Pets are not permitted on swimming beaches.
- Alcohol is prohibited at all NPCA Conservation Area day-use areas.
- Damage to or removal of wildlife, vegetation or natural features is prohibited.
- Gas-powered watercraft, all-terrain and off-road vehicles are prohibited.
- All visitors must adhere to provincial and municipal public health guidelines at all times.
- NPCA reserves the right to restrict access to Conservation Areas at any time due to capacity limits, public health restrictions, and/or health and safety purposes.
“This is a great example of effective partnership between local government and government agencies to take a balanced approach to public safety and responsible land use with the needs of the local community,” adds Kevin Gibson, Mayor of Township of Wainfleet. “We appreciate the efforts of the NPCA to provide additional security that will make use of the Quarry grounds safer and more enjoyable for everyone with less impact to area residents.”
Conservation areas in the Niagara Peninsula watershed remain open and continue to provide natural spaces for safe, local day-use visits for outdoor, passive recreation. Passive activities include walking, hiking, bird watching and nature photography. Camping, fires, and large gatherings are not permitted.
For more information on the Wainfleet Wetlands and Quarry Conservation Area, visit www.npca.ca. Follow on Facebook and Twitter for more updates.
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About NPCA:
The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) is a community-based natural resource management agency that works to protect, enhance, and sustain healthy watersheds. With 60 years of experience, the NPCA offers watershed programs and services that focus on flood and hazard management, source water protection, species protection, ecosystem restoration, community stewardship, and land management.
The NPCA is one of 36 Conservation Authorities in the Province of Ontario and manages 41 Conservation Areas within the Niagara Peninsula watershed held in public trust for recreation, heritage preservation, conservation, and education. These natural and shared greenspaces marry nature, culture, and adventure to create limitless opportunities for discovery.
Questions related to the above release should be directed to:
NPCA
Erika Navarro, Communications Specialist
905.788.3135 ext.262
Mobile: 905-650-4027
enavarro@npca.ca
Township of Wainfleet
Lee Gudgeon, B.A., D.H.S., M.A.
Manager of Human Resources
Township of Wainfleet
905-899-3463 ext. 243
LGudgeon@wainfleet.ca