The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) has completed the first phase of public engagement for the new Beamer Memorial Conservation Area (Beamer) Management Plan, gathering valuable insight from community members, visitors, and local partners to help guide the future of one of Grimsby’s most iconic natural spaces.
Launched in September 2025, the engagement process invited public participation through an online project page, on-site and digital surveys, a community open house, meetings with Indigenous partners, and with the Town of Grimsby. Using this variety of engagement methods, more than 850 participant contributions provided feedback on how people use Beamer, what they value most, and what priorities should shape its long-term management.
Five key themes have begun to take shape:
- Improved Trails and Amenities
- Visitor Management and Parking
- Education and Community Engagement
- Protection of Natural Heritage
- Support for Passive Recreation
The public feedback strongly reflects NPCA’s Strategic Plan 2021–2031 and Conservation Area Strategy, supporting goals related to biodiversity protection, safe and accessible recreation, climate resilience, community education, and Indigenous partnership building.
The NPCA will work with community members, municipal partners, and stakeholders to validate these themes and explore management options that balance passive recreation, accessibility, and environmental protection. This next phase will help shape the draft Beamer Memorial Conservation Area Management Plan, ensuring it reflects shared values and supports the long-term sustainability and enjoyment of Beamer Memorial Conservation Area.
“Community input is essential to shaping a thoughtful, sustainable future for Beamer Memorial Conservation Area,” said Eric Baldin, NPCA Manager Conservation Areas Land Planning. “We’re grateful for the engagement so far and look forward to continued collaboration.”
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About Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority:
As a community-based natural resource management agency, the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority envisions a healthy and vibrant natural environment with shared greenspace and clean water for all. NPCA’s work supports the conservation, enhancement, and sustainability of healthy watersheds with programs and services that focus on drinking water source protection, flood and hazard management, ecosystem restoration, community stewardship, education, and land management.
NPCA is the caretaker of 43 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.
Media inquiries to be directed to:
Jennifer McQuillan, Communications and Marketing Specialist
Mobile: 905-933-0532
jmcquillan@npca.ca