Rideau Valley Watershed, March 17, 2020 — RVCA is waiving fees at its Conservation Areas as public health officials encourage people to get out and enjoy a walk during these stressful times. All trails and boardwalks owned and operated by the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority will be open to the public free of charge until April 6, 2020. Interpretive centres and other facilities including washrooms and outhouses will be closed however to protect the health and safety of visitors and staff.
“We recognize that this is a stressful time for people as everyone takes steps to help limit the spread of the Coronavirus” said Sommer Casgrain-Robertson, RVCA General Manager. “We hope that our 11 conservation areas can provide some comfort by offering local residents with a close-to-home outdoor escape where they can enjoy a relaxing walk in a beautiful natural setting”.
Many studies show that time spent in nature reduces stress levels, enhances mental attitude and of course improves physical health. While enjoying our conservation areas we ask that people maintain social distancing and avoid gathering in groups or touching common surfaces.
“We have more than 40 kilometres of trails through mixed hardwood forests, meadows and wetlands,” says Casgrain-Robertson. “We hope families will come and explore our many hiking trails and scenic lookouts especially while schools are closed.”
Conservation Areas in the Rideau watershed include:
- Chapman Mills Conservation Area – Barrhaven/Riverside South
- Baxter Conservation Area – Kars
- Meisel Woods Conservation Area — Crow Lake
- Mill Pond Conservation Area – Portland
- Perth Wildlife Reserve – Perth
- Rideau Ferry Yacht Club Conservation Area – Rideau Ferry
- Foley Mountain Conservation Area – Westport
Visit www.rvca.ca/consevation-areas for a complete listing of locations,
