Otonabee Conservation is pleased to receive over $1 million from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) towards four projects throughout the Otonabee River watershed. Funds from the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) and the Tourism Relief Fund (TRF) will reinvent and revitalize Jackson Creek Trail, Harold Town Conservation Area (CA), Warsaw Caves CA, and Selwyn Beach CA.
“Otonabee Conservation is honoured to receive this significant investment from the Government of Canada to enhance four of our most popular outdoor recreation properties across the Region.
These improvements will provide a more enjoyable and inclusive outdoor experience for residents and visitors to our watershed that would not be possible without this funding from FedDev Ontario; we are grateful for this commitment to Conservation Areas and trails in our watershed.”
Ryan Huntley | Chair, Otonabee Conservation Board of Directors
Otonabee Conservation was awarded $368,000 from the TRF to revitalize the Harold Town CA by increasing accessibility and inclusivity of trails and adding facilities such as picnic shelters and an accessible, inclusive washroom.
Through the CCRF, $524,000 was awarded to Otonabee Conservation for the revitalization of the Jackson Creek Trail. This includes bridge repairs and railing replacement, improved grading, and the addition of accessibility features.
An additional $189,000 from the CCRF will enable Otonabee Conservation to construct accessible and inclusive washroom facilities at the Warsaw Caves Conservation Area in Warsaw, ON and at Selwyn Beach Conservation Area in Lakefield, ON.
Each location will also include new signage and virtual/digital technology integration to enhance visitors’ experience and understanding of the habitat and wildlife along the trail, and to recognize First Nations heritage.
The Government of Canada is committing funds to support communities as we recover from the pandemic. An announcement on July 12 included over $12.2 million for 33 projects in Peterborough, Northumberland, and Kawartha Lakes.
For more information contact:
Janette Loveys Smith | CAO / Secretary-Treasurer
Otonabee Conservation
jsmith@otonabeeconservation.com | 705-745-5791 Ext. 222