Conservation Areas pivot during Pandemic (UTRCA Weekly, March 18, 2021)
March 18, 2021 – Conservation Areas across Ontario have experienced an unprecedented increase in visitation since the beginning of the pandemic, as people look for safe, outdoor activities. For staff at Fanshawe, Pittock, and Wildwood Conservation Areas, welcoming more visitors while complying with public health recommendations has meant rethinking daily operations and adapting quickly.
Justin Skrypnyk, Superintendent at Pittock Conservation Area in Woodstock, said staff saw more people visiting the park, with many trying out new outdoor activities. “All in all, the pandemic brought more people out to the park. People were seeking the green spaces we offer. The biggest benefit was that more people got outside, whatever that meant for them. Many people just came to go for a walk and get out of their house, but all outdoor activities grew in popularity. People were also picking up hobbies they hadn’t tried before, like fishing and boating.”
Video: Wildwood Lake Trail and Seasons Passes
The Conservation Areas’ employees were deemed essential by the Province. Their challenge was finding a balance between the increased demand for accessible outdoor green space for the health and well-being of park visitors, and the need to ensure the health and safety of staff.
While there were certainly challenges, some of the changes that staff implemented improved the customer experience. For example, seasonal camper registration was streamlined by scheduling appointments with staff, which meant campers weren’t all lined up, waiting for their turn. Promoting cashless payment increased the speed and safety of transactions.
At all three conservation areas, staff reduced the number of sites available for overnight camping to allow for physical distancing, and feedback was that campers preferred it. “Spacing out the campsites made for a more natural camping experience,” said Justin. “It was really good for campers as it created a more private experience with some green space on either side. The downside is that fewer sites meant less revenue, but campers certainly liked it.”
With the 2021 season just weeks away, the online demand for camping reservations is way up, indicating this will be another busy year in the Conservation Areas. Justin recommends that people consider camping outside of the prime summer weekends, in the spring or fall, or mid-week. Click here to reserve a campsite.
Staff hope that visitors continue to be patient and understanding as the parks start a second season of modified operations, thanks to the pandemic. “Come and enjoy the outdoors, that’s what we’re here for,” said Justin. “Appreciate the natural environment, share the space, and be respectful.”
Providing natural spaces and recreational opportunities at Fanshawe, Pittock, and Wildwood Conservation Areas supports the UTRCA’s Environmental Target, of reaching 1 million people annually with conservation messages through access to UTRCA lands and demonstration of green infrastructure.
Check out these photos and video from Fanshawe, Pittock and Wildwood Conservation Areas:
