Library Project a Success again this year (UTRCA weekly, November 25, 2022)

The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) partnered with area libraries again this year to give library patrons the opportunity to visit our Conservation Areas.

The UTRCA provided 2022 Season Vehicle passes to the Childreach Lending Library, London Public Library, North Perth Library, Perth East Library, St. Marys Public Library, Stratford Public Library, and Oxford County libraries.

The passes provide day use access to Wildwood, Fanshawe, and Pittock Conservation Areas, and can be signed out similar to a library book. This initiative began in 2019 with the St. Marys Public Library and has expanded from there.

The program has been very well received by library patrons. One London Library patron shared that, “With the UTRCA pass I check out from London Public Library, my family and I have been spending more time outdoors, enjoying the large forests and meadows so close to the city by accessing hiking and biking trails to bird watch, walk our dog, and experience the fun, but challenging, bike loop around the lake. We love how the library provides access to the green spaces of local conservation areas, giving users an opportunity to immerse themselves in nature.”

The UTRCA hopes to continue the program in the 2023 season. In the meantime, while the campgrounds and facilities are closed at Fanshawe, Wildwood, and Pittock Conservation Areas, visitors can still enjoy the trails during daylight hours! Find out more about UTRCA parks, recreation, and natural areas to enjoy this fall.