May 13, 2020 – The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) recognizes that this May long weekend will be like no other. The Victoria Day holiday weekend is traditionally the unofficial start of the summer camping season but that’s not going to be the case this year.
“With the provincial COVID-19 Emergency Order in place, we cannot offer camping or boating over the long weekend,” said Jennifer Howley, UTRCA Conservation Areas Manager. “However, we continue to welcome people to our conservation areas for hiking, biking, walking, and enjoying nature with no entry fee. We know that spending time in nature can reduce stress and help you feel more energized.”
Here is what you can and can’t do at Fanshawe Conservation Area (London), Pittock Conservation Area (Woodstock), and Wildwood Conservation Area (St. Marys).
What is allowed?
Brief visits to hike, bike, walk, and enjoy nature are permitted.
What is not permitted?
Camping is strictly prohibited
Boating is not permitted – the reservoirs are closed to all watercraft
Campfires and fireworks are not permitted
Alcohol and marijuana are not permitted
UTRCA staff will be on site enforcing these restrictions.
If you visit:
Plan ahead – washroom facilities are NOT open
Playgrounds, benches, and picnic tables are closed
Keep your visit short – parking is limited
Park in designated parking lots and ensure roads, gates and exits are not blocked
Respect physical distancing requirements and “group size” maximums
Take only photos, leave only footprints
Take garbage and pet waste back home with you – be respectful of the environment
Visit only during daylight hours
Keep your pet leashed at all times – free running pets can be a danger to people and wildlife
All UTRCA offices and buildings are closed
Vehicle access is restricted to parking lots near the gated areas, to encourage walking and biking and reduce traffic within the parks.
The UTRCA will announce an opening date for camping and boating as soon as possible. Please watch for updates:
www.fanshaweconservationarea.ca
www.wildwoodconservationarea.ca
www.pittockconservationarea.ca
The UTRCA also has the following small day use conservation areas available with the same guidelines mentioned above.
• Cade Tract (south of Rannoch)
• Embro CA (northwest of Embro)
• Harmony CA (in the village of Harmony)
• Harrington CA (in the village of Harrington)
• Shakespeare CA (north of Shakespeare)
Follow #utrcaNatureChallenge on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram over the long weekend to win cool prizes!
Contact: Steve Sauder, Marketing Specialist