August 2024 SVCA Lands Update

SVCA Reopens Two Properties, Temporarily Closes Stoney Island CA for Forest Management,
and Issues ATV Warning

SAUGEEN WATERSHED, ONTARIO (Bruce, Grey, Huron, Dufferin and Wellington Counties) –
Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA) is pleased to announce significant updates regarding conservation lands within the watershed.

Allan Park Conservation Area

Located at 301820 Concession 2 Sideroad, Hanover, the Allan Park Conservation Area has seen extensive forest management efforts due to the damage caused by the emerald ash borer efforts over the past several months. This 400-acre property within the Horseshoe Moraine includes over 10km of recreational trails.  All trails that have been closed for this purpose, are now officially reopened. Visitors can once again enjoy the full network of trails within this popular conservation area.

Mildmay/Carrick Managed Forest

The property located at 346 Bruce Road 28, Mildmay, has undergone significant trail repairs following a period of forest management and trail degradation caused by illegal motorized vehicles. The entire property, which was closed for these works, is now ready to welcome visitors, offering them safe and improved access to the forest's natural beauty.  This 327-acre property includes 3.5km of recreational trails that can be enjoyed on foot, horseback, bicycle, ski or snowshoe.  Mildmay/Carrick consists of gently rolling terrain with a large component of upland hardwoods.  Off-road vehicles are prohibited on this property, and all SVCA properties.

Stoney Island Conservation Area

Effective August 21st, 2024, the 98-acre Stoney Island Conservation Area, located at 481 Bruce Road 23, Tiverton, will be closed to the public for approximately 3 months. This closure is necessitated by the need to remove approximately 7,300 ash trees, which have been severely affected by an emerald ash borer infestation. Their removal is critical to ensuring the future safety of property users. The tree removal process poses extreme danger, and SVCA strongly advises the public to respect the closure for their safety and the safety of workers on site. Trespassing during this period could result in severe consequences, including grievous injury or death, and charges may be laid. The public is reminded that the appearance of the area will be significantly altered following the project, but nature will restore its beauty.

Prohibition of Motor Vehicles on SVCA Properties

SVCA reminds the public that motor vehicles, including and especially off-road vehicles such as ATVs, are strictly prohibited on all SVCA properties, outside of designated parking areas, under Ontario Regulation 688/21. The misuse of these areas by motorized vehicles not only destroys delicate ecosystems but also disrupts the peaceful enjoyment of nature intended for community members. Trail remediation requires trail closures for prolonged periods of time, and at great expense. Continued disregard for this regulation could result in permanent closures of these spaces to all visitors.

For more information, please contact: