GRCA opens conservation areas, boat launches; prepares for camping

WELLINGTON COUNTY – The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) opened boat launches at some conservation areas on May 23.

The May 22 announcement may come as a bit of a surprise to some, as the GRCA announced just two days prior that launches would likely not open until May 30.

“GRCA staff have been able to install all required public safety infrastructure around dams and prepare these facilities ahead of schedule,” states the May 22 press release.

Now open are boat launches at: Belwood Lake and Conestogo Lake; boat launches and docks for those who wish to canoe and kayak at Guelph Lake, Laurel Creek and Shade’s Mills conservation areas; and boating and fishing at the above reservoirs (canoe and kayak rentals are not available).

The reservoir at the Rockwood Conservation Area will remain closed and canoeing and kayaking is not permitted at this time.

“Visitors are reminded that these areas will be open between 8am and 6pm and that parking is limited,” states the GRCA release.

“If capacity is reached, access will be restricted. Since there is no automatic gate at these conservation areas, and gatehouses will remain closed, visitors without a Grand River Parks membership pass will be required to pay by cash (exact change only) in payment boxes located at the gatehouse.”

Officials add, “Standard entrance fees will apply. Standard boat launch fees for motor boats at Belwood Lake and Conestogo Lake conservation areas will apply and must also be paid upon entry.”

The following remain closed at this time: Brant, Byng Island, Elora Gorge, Elora Quarry and Pinehurst Lake conservation areas, and the Luther Marsh Wildlife Management Area.

Conservation areas open

The GRCA also reopened four conservation areas in Wellington County for limited day use on May 23 and plans to offer camping beginning June 15.

On May 20 the GRCA announced Belwood Lake, Conestogo Lake, Guelph Lake and Rockwood conservation areas will open for limited recreational activities such as walking and bird watching.

These conservation areas will operate from 8am to 6pm.

Visitors without a Grand River Parks membership pass will be required to pay by cash (exact change only) in payment boxes located at the gatehouse.

Laurel Creek (Waterloo) and Shade’s Mills (Cambridge) conservation areas are also open for limited day use activities to those with Grand River Parks memberships or paying by credit card at the automatic gate.

The GRCA also reopened the following natural areas to the public on May 23: Dumfries Conservation Area, Cambridge; Arkell-Smith, Puslinch; Guelph Lake dam to Victoria Road N.; Puslinch Tract; Snyder’s Flats, Bloomingdale; and Starkey Hill, Puslinch.

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Seasonal camping

The GRCA is tentatively planning to open seasonal camping on June 15, subject to its ability to meet all the health and safety requirements of the provincial government.

Seasonal campers will receive further information regarding reopening and access to their sites directly from their park in the coming days.

At all boat launches, conservation areas and seasonal campgrounds, the GRCA cautions guests to observe the new rules.

“Visitors are reminded to practice physical distancing and not to congregate in groups,” states the GRCA release.

“The GRCA is also asking the public to plan short visits to areas that have been reopened to ensure the space can be shared.

Some portions of the conservation areas may not be accessible. Visitors are reminded to obey signage, and keep their pets on a leash at all times.”

All GRCA buildings and on-site facilities, including washrooms, gatehouses, picnic areas, playgrounds, beaches and docks in these areas will remain closed.

In addition, no garbage receptacles will be available so carry any garbage or pet waste.

For complete details about GRCA properties visit www.grandriver.ca/COVID19-FAQ.