BOARDWALK ACCESS TO NATURAL GEM OPENS MAY 25
With construction coordinated by South Nation Conservation, a structured trail through a portion of one of Ottawa’s natural gems will be officially opened May 25.
A ribbon-cutting celebrating Findlay Creek Boardwalk will get underway at 1 p.m. with several dignitaries participating. Light refreshments will be served followed by an interpretive tour along the new gift to local residents.
Location for the event is the trailhead on Findlay Creek Drive between While Alder Avenue and Bufflehead Way, west of Bank Street. Donations will be accepted to put towards maintenance of the boardwalk.
The boardwalk was financed under an innovative partnership with local developers. Tartan and Tamarack homes set aside $200 from the sale of new residences in the community to preserve and provide access to a 100-acre wetland.
“It worked out very well for all concerned,” said Angela Coleman, Director of SNC Property Management and Approvals. “The wetland wasn’t appropriate for development so the builders gave it back to the original owners who donated it to South Nation Conservation. Local residents gain from long-term protection of the wetland and a great place to teach children about habitat and conservation.”
Coleman emphasized that SNC is proud to partner with Tartan and Tamarack because the builders are dedicated to reducing the impact of new homes on the environment. Also supporting the project is the City of Ottawa and the Findlay Creek Community Association.
The provincially significant wetland contains marsh, cedar swamp and rare calcareous fen. The site is home to many different species, including 90 resident bird varieties with another 40 dropping in during migration.
The boardwalk includes a lookout in the fen section and links up to a small conservation area at the west end. The route was carefully plotted for minimal effect on habitat.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Angela Coleman, SNC, 877-984-2948, x 308.
Acoleman@nation.on.ca