WELLINGTON COUNTY – The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) has cancelled all day camps this summer.
Officials made the announcement on June 4 due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The GRCA decision was made in response to the provincial government’s release of health guidelines for day camps on June 2.
“Upon review of the guidelines, the GRCA has determined that the restrictions would significantly impact its ability to deliver quality day camp programs in the current COVID-19 environment,” states the GRCA release.
Tracey Ryan, GRCA manager of environmental education and restoration, said the decision to cancel was difficult, but “the health and safety of our campers and staff remain our highest priority.”
On March 16, the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) closed all of its nature centres to the public and cancelled March Break Camps. All events, like birthday parties, were also cancelled.
The GRCA’s day camp programs were developed pre-pandemic, and include large gatherings both indoor and outdoor, as well as in-person interactive activities, officials note.
“Our traditional summer camps would not be the same under COVID-19 restrictions. It’s difficult to imagine a nature camp without a campfire circle, interactive and team activities and adventures,” said Ryan.
“The GRCA has a low-risk threshold when it comes to the health, safety and wellbeing of our participants. Parents expect a welcoming and safe environment for their children at our nature centres.
“While we wish we could welcome everyone back to camp this summer, we must err on the side of health and safety for all the right reasons.”
All registrants will be contacted in the coming weeks to receive a full refund, officials note.
For complete details about which GRCA properties are open and closed to the public, and what activities are permissible, visit www.grandriver.ca/COVID19-FAQ.
