WELLINGTON COUNTY – Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) officials say they will restrict access or close parks altogether if visitors continue to break the rules.
On June 6, the authority “experienced significant challenges” with visitors “not respecting area closures,” including beaches, and people “not practicing appropriate physical distancing measures,” states a GRCA press release.
Officials added “a considerable amount of garbage and other waste was left throughout the conservation areas, in particular at Guelph Lake.”
As a result, Guelph Lake was closed until June 7 at 10am – two hours later than the planned opening – “due to the amount of clean up … required.”
GRCA officials are warning visitors that if things don’t improve, “access will be restricted or the areas may be forced to close altogether.”
The authority is reminding visitors of the following rules/regulations:
- the Elora Quarry Conservation Area remains closed until further notice;
- other Grand River Parks are open for limited recreational activities (hiking, birdwatching, fishing, boating) from 8am to 6pm;
- parking is limited and if capacity is reached, access will be restricted;
- plan for short visits to ensure the space can be shared and stay close to home;
- if the areas are busy, people should leave and return at another time;
- all beaches and swimming areas are closed;
- all buildings and on-site facilities, including washrooms, gatehouses, picnic areas and playgrounds remain closed;
- no equipment rentals are available;
- no garbage receptacles are available and visitors must carry any garbage or pet waste out with them;
- physical distancing is required (stay at least two metres or six feet apart and do not to congregate in groups);
- some portions of the conservation areas are not accessible; and
- visitors must obey all signs and keep their pets on a leash at all times.
For more information visit www.grandriver.ca/COVID19-FAQ.
