Contact(s)
To many in Waterloo Region and Brant County, a trip to FWR Dickson Wilderness Area means a chance to feed the chickadees along the boardwalk and explore the rolling native grasslands that fill the heart of this area just south of Cambridge.
This area has stood the test of time. Many feet have walked and hiked these trails. Skis, snowshoes, and bicycles have traversed the terrain. But as with any well-explored natural area, Dickson is in need of a facelift.
The GRCA has received a $93,500 grant from the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program to support the rehabilitation of the trails network. This funding is part of a larger campaign to help restore the area and ultimately re-establish a trail link between FWR Dickson Wilderness Area and Bannister Lake natural area.
Boardwalk replacement
The wooden boardwalk is an important stopping point within Dickson Wilderness Area. School classes from nearby Wrigley's Corners Outdoor Education Centre and families out for a walk, often spend time with the chickadees that call this area home. Accessing these chickadees has become increasingly more challenging in recent years though, as age and heavy traffic have worn out the existing 150 metre boardwalk.
Work got underway this fall! The new boardwalk is now under construction and the area will be re-opened in early April 2018 for everyone to enjoy. It will offer people of all mobility levels a wider, more accessible way to enjoy nature.
Improved accessibility along the trail
Once the boardwalk is complete, work will begin on the 350 m trail that connects the parking lot on Brant-Waterloo Road to the boardwalk area. What was once a narrow, bumpy route will be smoothed and widened to make it accessible and easier for families with strollers and wagons as well as people with mobility assistance devices to enjoy a hike in the woods.
Stay tuned for information about Phase Two of this project!
In 2018, GRCA has plans to extend a trail from the north section of Dickson to the Wrigley-Bannister Lake area, a distance of about two kilometers, and to undertake other enhancements. Work will be done as funds are available.
Want to position your company as a supporter of great outdoor experiences? Ask us about naming opportunities along the trail!
Community support
Dickson Wilderness Area is an important natural space, located a short distance from Cambridge, Ayr, and Paris. In supporting this area, you'll also be supporting the many families who enjoy it year round.
To date, more than $90,000 has been committed for the project! We are grateful to our donors:
Ayr Farmers Mutual Insurance Company
Tom and Barb LeBrun
Cambridge & North Dumfries Community Foundation
Joel and Gloria Doherty
Keith Murray and Kemur Camp
TD Friends of the Environment Foundation
Trillium Mutual Insurance Company
