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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.
Located on the north side of Brant Waterloo Road about five kilometers east of Ayr, this area has stood the test of time. Many feet have walked and hiked these trails since the 1960's, when the area was acquired. Skis, snowshoes, and bicycles have traversed the terrain. But as with any well-explored natural area, Dickson was in need of a facelift.
Phase One: Trail and Boardwalk Updates Complete!
GRCA got underway with renovations in 2017 with the support of a $93,500 grant from the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program and more than $90,000 in community donations. Over the fall and winter, a new 150 m boardwalk and 350 m improved-accessibility trail were created for all to enjoy.
As of March 31, FWR Dickson Wilderness Area is now open again, offering a better experience for people with strollers, wagons and all levels of mobility.
Phase Two: Extending the Trail
Dickson is part of an important natural area known as the Spottiswood Lake Complex, which includes Pinehurst Conservation Area as well as Wrigley and Bannister Lakes. In a short period of time, a trail walker will see stunning natural diversity including upland forest, mixed wetland, kettle lakes and some of the last remaining healthy tallgrass prairie habitat in Ontario.
Opportunities for our community to enjoy this kind of natural wonder at no cost are rare. In phase two of the project, GRCA has plans to make improvements to northern sections of the trail which travel abut two kilometers north to Wrigley and Bannister Lakes. Steep and uneven areas will be graded, way-finding signage improved and a scenic outlook created for public enjoyment. The anticipated project cost is $85,000 and work will be done as funds are available.
You can help! If you enjoy the trail, or would like to position your company as a supporter of great outdoor experiences, please consider making a donation. Naming opportunities are available for donors of $5,000 or more.
Thank You to Our Supporters!
The community has come together to make the project a success. We are grateful to these donors for their support.
Ayr Farmers Mutual Insurance Company
Tom and Barb LeBrun
Cambridge & North Dumfries Community Foundation
Robert and Janice Deutschmann
Joel and Gloria Doherty
Keith Murray and Kemur Camp
TD Friends of the Environment Foundation
Trillium Mutual Insurance Company
The employees of Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada have also contributed significantly by volunteering their time for hands-on work such as tree pruning and removal of invasive species that protect the native ecosystem at Dickson. Other volunteer opportunities are available, at Dickson and other GRCA properties.
