The Grand River Conservation Authority says several of its parks saw “significant challenges” on the weekend with visitors not following rules and restrictions put in place amid the novel coronavirus pandemic.
Staff reported people not respecting closed areas, people on beaches and people not practising appropriate physical distancing measures.
“Further to this, a considerable amount of garbage and waste was left throughout the conservation areas, in particular at Guelph Lake,” the organization said in a statement.
Guelph Lake was even forced to open late on Sunday due to the amount of clean up that was required.
Going forward, the conservation authority is urging visitors to respect the rules and restrictions that are in place.
It said if staff continue to see these challenges, access will be restricted or the areas may be forced to close altogether.
Some key reminders were also provided for visitors
- The Elora Quarry Conservation area remains closed
- Grand River Parks are open for limited recreational activities such as hiking, birdwatching, fishing and boating from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Park is limited and if capacity is reached then access will be restricted
- People should plan for short visits to ensure space can be shared and stay close to home. If the areas are busy, visitors should return at another time
- All beaches and swimming areas are closed
- All buildings and on-site facilities remain closed
- No garbage bins are available and visitors should carry out their waste
- Physical distancing is required and people should stay at least two metres or six feet apart
- Some portions of the conservation areas are not accessible
- Visitors must obey all signage and keep their pets on a leash at all times
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More information about Grand River parks can be found on the conservation authority’s website.
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