Windsor/Essex – While the Province of Ontario has permitted our region to remain in Phase 3 of reopening, Essex Region Conservation continues to work collaboratively with the community to slow the spread of COVID-19. In accordance with local, Provincial and Federal directions, Essex Region Conservation announces the following updates to our programs and facilities:
- Outdoor conservation areas and greenway trails will continue to be open from dawn to dusk for passive use. Proper physical distancing protocols of remaining at least 2 metres from any other visitor who is not part of your household must be observed. Conservation area usage is monitored to ensure these guidelines are being followed so that we can safely continue to offer these important natural areas for physical and mental health.
- Holiday Beach Conservation Area washrooms are now closed for the winter season, and the roads closed to vehicles. Visitors may still park outside of the gates and walk in.
- The John R. Park Homestead grounds are closed during shoreline construction. Photo permits and the Gift Shop are available from 11am – 5pm Saturdays and Sundays through November.
- Waterfowl Hunting is taking place at Hillman Marsh, Holiday Beach, Big Creek and Cedar Creek and deer hunting is occurring in our natural areas without public trails. Please be sure to follow the posted signs at these Conservation Areas to ensure your safety.
Hillman Marsh is open dawn until dusk every day, but washroom facilities remain closed. During the Hunting season (September – January) there are restrictions on some trails at Hillman Marsh. Hunting occurs Monday to Saturday from dawn to 3:00pm daily. During this time, the trail that takes you around the west Cell is closed. The trail around the shorebird bird cell remains open. If you wish to walk around the West cell you can do so after 3:00pm or any time on Sunday.
- Large events, including the Super Santa Run and Christmas in the Country, are cancelled for this year. However, ERCA is offering a variety of small group tours and programs. Please check our website
- All essential services including our Flood Forecasting and Warning remain active.
- Our permitting, planning and regulatory responsibilities continue. Applications for permit can be made online at https://essexregionconservation.ca/planning-and-permits/.
- Staff continue to rotate between home and office workplaces to maintain distancing requirements. The important watershed-based conservation work we undertake will continue as efficiently as possible, under modified working conditions.
- ERCA offices at 360 Fairview Avenue West will continue modified operations. Inquiries can be made over the phone and by email. However, as the Essex County Civic Centre remains closed, we are also closed to walk-in visits until further notice.
Essex Region Conservation thanks the leadership of our local communities, and extends our sincerest appreciation to all who are working to keep our region’s citizens safe, supplied and protected.
Since 1973, Essex Region Conservation has been enriching and sustaining our region as the Place for Life.
