The gate for the internal road at Vanderwater Conservation Area has been closed and will remain closed for the foreseeable future.
That was the decision announced Friday by Quinte Conservation.
The organization says the decision was made to permanently close off motorized access to the road in order to improve visitor experience and allow ease of access for pedestrians, work towards naturalizing the area, reduce costs, and eliminate liability concerns associated with vehicles sharing the road with other users.
CAO Brad McNevin says, “Our priority is to improve visitor experience at Vanderwater Conservation Area. Closing the gate will not only restrict access for vandals, but it will help to make the area’s multi-use trail system more enjoyable for users.”
Invasive species are another concern for the Conservation Authority, as unwanted species can travel with vehicles and spread easily to new areas.
McNevin continues, “Invasive species are an ever growing concern for our organization. Closing off the road will help to slow down the spread and allow us to better control and manage what already exists in the area.”
Visitors are reminded that the conservation area’s parking lot will remain open as usual and that trails can be accessed from a trailhead located along one side of the parking area.
