(North Bay, Ontario, Jan. 25, 2021) There’s no better place to soak in the health benefits of being outdoors than in North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority’s 15 conservation areas and trails. The areas and trails remain open during the current pandemic lock-down as long as people physically distance and wear a mask when that’s not possible.
“NBMCA has been following the recommendations of our local public health experts, keeping our trails open to promote health and wellness, while encouraging the public to respect physical distancing for our community’s safety,” said NBMCA Chair Dave Mendicino.
“While we don’t maintain trails in the winter, the public is welcome to venture out to hike, snowshoe or fatbike on our trails. It’s important that the public respect the provincial regulations by maintaining the 2 metre distance from other people using the trails. If that’s not possible, they must wear a mask. We want people to enjoy being outdoors and be safe,” said Troy Storms, Manager of Lands and Stewardship.
NBMCA has seen continued use of its trails during the COVID-19 pandemic. The use has been increasing as the restrictions linger on, including at Laurier Woods Conservation Area in North Bay.
“The trails at Laurier Woods are being well used,” said Fred Pinto, Chair of Friends of Laurier Woods which co-owns Laurier Woods with NBMCA.
“While people are enjoying the trails, we would like to remind them to maintain physical distancing, keep their dogs on leash, stay on the trails, and leave nature in its place,” said Pinto.
NBMCA will continue to monitor the provincial regulations and the direction of the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit’s Medical Officer of Health regarding access to outdoor areas during the pandemic.
While Kate Pace Way between Lakeshore and Decaire Rd is open to hikers and fatbikers, the gates are closed to snowmobiles by order of the Medical Officer of Health.
The North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority (NBMCA) was founded in 1972 by the Province of Ontario and the NBMCA’s 10 member municipalities. A non-profit organization, the NBMCA works closely with the public to balance human needs with the environmental needs of the region’s watershed. The NBMCA is one of 36 Conservation Authorities who are members of Conservation Ontario.
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For information contact:
Troy Storms, Manager, Lands and Stewardship (705) 474-5420
Sue Buckle, Manager, Communications & Outreach (705) 474-5420 ext 2010 cell: 705-497-4999