The public is reminded that all Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority (GRCA) properties remain closed. This includes the Ganaraska Forest and all conservation areas in the Ganaraska watershed.

The Forest will not be open for May 1st.

The GRCA understands your frustrations during these uncertain times. You local conservation authority is being optimistic that the current situation will be resolved if everyone continues to follow the advice of the Ministry of Health by staying home; however, for the unforeseeable future, the GRCA are taking precautions to keep everyone safe. 

Properties closed to the public include:


C losing GRCA properties and trails is not an easy decision for the GRCA to make. The mandate & mission of conservation authorities is the protection of people & property within their watershed. Closing conservation areas and the Ganaraska Forest amid COVID-19 is consistent with that mandate.

People who choose to ignore these closures need to be aware that they are trespassing. By entering the Ganaraska Forest or a conservation area, they are subject to fines. Not only are they breaking the law, they are potentially putting themselves and others at risk, and are causing irreversible damage to the trails.

Please note that the Ganaraska Region Conservation continues to monitor this situation, and will be extending Ganaraska Forest annual memberships by the number of months that the Forest is closed. 

It is a waiting game for all of us during these uncertain times.Consider stepping into nature at home with free online education activities and learning opportunities offered by Ontario’s Conservation Authorities. Visit their websites!

Think ahead to warmer days, and plan out your summer garden. Save money and protect your municipal services by purchasing a rain barrel through the GRCA's rain barrel fundraiser in partnership with RainBarrel.ca. All orders are due by May 15th, with home delivery at the end of the month.

Keeping employees and residents safe is paramount to the GRCA. Your local conservation authority is committed to keeping communications open to watershed residents. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. 905.885.8173 / info@grca.on.ca .