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Friends of Laurier Woods Announces Fund Raising Campaign
The Friends of Laurier Woods is providing a new opportunity for stewardship within Laurier Woods. They have launched Walk with Friends, a $30,000 fund raising campaign, to replace the two boardwalks that surround the main pond.
These boardwalks have been exposed to the elements for over 20 years, and with increased usage require additional safety considerations for the wildlife that depend on the protection of the area as habitat & visitors. The reconstruction will include new footings, wider decking, and a raised safety bumper. Construction is planned to take place in the winter of 2023. An alternate access into the trail network will be provided.
To connect potential donors with the wildlife of Laurier Woods donations will be directed to one of six categories: Tamarack representing donations from $1- $99, Blanding’s Turtle $100 – 400; Pileated Woodpecker $500 – 999; Pink Lady’s Slipper $1000 – 2999; White-Tailed Deer $3000 – 4999; and North American Beaver $5000 – or more. Those interested in donating can read more about the individual species on the Friends of Laurier Woods website www.laurierwoods.com, where full descriptions of each of the species is provided, including their French and Nipissing Ojibway names. Stencils depicting each of the species will also be marked with non-toxic paint on the wood planks of the boardwalk. Donations can be made by E-transfer, Canada Helps, or cheque through the website. Tax receipts will be provided for donations over $20. All donors will be recognized with a short ‘thank-you video’ that they can share, and with their consent will appear on our social media. Should donations grow beyond the $30,000 donors can be confident the money will be used for other important maintenance work and/or educational endeavours within Laurier Woods C.A.
The Friends of Laurier Woods was established as a charity to manage the area as a nature preserve; to establish an interpretive trail system, boardwalks, viewing platforms, and rest areas; and to promote the area for low-impact, day-use recreation. In 1991 the Friends of Laurier Woods and the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority became joint owners/managers of initial property that has grown to cover 250 acres today. The Woods, encompasses provincially significant wetlands, rocky outcrops and upland forest, is a sanctuary to a broad range of wetland and woodland creatures, including migrating birds. An 8km trail network, accessible from the end of Brule Street, spans the site offering excellent opportunities for hiking and nature appreciation within the centre of urban North Bay.
For Further Information:
Fred Pinto, fredpinto1@gmail.com/705-476-9006
Susan Christian, susandchristian@gmail.com/705-752-2837