Significant Upgrades Completed At Kopegaron Woods

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Newly constructed boardwalk at Kopegaron Woods Conservation Area is safe, accessible, and environmentally sustainable. (ERCA)

Accessibility and visitor services have been significantly improved at Kopegaron Woods Conservation Area this spring, with the completion of a new accessible boardwalk.

“The boardwalk is designed to meet modern accessibility guidelines and although many sections of this trail between the boardwalks are natural footpaths, it is more accessible than before,” explained Kevin Money, Director of Conservation Services for the Essex Region Conservation Authority. In total, nearly 600 metres of boardwalk have been replaced, and the balance of the gravel and woodchip trail resurfaced to improve walkability.

The boardwalk is constructed of red cedar instead of pressure treated wood, to eliminate the use of man-made preservatives. The previous boardwalk was well past its useful life. The new boardwalk is designed to last for twenty to thirty years.

The entire project was completed over the past two winter seasons at a cost of approximately $400,000, and is now open in time for the spring birding season. “In addition to bird watching, Kopegaron is renowned for its beautiful spring wildflowers, and is a favourite destination for nature photographers,” Money added. “We are very proud of these boardwalk upgrades. It is safe, accessible and used environmentally sustainable products. We’ve already had very positive feedback from those whom have visited Kopegaron Woods.”