The Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA) will begin installing a new fence at the Durham Conservation Area this July, a move aimed at enhancing public safety, deterring unauthorized activity, and complying with provincial regulations.
The project will secure the boundaries of both the campground and the surrounding conservation lands. The new fencing will feature two pedestrian gates and one vehicle gate, all of which are scheduled to operate daily from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Following Ontario Regulation 688/21, SVCA conservation lands remain closed from dusk to dawn.
Despite clear signage, SVCA reports that unpaid access and after-hours trespassing have continued to be a problem at the site.
“This project is part of our ongoing efforts to maintain safe, respectful, and sustainable access to our conservation lands,” said Donna Lacey, Manager of Forestry and Lands. “We’re aiming to strike a balance: ensuring that paying visitors and campers can enjoy their time with us, while protecting the property from misuse that impacts our campground community, wildlife, maintenance, and safety.”
The fence installation is expected to take about two weeks, starting in early July. Gate automation hardware and hydro servicing will follow, with full operation anticipated by August 2025.
Access through the new gates will be available during operating hours to paid day-use visitors, registered campers, and annual day-use membership holders.
To make entry easier for members, SVCA will issue control cards to replace the barcoded mirror-hanger tags currently in use. Day-use passes will continue to be available at the gatehouse, and annual memberships can be purchased online at www.saugeenconservation.ca/annual.
According to the SVCA, their conservation areas remain among Ontario’s most affordable outdoor destinations, with memberships priced at $55 per year or $5 for a daily pass. These modest fees help offset the costs of maintaining over 8,000 hectares of conservation land and infrastructure.
In a continued effort to keep outdoor spaces accessible to all, complimentary annual passes will be placed at local libraries in the Durham area for individuals or families who may face financial barriers.
For more information, visit www.saugeenconservation.ca.