GRCA is breaking ground on the construction of the new Guelph Lake Nature Center

NEWS RELEASE
MAJOR RIVER PROTECTION AUTHORITY
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Construction is set to begin on the long-awaited new Guelph Lake Nature Center (GLNC) in the Guelph Lake Conservation Area.

Representatives from the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA), Grand River Conservation Foundation (GRCF) and other guests gathered on Tuesday, April 23, to celebrate the groundbreaking for the project.

“This project represents a long-term commitment to environmental education and stewardship within the Grand River watershed by both the GRCA and community members in Guelph/Eramosa Township, Wellington County and Guelph,” said GRCA President Chris White.

The one-storey building was designed by +VG Architects and will be built by Dakon Construction. It will be located within the GRCA’s Guelph Lake Conservation Area and will feature a large multi-purpose room that can be divided into two classrooms, providing learning opportunities for people of all ages.

The new building, expected to be completed by the end of 2024, will replace the existing nature center that has operated in a small detached house since 1982. In addition to being more accessible and offering enhanced learning opportunities, the new GLNC will sit next to a burning building. An 850 meter course that will be integrated into learning activities.

“The support of donors and our community has been the driving factor in this project,” said GRCF President Paul Salvini. “We thank all the local businesses, service organizations and individuals who generously donated to this project and commend their commitment to environmental education and conservation in our watershed.”

The GRCF first adopted the new GLNC as a fundraising project in the fall of 2010 as part of the overall Your River, Your Life campaign plan. Since that time, the GRCF has raised nearly $1.9 million in donations for the project, some of which has already been used for consulting fees, surveys, utility infrastructure and permit fees. Additional projects have also been completed, including pollinator gardens, a pond and nature trails. Another $400,000 has been pledged by community members.

“The only way to truly ensure conservation is through education,” said Susan Frasson, donor and representative of the Honorary Campaign Chair Family. “We know that spending time in nature has a positive effect on mental health and wellbeing. It is critical that we get children outside and back into nature, the environment they were designed for.”

The GRCA board approved the tender amount of $2,041,000.00 for the building in March 2024. Up to $1.1 million could potentially come from the GRCA’s reserves to complete the remainder of the project. The GRCF continues to accept donations to assist with the new Guelph Lake Nature Center construction project. For more information about the project and how you can help, visit www.grandriver.ca/glnc.

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