Bonnechere Provincial Park Info Guide

Superintendent’s Message

On behalf of the Bonnechere Team, I would like to extend a warm Ottawa Valley welcome! Thank you for choosing to visit us!!

The team and I are passionate about this park and making your stay with us a memorable one. Continuous improvement and providing exceptional customer service are 2 of our key focus areas. To that end, it’s my pleasure to update you on some exciting projects we’ve been working on.

Be sure to check out our new and improved park store! Over the winter we’ve completed some renovations and enhancements that I’m sure you’re going to love.

We’ve also been at it like busy beavers and have constructed a new firewood storage building near the park store…ensuring your firewood is perfectly seasoned for the perfect bonfire is something we hope will spark your interest and create many s’more stories!

We are also officially launching 2 new fully accessible and inclusive Footprints in Time (FIT) Trails in partnership with the Friends of Bonnechere Parks! The Nàdòbìkana FIT Trail is located in the day-use area and the Nòpiming FIT Trail can be accessed from the accessible parking lot at the Park entrance. These FIT trails are specially designed to provide accessible, inclusive outdoor spaces for people of all ages and abilities including accommodating those with low vision, hearing loss and mobility issues.

I would like to sincerely thank the Friends of Bonnechere for all they do. Selflessly giving their time, sharing their knowledge, skills and expertise; and investing many volunteer hours supporting our park. Their contributions and efforts help make the park the special place that it is.

I hope your stay is full of fun adventures, exploration and discovery!

Sincerely,

Jason Mask, Park Superintendent

Camper Information

Reservations

To make a reservation at Bonnechere Provincial Park or any other provincial park, visit www. ontarioparks.com or call 1-888-668-7275.

Reservations can be made 5 months in advance of your arrival date for camping and up to 5 days in advance for day use.

Scan this code to make a reservation:

Campground Rules

• No excessive noise, profanity, or insulting language at any time.

• All trees (living or dead) and plants are protected.

• Alcoholic beverages are permitted on registered campsites only.

• Campsite must be kept clean and sanitary at all times –littering is prohibited.

• Fires must be set in firepits only – do not move the firepit.

• One vehicle and 3 (three) pieces of shelter equipment per campsite.

• Pets must be leashed at all times and are not permitted in the day use area.

• Maximum 6 (six) people per campsite.

• Possession of fireworks (including sparklers) and firearms is prohibited.

Arrival Process For The 2024 Camping Season At Bonnechere

Please ensure you complete the pre-registration process before arriving. Before you head out, log in to your account, and add in all your details before arriving at the park. For more info on pre-registration, visit www.ontarioparks.com/parksblog/preregistercamping/

Upon arrival to Bonnechere, you may proceed directly to your campsite after 2PM. If you have not completed the pre-registration, you make check in at the park store.

Campers must have a digital or paper copy of their reservation while staying in the park. A printed permit is not required on campsite posts or on vehicle dashboards.

Your camping reservation includes one vehicle. Additional vehicles require a permit and can be purchased at the park store. All additional vehicles must park in additional vehicle parking lots throughout the park or in the main day use parking lot as only one vehicle is permitted on each campsite.

Day Use at Bonnechere

Reservations are required for day use.

• Buy in advance online. You can buy daily vehicle permits up to 5 days at participating parks. Buying in advance guarantees your spot for the day.

• Seasonal permit holder? If you have a seasonal permit and want to visit one of the participating parks that sells daily vehicle permits in advance, you will need to reserve your spot online to guarantee entry.

Arriving at the park:

• Proceed directly to day use area. Check-in is not necessary unless you do not have a permit. Permits can be purchased at the park store.

Be prepared to verify your permit by:

• Showing your confirmation (either on your device or a printed copy) upon request.

• Printing your permit and leave it on your dashboard. For more information, visit www.ontarioparks.com/dayuse

Check In / Check Out Times For Campsites

You must vacate your campsite by 2:00 pm sharp on your date of departure. Check in time is 2:00 pm for the next campers to your campsite. There is limited time for park staff to clean campsites prior to the next arrival; please be prompt and on time in vacating your campsite. After you have vacated your campsite, you may remain in the park for day use until 10:00 pm.

Check In / Check Out Times For Roofed Accommodations

The check in time for your roofed accommodation is 4:00 pm. If you arrive sooner than the check in time, you may use the day use area while you wait.

You must vacate your cabin or cottage by 10:00 am sharp on your date of departure. After you have vacated your cabin or cottage, you may remain in the park for day use until 10:00 pm.

Disposing Wastewater

All black wastewater in holding tanks is to be held and disposed of at the trailer sanitation station. Grey water such as dish water, can be disposed of at the trailer sanitation station or in the vault privies. Please do not dump your grey water on or around your campsite as it can pose health, environmental and aesthetic issues.

2024 EVENTS CALENDAR

Top photo: Monica Maika Bottom left: Lesley Wilkinson Bottom inset: Rob Stimpson

Garbage / Recycling / Organics

PLEASE SORT YOUR WASTE AND RECYCLING!

Please deposit all campsite waste, recycling and compost at the waste management area that is located off the main park road. Do not use the garbage cans at the beach for campsite waste. Refer to the list of waste, recyclables, and organics in this information guide or on your campsite post.

Waste should be disposed of daily to avoid unwanted visits from wildlife.

All firewood bags are to be disposed of in the garbage as they are not recyclable. Please do not leave firewood bags on your campsite post.

Smoke Free & Vape Free Outdoor Spaces

No smoking and/or vaping of tobacco or cannabis (recreational or medical) products at designated areas in the park. These areas include the day use and beach, playground, main comfort station, mini comfort station, park store, park admin building and all park trails and paths. Smoking and/or vaping of tobacco or cannabis (recreational or medical) is prohibited in all park buildings including the cabins and cottage.

Laundry Machines

Coin operated washers and dryers are available for use at the main comfort station.

Change is available at the park store.

Wash - $2.00 Dry - $2.00. Loonies Only.

Seasonal Daily Vehicle Permits

Summer and annual permits have always offered the best value for frequent users to Ontario Parks. These passes provide unlimited day use of all Ontario Parks. Please note that summer and annual permits do not guarantee park entry at parks with limited capacities. Be sure to reserve your spot in advance of arrival for day use entry at parks selling advance daily vehicle permits to guarantee entry. Seasonal permits can be purchased at the park store.

Valid dates 2024 seasonal permits outlined below:

2024 Annual Permit Valid until December 31, 2024

$111.87 tax included

2024 Summer Permit Valid between April 1- November 30, 2024

$84.75 tax included

Radio Free & Generator Free Campsites

Visitors to Bonnechere Provincial Park can enjoy a radio free and generator free zone. Campsites consisting of site numbers 201 – 215 are radio free and generator free. No operation of radios or other devices that amplify sound are allowed. The use of these devices with personal headphones is permitted. No generators are allowed at any time.

Customer Comments

We would like to hear from you! Please visit www.ontarioparks. com/contact to leave us your comments. If it is an issue that needs immediate attention, please visit the park store. You may also email the park directly at bonnecherepark@ontario.ca.

AED (Automated External Defibrillator)

There are 2 AED’s located within Bonnechere Park. If you have an emergency, the locations are as follows: #1 Park Admin Building (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week)

Located on the outside of the building, to the right of the front door.

#2 Park Store (available during store hours)

Located inside the Davenport Centre foyer, to the left of the double door entrance.

Camper Messages

Park staff will endeavor to ensure messages received will be delivered to your campsite at our earliest convenience; however, we make no time guarantee.

Pets

Visitors with pets have many responsibilities.

• Pets must remain on a leash at all times and be no longer than 2 meters in length.

• Pick up after your pet.

• Ensure they do not cause excessive noise or disturb others or wildlife.

• Pets are not allowed anywhere on the beach. This includes the sand and inside or outside the buoy line.

• Pets wanting to take a swim can do so at the boat launch area.

• Please refer to the park map on the back. The grey shaded areas indicate where pets are not allowed.

Extension Cords

30 AMP and 15 AMP extension cords are available for rent from the park store for a fee of $5.00 per night. A $100.00 deposit is required.

Comfort Station Cleaning Times

The main comfort station will be closed each day from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm and again at 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm so staff can complete a thorough clean and disinfection. During these closure times, you can use the flush toilets located at mini comfort station in the sandy flats campground or the vault toilets located throughout the park.

The mini comfort station located in the sandy flats campground will be closed each day from 12:30 pm to 1:15 pm and again at 6:45 pm to 7:30 pm so staff can complete a thorough clean and disinfection. During these closure times, you can use the flush toilets located at main comfort station or the vault toilets located throughout the park.

Firewood

Firewood can be purchased at the park store. Dead wood and branches are not to be collected from the bush for burning. All plants, living or dead, are protected. Campfires must remain the firepit and extinguished if unattended. In the event of a fire ban, staff will notify campers by posting signage. Up to date alerts can always be found at www.ontarioparks.com/alerts

Roofed Accomodations

Bonnechere Provincial Park offers beautiful, roofed accommodations for those who like to have a different type of park experience. Four rustic cabins are all located on the banks of the Bonnechere River. One cottage is on the lakeside of Round Lake. For more details, ask park staff or visit www.ontarioparks.com/roofedaccommodations.

A complimentary amount of firewood is provided with your reservation. Restocking of firewood is not offered. Additional firewood can be purchased at the park store.

Cellular Reception & Pay Phones

Cell reception varies depending on your provider and can be intermittent throughout the park. The best location for cell signal is at the day use / beach area.

Pay phones are available for use in front of the park store for those who need to make a phone call.

Generator Usage

We understand that the use of a generator while camping is sometimes required for charging batteries etc. and we also understand that it can be a very disrupting noise for neighbouring campsites that are looking for a quiet camping experience.

Generator usage is permitted from: 11:00 am - 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm ONLY

Generator use (without exemption) outside of permitted times is an offence.

Sandy flats campground is a radio free and generator free zone.

Alerts

Wondering about a fire ban or other alerts? Be sure to check our alerts page for up-to-date information. Visit www.ontarioparks.com/parks/ Bonnechere/alerts.

Blacklegged Tick Ixodes scapularis on a blade of grass.

These Blacklegged Ticks Ixodes scapularis, are found on a wide range of hosts including mammals, birds and reptiles. Blacklegged Ticks Ixodes scapularis are known to transmit the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi which causes Lyme disease, to humans and animals during feeding, when they insert their mouth parts into the skin of a host, and slowly take in the nutrient-rich host blood. Photo by: Jim Gathany, CDC

Ticks and Lyme Disease

Do ticks and Lyme disease make you wary of going outdoors? By being aware of ticks and understanding the role they play in spreading Lyme and other diseases you are taking the first step to protect yourself and your loved ones.

There are many different species of ticks and not all of them carry Lyme disease. The most common tick you may encounter is the American Dog Tick, which does not carry Lyme disease. The only tick that carries Lyme disease in Ontario is the Blacklegged (Deer) Tick, Ixodes Scapularis. Both ticks can be found in wooded areas or tall grass habitats. In Ontario, Blacklegged ticks are most commonly found in rural areas along the north shores of Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, and the St. Lawrence River. Blacklegged ticks are known to feed on migratory birds and as a result, they can be transported throughout the province. Therefore, while the potential is lower the further north you go, it is possible for people to encounter Blacklegged ticks, or to be infected with Lyme disease from the bite of an infected Blacklegged tick, almost anywhere in the province.

Ticks feed slowly, and an infected tick must feed on a person for at least 24 hours to infect them with the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. Because of this delay, prompt detection and removal of ticks is one of the key methods of preventing Lyme disease. If you become infected from a tick bite, symptoms usually begin within 1 - 2 weeks, but can take as long as one month to begin. The “classic” symptom is a bulls-eye rash that can develop anywhere on the body; however, this rash may not occur in all cases. Early symptoms of Lyme disease can include flu-like symptoms such as fever, headaches, stiff neck, jaw pain, and sore muscles. If untreated, problems with the heart, nervous system, and joints can occur months or years later. Lyme disease is easily treated in the early stages so seek medical attention if you feel unwell.

When you are out in tick habitat you can better protect yourself by taking a few precautions:

1. Wear long sleeves and tuck your pants into your socks.

2. Wear light coloured clothing so you can detect ticks before they attach.

3. Use insect repellent containing “Deet” (please follow manufacturer’s directions). Apply it to your exposed skin and outer clothing.

4. Conduct a tick check when you come in from outdoors. Look on your clothes, body, and pets. Pay close attention to your groin, scalp, and armpits.

5. If you find a tick on your body, properly remove it and place it in a container. Visit www.etick.ca for tick identification. Additionally, you may contact your family doctor for questions on Lyme disease and follow-up. By following these simple suggestions, you can have a safe and enjoyable time exploring Bonnechere Provincial Park.

For more information, please consult the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long Term Care’s website: ontario.ca/page/lyme-disease

FOUND A TICK?

DO

• Use fine point tweezers

• Grasp the tick as close to your skin as possible

• Gently pull the tick straight out

• Disinfect the bite area with rubbing alcohol or soap and water

• Save tick (alive if possible) in a jar, with a piece of damp paper towel for identification (www.etick.ca)

• Watch for symptoms and seek medical attention if you feel unwell, if the tick has been attached for more than 24 hours, or if you cannot safely remove the tick.

DON’T

• Grasp around bloated belly and squeeze the tick

• Use a match, heat or chemicals to try and remove it

• Twist the tick when pulling it out

PARK VISITORS!

Help keep our parks clean by disposing garbage correctly.

Dispose garbage at designated garbage and recycling areas. If you find a full container, don’t leave it where wildlife can access it. Find a different container with room or contact park staff for advice.

We appreciate your efforts to help protect these beautiful spaces.

FIREWOOD – $10/BAG KINDLING – $7/BAG

Available at the Park Store

Firewood bags are to be disposed of in the garbage.

Discourage uninvited guests

Bears are a�racted to anything that looks or smells like food. Items like unwashed utensils, food packaging, toiletries and trash are tasty treats for bears.

Be Bear Wise when camping:

Don’t leave food or scented items una�ended on your campsite.

Pack and store these items in your vehicle, out of sight, with windows closed.

Clean food prepara�on areas promptly a�er use. Rou�nely take your garbage to the park’s waste depot.

Let's all be Bear W ise.

Always call 911 in an emergency Call 1-866-514 -2327 to report a sighting

ontario.ca/bearwise

Containers can be mixed together but must remain separate from paper.

- Aerosol cans (empty)

- Aluminum plates

- Cardboard cans (frozen juice, peanuts, hot chocolate)

- Cartons (milk, juice, cream)

- Clam Shells (plastic produce & baker containers)

- Egg cartons (plastic)

- Glass bottles & jars (non-refundable)

- Juice boxes

- Plastic bottles, jugs, tubs & lids

- Pop/juice cans

- Steel cans

- Yogurt/pudding/applesauce cups

PAPER/CARDBOARD RECYCLING

Paper can be mixed together but must remain separate from containers.

- Books - Boxboard (cereal, tissue)

- Brown paper bags

- Catalogues and magazines

- Corrugated cardboard

- Envelopes

- Frozen food boxed

- Greeting cards

- Junk mail

- Newspaper & flyers (including glossy)

- Paper (coloured & white)

- Paper towel rolls (empty)

- Toilet paper rolls (empty)

- Tissue paper

- Wrapper paper (non-metallic)

GARBAGE ORGANICS

- Plastic bags: bread, produce, outside milk bag, grocery

- Styrofoam, candles, ceramics

-Candy bar wrappers, cereal/cracker box liner, chip bags, cigarette butts

-Cookie bags. crayons, dishes

-Diapers/Wipes, disposable mop sheets

- Dog/cat food bags, plastic wrap, rope

- Feminine hygiene products

- Firewood bags

- Foil (pouches/packets), toys, straws

- Food packaging (deli meat, hot dog, wrappers, etc.), pet waste.

Plastic cutlery, sandwich bags, rags & unusable clothing

- Fruits, vegetable scraps

- Meat, shellfish, fish products

- Pasta, bread, cereal

- Dairy products, egg shells

- Coffee grounds, filters, tea bags

- Tissues, napkins, soiled paper towels (used without cleaning products)

- Candies, cookies, cake

- Baking ingredients, spices

- Plants including soil

Visit our park store or shop from the comfort of your home at shop.OntarioParks.com LOOKING FOR SOUVENIRS?

Recreational use of drones in provincial parks is not permitted.

Recreational use of drones in provincial parks is not permitted.

Come in to check out our newly renovated Park Store!

• Fresh Brewed Coffee

• Ice-cream, Drinks and Snacks

• Frozen Food and Meat

• Local Vendor Merchandise

• Clothing, Puzzles, Games

• Beach Toys, Books, Souvenirs

• Ontario Parks Merchandise

• Toiletries, Camping Supplies

• Worms, Fishing Tackle

• Ice, Firewood

• Canoe, Kayak, Paddleboard, Corcl Rentals

• Tackleshare and PFD Loan Program

• Waterwheels, All Terrain Wheelchair

Park Store Hours of Operation

NEW E-MAIL ADDRESS: bonnechere@ontario.ca

Do you love spending time in nature? Do you care about making people happy and healthy? Interested working in a provincial park for the summer?

Visit OntarioParks.com to learn about applying for authorization for commercial or research purposes.

Visit OntarioParks.com to learn about applying for authorization for commercial or research purposes.

Visit OntarioParks.com/careers for more information. Apply early for the best chance to join us next season.

The easy-to-navigate Pimosedà app provides interpretive trail content in English, French and Anishinabemowin. Whether you plan to visit Bonnechere Provincial Park in person or prefer to do so online, these virtual tours are sure to enhance your appreciation for the natural and cultural heritage of the Little Bonnechere River.

Currently we have two trails at Bonnechere Park that are supported by virtual content. This means that if you are able to visit the Nàdòbìkana and Nòpiming FIT Trails in person, you can enhance your experience by accessing interpretive text and images along the way.

Pimosedà App

When translated from Anishinabemowin, Pimosedà means walk with us. This custom app has been designed to present enhanced interpretive trail content in three languages: English, French and Anishinabemowin, the language of the Algonquin People.

Installing the Pimosedà App

The Pimosedà App is available for FREE download for use on iPhone and Android mobile phones.

If you are planning to visit Bonnechere Park, we suggest you install the app from home. As an added feature, the app is also available for download at the trailhead of each of the two new FIT trails.

As you navigate the trails, you will be able to browse the enhanced interpretive content offline, so no need to worry about WiFi access along the trails.

The Friends of Bonnechere Parks (FBP) was incorporated as a not-forprofit organization in 1982 to provide financial and physical support to Bonnechere and Bonnechere River Provincial Parks. Our mandate is to foster and support the cultural and natural heritage of the Little Bonnechere River watershed.

To do this, we have sponsored a variety of activities and events over the years from publishing several books to participating in archaeological explorations to inviting campers and Park visitors to enjoy fun, active and educational programs for all ages such as programs geared to enhance school curricula, Healthy Parks Healthy People, Archaeology Week, our annual Wolf Howl and music evenings with local musicians, etc.

If you are unable to visit Bonnechere Park, we invite you to install the Pimosedà app on your mobile device and take a virtual tour from the convenience of your home.

Pimosedà

App Features

• 3-language interpretive text

• coloured illustrations and photos

• suggested activities reflecting the topic

• Anishinabemowin words and definitions

Download the Pimosedà App: https://bonnecherepark.on.ca/trails/virtual-tours/

You can help us to continue supporting the Parks’ activities by:

• Becoming a member of the Friends of Bonnechere Parks. Membership allows you to receive notices of up-coming events, special activities, and participation at our Annual General Meetings. Membership forms are available in the Davenport Centre/Park Store or check out our website for more information.

• Volunteering for activities such as park spring clean-ups, trail maintenance, helping in presentation of educational/school programs, etc.

• Purchasing Friends merchandise in the Park store. All profits from the sale of apparel, books published by the Friends, mugs, etc. go to supporting programming in the Parks and beyond.

• Make a donation: either in our donation boxes located at various locations in the park or at sponsored events, by mail or electronically.

Walks of the Little Bonnechere: Nòpiming FIT Trail

noh-pi-ming

Translation from Anishinabemowin: an inland trail; in the woods or in the bush

One Community

A quiet walk in the woods is the perfect opportunity to connect with the delicate balance of nature. Depending on the season, if we take the time to look and listen with intent, such a walk can reveal much activity — some obvious, some scarcely noticed, but all reflecting the will to survive.

Spring is often the busiest time along a woodland trail. Birds flit among the tree branches, many calling repeatedly, and in some cases almost constantly, to attract a mate or warn off intruders. Mice and shrews scurry by in the underbrush in search of food. A deer may browse in an opening in the canopy, where sunlight reaches the forest floor and flowers bloom, attracting the insects that pollinate medicinal plants.

All forest plants and animals are part of an ecological community that has existed for thousands of years. These gifts from Mother Earth sustained the Algonquin People as they lived on Turtle Island allowing them to survive solely off the land.

But in recent times, many of these species — and thus the lifestyle of the Alqonquin People — are threatened by the use of pesticides that have had a damaging effect on the populations of insect pollinators. Urban development is fragmenting and depleting natural habitats, and the careless introduction of non-native species has disturbed natural ecosystems, often beyond repair.

It’s not just the lifestyle of the Algonquin People that is at risk. We must all do our part to mitigate destructive impacts on our ecosystem, “…for the day there is no room for all creatures is the day there is no room for us.” ~ Robert Whiteduck, Golden Lake First Nation 1997

The Algonquin People

We can all benefit from a better understanding of Indigenous perspective by acknowledging that this land belonged and still belongs to the Algonquin People.

The Algonquin People are the original custodians of Turtle Island, because they grew familiar with the land and used its resources wisely. The oral history that sustained them was passed down through the generations by means of a wampum belt called The Prophecy of the Seven Fires.

These original people knew not to control Nature, but to be part of it — equal to the plant and animal kingdoms that sustained them. They survived solely as hunters and gatherers, eating only what they asked for from Mother Earth: fresh berries and medicinal plants, native animals, birds and fish, and clean water to drink. And always they gave thanks — migwech!

For thousands of years, this lifestyle sustained the original people. However, in the time of the Fourth Fire, the Algonquin People were warned about the coming of the light-skinned race, whose hearts would be filled with greed for the riches of the land.

In the time of the Fifth Fire, it was said that the Algonquin People were confused. The Europeans promised ‘great joy and salvation’ if the Algonquin People abandoned their sacred teachings. On the other hand, the prophet warned that if they chose to abandon their traditional ways, they would struggle for many generations to come.

By the Sixth Fire, the words of the prophet rang true. The children were taken away to be ‘civilized’ in residential schools. Elders had no reason for living — they had lost their purpose. To prevent complete loss, the traditional teachings were hidden out of sight and almost out of memory.

150 years ago, life for Algonquin People was not very good. In trying to adapt to the

HIGHLIGHTS:

- Land Acknowledgment

- Medicine Wheel

- Invasive Species

- Plants and Pollinators

- Hunting Practices

RATING: Easy

TYPE: Out and back

DISTANCE: 0.8 km

TIME: 30 to 45 minutes

SURFACE: Limestone screenings

UTM: 18T 299044 E 5059322 N

From the accessible parking area near the gate house at the entrance to Bonnechere Park, pick up the trailhead.

Footprints In Time (FIT) Teaching

Take twelve giant steps for 12,000 years.

Cut the last step in half.

This half-step marks the short time Europeans have been on this land compared to the Algonquin People.

~ Migwech to Algonquin Elder Dorothy Commanda for sharing this traditional teaching with us in 1997.

colonist’s way of life, they had lost their way. Struggles included food and housing insecurity, addiction and disease. Many of these challenges are still present today.

In the time of the Seventh FIre, circa 1978, a new people began to emerge. These people will retrace the steps of their ancestors to find what was left along the way.

This is a time of healing and reconciliation. If we all do our part, we will all succeed.

~ Migwech to Algonquin Elder Aimee Bailey for guiding us in seeking the Algonquin names for these two new accessible FIT Trails.

Prophecy of the Seven Fires by Silvia Tennisco. Credit: www.algonquinway.ca

Skywoman Descending Great Turtle Island by Arnold Jacobs (Onondaga), 1981.

Meandering Oxbows, Erosion and Park Changes – What they mean for park visitors!

Erosion is a geological process where soil is worn away and moved to another location, usually by natural forces like wind and water. This is especially common with winding, oxbow rivers like the Bonnechere River. At each twist and turn, the water current along the outside of the corner wears away the riverbank faster than the inside corner. As the water continues its journey, this soil and sediment flows with it and is deposited on the inside of the next corner. Because of this constant erosion and deposition, the river is always changing.

The erosion caused our Riverwatch cabin to sit precariously close to the edge of the river. For your safety, we have relocated the Riverwatch cabin to across the road from its original location.

Erosion can be sped-up from human impact. Have you ever stepped down a riverbank to get closer to the water and sent a cascade of stones and sand tumbling down into the water? Over time, this increase in erosion causes our campsites along the river to shrink and some of our trails to teeter on the edge.

Staff will be working hard this year to stabilize these banks to keep your favourite campsites (and ours too ;)) and walking trails sizeable and safe. You may see staff planting native trees and shrubs along unstable sections. The roots of these plants will help hold the soil in place making the shorelines sturdier. You may also notice signs and barriers asking you to stay on trails or limiting your access to the water from campsites. Please respect these signs (and the park staff who enforce them) to keep our park from eroding away!

Bringing firewood when you travel to or from your favourite provincial park may seem harmless but can spread invasive species such as insects, plants and diseases.

Many of these species are hidden in the wood and are difficult to detect.

Millions of trees have already been infected. Help us reduce the spread by;

• Leaving firewood at home

• Purchasing kiln-dried firewood where available

Ontario Parks Beach Posting

Fact Sheet

Recreational water quality is routinely monitored at Ontario Parks designated beaches. Samples are tested at Public Health Ontario Laboratories for Escherichia coli (E.coli), an organism found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals.

Water Quality Factors

Recreational water quality is influenced by a number of factors, and can change between sampling periods. Influences include:

• Heavy rainfall

• Large numbers of water fowl

• High winds or wave activity

• Large number of swimmers

Beach Posting

Ontario Parks staff post signage at beaches (example to right) when E.coli levels in the water exceed provincial standards. Signage is placed to warn bathers that the beach water may be unsafe for swimming. Swimming in beaches that are posted for elevated bacterial levels may cause:

• Skin infections/rash

• Ear, eye, nose and throat infections

• Gastrointestinal illness (if water is consumed)

Beach postings are based on E.coli counts in beach water samples taken within the past 24 hours, and are removed when test results show bacterial levels are acceptable.

Beach Closures

Ontario Parks staff may physically close beaches using caution tape and information signage in the instance that a health hazard exists that could present a health and safety risk to visitors (blue-green algae for example).

Beach water quality can change at any time and guests should avoid swimming during and after storms, floods, heavy rainfall, or in the presence of large numbers of waterfowl.

How you can help

Ontario Parks guests can help maintain our beach water quality by following these simple guidelines:

• Do not feed birds or other wildlife

• Leave nothing behind- dispose of all garbage/food waste

• Use designated pet beaches when swimming with your dog – pets are not permitted in Ontario Parks public beaches

• Do not let children swim in soiled diapers

• Do not use shampoos or soaps in lake water

Water Safety – It’s Your Responsibility

1. There are no lifeguards on our beaches. Water safety is your responsibility at all times.

• Buying local

If you move firewood out of an area regulated for a quarantined pest without prior approval from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) you could face penalties of up to $50,000 and/or prosecution. For more information on firewood movement restrictions and the latest updates about emerald ash borer and other regulated pests, please visit www.inspection.gc.ca or contact the CFIA at 1-800-4422342

2. Take the steps to be safe around water. Learning how to swim and water survival techniques help keep us all safe.

3. Always supervise children and non-swimmers by watching them when they are in or around the water.

4. Ensure children and non-swimmers wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) or lifejacket in or around the water.

5. Swim in only designated swimming areas. When the water is rough, or conditions are not clear – STAY OUT! Never swim alone. You should always swim with a buddy.

6. Using a floatie? Offshore winds often blow inflatables out into dangerous waters. Ensure inflatable rafts or toys are used in shallow water areas only and pay attention to changing wind conditions.

7. Be responsible. Avoid substance use when involved in water-related recreational activities.

8. Protect your neck. Never dive into shallow or murky water.

9. If you suspect a drowning or any other type of water emergency, call 911 and contact the park office immediately.

Photo by Kelly Draves

Summary of Provincial Park Offences

There is one basic rule in Ontario Parks: Have respect and consideration for your fellow visitors and the park environment. The following table lists some of the more common laws enforced in provincial parks. Under the Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Act, 2006, the registered permit holder is responsible for the conduct of all campsite occupants and could be charged with an offence based on the actions of the occupants of the registered campsite. The Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Act, 2006 and other legislation governing behaviour in provincial parks can be reviewed at provincial park offices and on the e-Laws website at www.ontario.ca/laws. These laws are enforced by provincial park wardens who have all the power and authority of a member of the Ontario Provincial Police within a provincial park. Many of the listed offences could result in eviction from a provincial park. Evicted visitors are prohibited from re-entering any provincial park for a period of 72 hours. Minimum fines listed below include court costs and the victim fine surcharge.

Did you know there are over 10,000 known species living in provincial parks?

How do we know this? From iNaturalist sightings uploaded by visitors just like you!

☑ Want to help us protect the living things that make parks beautiful?

☑ Do you have a budding scientist or nature enthusiast in your group?

☑ Have you ever wanted to learn about plants and animals living in the park you’re visiting?

It’s as simple as

Snapping a picture of a living thing

Visit iNaturalist.ca or download the app.

Uploading it to the app ✓

Letting iNaturalist’s algorithms and experts help identify what you saw

This free app helps park staff, scientists, and your community protect nature.

Try it today and help protect the places you love to visit.

DISCOVERY

STOP! Answer these questions to have your camping experience changed forever!

Yes or no, do you like:

Exploring

Feeling at peace in nature

Animals

History

Art

Campfires

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you need to give a Discovery program a try!

Our park Discovery staff create interactive and engaging programs that are great for all ages.

From art or exploring programs, to campfires and nature wellness, each program shares the stories of the exceptional plants, animals, and history the park protects.

Ask park staff for more information about the activities happening during your visit.

LOCAL SERVICES