All GRCA properties are closed to the public, but signs and police tape aren't stopping people from using them

It seems people are ignoring the fact that Grand River Conservation Area properties are off limits.

“Unfortunately, we continue to receive reports that people are accessing GRCA owned and managed properties in different areas of the watershed,” said Lisa Stocco, manager of communications with the GRCA.

“Our staff have been working to physically close our properties and post signage as much as possible. We have been actively asking that people respect the closures through our news releases, social media channels and when responding to numerous inquiries.”

Despite signage and yellow police tape at the entrances to the trails, there continues to be numerous cars parked at the side of the road with people using GRCA trails, including the GORBA trail leading out to Guelph Lake Conservation Area, The Smith Property trail off Watson Road South and Starkey Hill on Arkell Road.

OPP officers were seen on location on Arkell Road over the Easter weekend, when the trails were being used by many people judging by the cars parked at the side of the road.

Const. Cheri Rockefeller of the Wellington County OPP said officers were warning people about parking on the shoulder of busy roads and about the fact they were trespassing by using trails that were clearly marked as closed.

Rockefeller said one ticket was handed out.

Stocco said GRCA staff is also trying to educate members of the public it finds on GRCA property.

“Our staff are also educating people of the closures when encountered on the properties, and are actively working with our municipal partners and police services where appropriate,” she said.

“That said, those who choose to ignore the closures are, in fact, trespassing and charges may be laid.”

Recreational amenities and campgrounds are considered non-essential workplaces and therefore closed by the province since April 3.

No regular maintenance or regular hazard management is being performed on GRCA owned and managed properties at this time.

“Many of the same staff members who have the responsibility of managing hazards on our properties, also have the responsibility of inspecting, operating and maintaining our flood management infrastructure, which is vital to the safety of many watershed residents. For all these reasons, GRCA owned and managed properties, including conservation areas, trails and other natural areas are closed to the public until further notice,” Stocco said.

The GRCA has a COVID-19 FAQ page, where they have posted answers to questions they continue to receive from the public.