NEWS RELEASE
GRAND RIVER CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
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Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the GRCA has made the decision to cancel its day camps for the summer of 2020.
The GRCA continues to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic, and follow the guidance of federal and provincial governments and public health authorities in Ontario. On June 2, 2020, the provincial government released its public health guidelines for the safe operation of day camps in Ontario.
Upon review of the guidelines, the GRCA has determined that the restrictions would significantly impact its ability to deliver quality day camp programs in the current COVID-19 environment.
“This was a very difficult decision,” says Tracey Ryan, Manager of Environmental Education and Restoration. “We know how much our campers and families enjoy the nature activities, games and outdoor experiences offered at our camps, but the health and safety of our campers and staff remain our highest priority.”
On March 16, the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) closed all of its nature centres to the public and cancelled its March Break Camps. All events, like birthday parties, were also cancelled. The GRCA’s day camp programs were developed pre-pandemic, and include large gatherings both indoor and outdoor, as well as in-person interactive activities.
“Our traditional summer camps would not be the same under COVID-19 restrictions. It’s difficult to imagine a nature camp without a campfire circle, interactive and team activities and adventures,” explains Tracey Ryan.
“The GRCA has a low-risk threshold when it comes to the health, safety and wellbeing of our participants. Parents expect a welcoming and safe environment for their children at our nature centres. While we wish we could welcome everyone back to camp this summer, we must err on the side of health and safety for all the right reasons.”
All registrants affected by cancelled programming will be receiving a full refund in the coming weeks, and are being contacted directly.
The GRCA encourages families to visit its Connect with Nature at Home webpage for a list of nature activities they can do together at home or in their local park, while practicing appropriate physical distancing measures.
At this time, all GRCA nature centres and their surrounding property remain closed to the public and all events are cancelled until further notice.
For complete details about which GRCA properties are open and closed to the public, and what activities are permissible, please visit www.grandriver.ca/COVID19-FAQ.
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