CLOCA conservation areas open today

Central Lake Ontario Conservation (CLOCA) is re-opening its eight conservation areas effective Wednesday, May 20 with COVID-19 mitigation measures in place.

All conservation areas and adjoining parking lots, including the Purple Woods Conservation Area in Oshawa, will re-open for trail use only, according to a CLOCA press release.

All picnic areas, washrooms, buildings and on-site facilities will remain closed until further notice.

CLOCA is requesting visits be limited to two hours, as a courtesy to others, to avoid overcrowded conditions.

“CLOCA wants everyone to benefit from the opportunity to experience the physical and mental health opportunities associated with fresh air and exercise, and a short stay is the best way to help achieve this,” the release reads.

Regular parking fees will apply, however cash is no longer accepted at parking metres, only VISA and Mastercard.

Visitors need to respect the rules and direction from the province and the Durham Region health department to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

“Even in outdoor environments, the need to practice social/physical distancing still applies,” the release continues.

Visitors need to remember to wash hands regularly, visit in groups of no larger than five people, and to stay home if sick.

CLOCA is also reminding visitors to pack-out all waste and keep pets on a leash, no longer than two metres in length, at all times.

The conservation areas will be open starting May 20 from dawn to dusk.

For more information, visit www.cloca.com.