Posted On: Thursday, November 2, 2023
Vandalism at Clendenan Conservation Area Reported to the OPP
Staff at Grey Sauble Conservation Authority (GSCA) are shocked and perplexed after being informed by a resident that the new wayfinding signage at Clendenan Conservation Area in the Town of the Blue Mountains had been vandalized. Many of GSCA’s properties will be getting new wayfinding signage to help visitors safely navigate the trails. Clendenan Conservation Area was prioritized following an incident where a group of people became lost on this property and after several complaints of trespassing from neighbouring landowners. GSCA staff and Town of the Blue Mountains' Mayor and staff met on site following these complaints and determined that trail signage would be a positive step forward.
The vandalism involved the destruction of six wayfinding signs and posts, which were ripped up from the ground, broken, and pieces thrown into the forest and river. Unfortunately, this is not the first act of vandalism at Clendenan Conservation Area. Yellow trail blazes have been painted over, signs reminding visitors to keep their dogs on a leash have been destroyed, and a trail counter that was installed to help estimate property usage has been consistently tampered with, limiting its effectiveness.
GSCA’s Manager of Conservation Lands stated that “GSCA staff are feeling very defeated with the news that these brand-new wayfinding signs were vandalized or outright stolen. Implementing this project was truly a team effort, between design, printing, and installation. An event like this is a major blow to morale.”
GSCA would like to remind people that Authority-owned properties are privately owned, but visitors from both near and far are welcome to enjoy them respectfully. Property taxes and many of the capital improvements including signage is paid for using self-generated revenue from parking fees. Clendenan Conservation Area does not currently have any fees associated with its use.
GSCA has reported the vandalism to the OPP and will be working with them to prevent unlawful activity on this property.
If you have any information about this crime that might help identify those involved or if you witness vandalism on any GSCA property, please contact the OPP.
For more information:
Rebecca Anthony
Manager of Conservation Lands
r.anthony@greysauble.on.ca
519-376-3076
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